The man was stopped by officers in Culnane Place on Tuesday morning and when asked what he was doing responded with a number of implausible explanations.

Further checks by police revealed the man had already been issued a number of cautions for disregarding new laws brought into effect during the COVID-19 crisis that place strict limitations on the reasons people may lawfully leave their homes.

Chifley Police District Acting Superintendent David Abercrombie said officers were only handing out fines as a last resort, preferring to warn and educate the public.

But when it came to repeat offenders, Acting Supt Abercrombie said police had no alternative.

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"Wherever possible our officers are using their discretion," he said.

"But when we are faced with repeat offenders, those who are showing an absolute disregard for the restrictions in place, then we are taking action accordingly."

Acting Supt Abercrombie said the penalty notice issued on Tuesday morning was given because the man had received several warnings and had shown complete disregard for the restrictions in place.

"He had been previously cautioned about non-compliance and it left police with no alternative," he said.

Acting Supt Abercrombie said it was the second infringement notice handed out by Bathurst police since the new restrictions came into place.

"We issued the first one about a week ago to a gentleman who had returned from overseas and who was refusing to comply with directions to isolate," he said.

"In Bathurst we've had 70 or so people in isolation after returning home from overseas.

"We've been doing compliance checks on them all (to ensure they are isolating) and, apart from that one man, all of them have been excellent."

Acting Supt Abercrombie said everyone was obliged to do the right thing.

"Most of the people we've had dealings with received a warning and, from that point on, have complied with the restrictions," he said.

"It's everyone's responsibility."