About the Service River Patrol Unit

The Competency of Operators of Pleasure Craft Regulations require that all operators of recreational vessels fitted with a motor have proof of competency and proof of age on board at all times.

The Regulations are being phased in as follows:

• All operators born after April 1, 1983 are required to have proof of competency since 1999.
• As of September 15, 2002 all operators of crafts of less than 4 m will be required to have proof of competency
• As of September 15, 2009 all operators will be required to have proof of competency.

The Age-Horsepower Restrictions prohibit operators under the age of 16 from operating recreational vessels above specific horsepower limits.

• Children under the age of 12 and not directly supervised by someone 16 years of age or older can operate a recreational vessel with no more than 10 hp.

• Youth between 12 years of age and under 16 years of age and not directly supervised by someone 16 year of age or older can operate a recreational vessel with no more than 40 hp.

• Only persons 16 years of age or older can operate a personal watercraft (PWC) regardless of supervision.