Significant regulatory changes affecting pleasure craft have recently been published by Transport Canada and will be implemented progressively over the coming years.
These changes, introduced by Transport Canada, aim to improve data quality and owner identification, support law enforcement and emergency response activities, and ensure a fair distribution of program costs while promoting compliance of vessels with Canadian requirements.
In practical terms, pleasure craft licences will now be valid for a period of five years. A fee of $24 will apply to all applications, renewals, or modifications. Owners will also be required to update their information within 30 days of any change. In addition, certain requirements will be gradually extended to other types of vessels over the coming years.
The implementation of these new rules will be phased in. Existing licences without an expiry date will be transitioned according to the following schedule:
| Licence issue date | New expiry date |
|---|---|
| 1974 or earlier | March 31, 2026 |
| 1975 – 1985 | December 31, 2026 |
| 1986 – 1995 | December 31, 2027 |
| 1996 – 1999 | December 31, 2028 |
| 2000 – 2005 | December 31, 2029 |
| 2006 – 2010 | December 31, 2030 |
The Board of Directors is sharing this information to help members remain compliant with applicable regulations, avoid potential penalties, and continue enjoying the lake in a safe and well-managed environment.
For more details, please refer to the Canada Gazette: https://gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p2/2025/2025-12-31/html/sor-dors272-eng.html