Safe Boating Rules & Regulations

Q. Why do boaters now need to have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?

A. Recreational boating is a favourite pastime in Canada with between seven and nine million people enjoying Canadian waterways each year. Sadly, not every boating excursion is a return trip: Over 200 boating fatalities occur each year along with an estimated 6,000 non-fatal accidents – most of them preventable. The general public and pleasure boaters had expressed concern that anyone of any age could operate a watercraft without having any prior boating experience. The Pleasure Craft Operator Card regulations are an attempt to reduce the number of boating related accidents & fatalities. The goal of the program is to encourage boaters to evaluate their capabilities and limits, to prepare themselves adequately before heading out, and to be responsible on the water.

Q. Who needs the Pleasure Craft Operator Card and when?

A. All operators of powered watercraft used for recreational purposes within Canada will eventually require the card.The following three groups of boaters require the card IMMEDIATELY:

• All operators of any powered watercraft under 4m in length (13.1ft)
• All operators of PWC's (i.e.: sea-doos and jet skis)
• All operators of any powered watercraft born after April 1, 1983

As of September 15, 2009 all boaters will be required to have the Pleasure Craft Operator Card in order to operate a powered watercraft. There is no grandfather clause or age exemption – this law applies to all boaters. Powered watercraft includes watercraft fitted with any size motor – even a trolling motor.

Q. What is the difference between a Pleasure Craft Operator Card and a Pleasure Craft License?

A. The Pleasure Craft Operator Card applies to the driver of the boat, while a Pleasure Craft License applies to the boat itself.

A Pleasure Craft Licence is the number placed on the side of each recreational vessel as required under the Small Vessel Regulations of the Canada Shipping Act. The number is used to assist law enforcement and search and rescue organizations in identifying each individual pleasure craft.

You can apply for a Pleasure Craft License at any Service Canada Centre across the country. For the location nearest you, visit www.servicecanada.gc.ca or call 1.800.O-CANADA.

Q. Do I need a driver's license to operate a watercraft?

A. No, a driver's license is not required to operate a watercraft. You do require your Pleasure Craft Operator Card on board with you while operating a powered watercraft.

Q. What is the fine for operating without your card?

A. Not having the required Pleasure Craft Operator Card or proof of competency on board = $250 (not including administrative charges).

Q. What are some of the common boating offences and associated fines? (not including administrative charges)

A.

• Not having enough approved lifejackets on board = $200
• Carless operation = $200
• Speeding = $100
• Allowing someone under age to operate a boat = $250
• Operating a boat if you are under age = $100
• Operating a boat without a working muffle in good condition = $100
• Towing someone without a spotter = $100

* Source Transport Canada

Q. How will this law be enforced and by Who?

A. The law will be enforced by peace officers. The law requires that the operator of a powered watercraft carry his Pleasure Craft Operator Card, as well as proof of age, with him at all times.

Q. My boat is over 4m. Why should I get the card now?

A. There are many advantages to having the card now, such as:

• Without the card, you cannot operate PWC’s or powered boats under 4m (13.1 ft). This law applies not only to the boats you own, but also to any boats you operate (such as a friend’s or neighbour’s boat).
• You may be eligible for a reduction in marine insurance if you have your Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Verify with your insurance company
• The Card is good for life.
• The Card is recognized across Canada.

Q. Is there an age exemption clause?

A. No, there is no age exemption – this law applies to all operators, regardless of age.

Q. Is there a grandfather clause?

A. Yes, if you have previously taken a boating safety course prior to 1999, you may be exempt from writing the boater exam.

Q. I have a sailboat. Do I need an Operator Card?

A. If you have an auxiliary engine fitted to your sailboat, then you need the Card. This applies even while you are under sail.

Q. Do aboriginals need to have a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?

A. Yes, the regulations do apply to aboriginals, however the regulations do not apply in situations where the craft is used for daily living or subsistence activities (such as hunting and fishing for the purpose of subsistence).

Q. I operate a boat for work purposes. Do I need the Card?

A. No. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card is only required by operators of watercraft being used for recreational purposes. It is common however for many commercial establishments (such as marinas, and fishing & hunting lodges) to ask their staff to obtain their Pleasure Craft Operator Card.

Q. What if I don’t live in Canada, but boat there?

A. Non-residents only need to obtain a Pleasure Craft Operator Card if they are operating their powered boat in Canadian waters for more than 45 consecutive days or if the boat they are operating is registered or licensed in Canada (this includes rented boats). Boater Education Cards or equivalent certifications are recognized in Canada. Proper identification should be kept on board at all times to provide proof of residency.

Q. What about horsepower restriction for children?

A. The table summarizes how horsepower restrictions apply:

Q. Why do operators of smaller boats need the card now, but not yet for bigger boats?

A. The law is phased in gradually – by September 15, 2009 all operators of all powered pleasure craft will require the card or proof of competency (regardless of age, length of boat or size of motor).

Q. What if I rent a powerboat or PWC?

A. Currently, a Pleasure Craft Operator Card is not required in order to operate a rented watercraft. Instead, it is sufficient for a renter to complete a rental safety checklist. Take note however that some companies have made it their corporate policy to require renters to have their Pleasure Craft Operator Card. Below is a sample copy of a rental safety checklist.

• Rental Safety Checklist

Q. Are these laws federal or provincial?

A. The laws governing the Pleasure Craft Operator Card are a federal requirement, and apply in all provinces. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card obtained in one province is equivalent to a Pleasure Craft Operator Card obtained in another province.

Q. Where can I boat with the Pleasure Craft Operator Card?

A. The Pleasure Craft Operator Card allows Canadian citizens to operate their watercrafts recreationally on all Canadian waters where permitted.

The fines for not having your Pleasure Craft Operator Card on board with you vary province by province; it may be as high as $250. Please check with your local enforcement detachment for more information.