| The Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations (VORR) provides local authorities with a way to address safety, environmental, and public interest concerns on their local waterways. They allow any level of government in Canada to ask the federal government to restrict the use of pleasure crafts and commercial vessels on local bodies of water.
Transport Canada works alongside local authorities to address waterway safety and environmental concerns by placing restrictions on speed, hours of operation, type of propulsion, and activities.
The updated regulations address longstanding concerns from municipalities about the lengthy process and respond to the government’s broader commitment to cutting red tape.
- The VORR allows federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, and Indigenous governments to request boating restrictions on specific bodies of water.
- Common restrictions include limits on vessel speed, engine power, types of propulsion, hours of operation, and permitted activities such as wake surfing or towing.
- Restrictions may apply year-round or during specific times of day, seasons, or to specific types of craft.
- The amended regulations will reduce the approval timelines for applications.
- Under the amended process, local authorities must still undertake public consultations and demonstrate stakeholder support for proposed restrictions. Transport Canada will continue to review applications for compliance and provide guidance through an improved application guide. This modernized approach enhances collaboration between local stakeholders and federal regulators while ensuring safe and sustainable recreational boating across Canada.
- A revised application guide and new application template will assist local authorities in preparing comprehensive, stakeholder-supported applications.
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