It does seem like an abuse of power, but there are mechanics to deal with that in-game. Protest your fine, and if your entire realm thinks that is the way to do things, then it may be time to look at some of the other realms (with or without your region).
I consider it a feature (not a bug). A power-struggle over ownership of essential resources. If your banker/rural lord is being disrespectful and rude about it or something, that may be a different matter.
