Nova Scotia drivers are being warned they could be slapped with a $237.50 fine if their licence plate is unreadable, as authorities continue to spot plates with peeling paint.

The peeling problem dates to 2008 with plates in the ENG001 to ETA499 range. Service Nova Scotia isn't certain what's behind the problem.

"Ever since working here I've really started to notice a ridiculous amount of peeling plates around the city," said Carley Sampson, a spokesperson for Service Nova Scotia.

CBC News first reported on the problem in 2014. At that time, around 1,500 peeling plates in the ENG001 to ETA499 range had been returned and replaced at no cost.

More than 85,000 Nova Scotia plates were distributed in 2008 and about 17,000 have been replaced for multiple reasons, including paint peel.

If your licence plate is damaged and illegible, it can be replaced free of charge through Access Nova Scotia.

Even if your plates aren't peeling, drivers are still responsible to ensure it can be clearly read by other motorists and law enforcement agencies, according to the Motor Vehicle Act. This also means keeping them clear of debris and making sure they are securely fastened to the vehicle.