Exploring Moorage in BC

An oceanfront get-away, complete with dock for the boat, is a dream of many people. However, many people don't realize that putting in a dock isn't as simply as, say, putting up a fence. There are requirements, applications and permits that must be obtained.

In BC the installation of docks is overseen by the Land Tenures Branch of the Ministry of Forests, Lands and Natural Resource Operations. Any person wanting to build a dock on any body of water in BC (river, lake or ocean) must apply to this government body. There are specific requirements that must be met and a fee paid to apply. If one is thinking of putting in moorage it requires detailed plans, usually requiring the services of a surveyor, an engineer and/or a professional dock builder.

Other parties also need to be consulted. The Ministry requires that local government be consulted for any local zoning or regulations on moorage and docks. First Nation consultation is required, and the Ministry recommends that applicants start the conversation process with  any local First Nations groups, as this can make the process more streamlined. Finally, if there are any upland properties that will be affected by the proposed moorage then those owners must provide permissions.

Applying for permission for moorage and installing the moorage do not have to happen at the same time. Often property owners will apply for moorage knowing that eventually they want to install moorage facilities, or knowing that it will enhance the selling of their property. Once Specific Permission for Moorage is obtained, it can be transferred to new property owners without them having to go through the approval process, although First Nations consultation is required and the transfer process can take up to 6 months. Specific Permission is the normal approval given for moorage now and has no expiry date once given. One can still get a lease for a set term as well, usually this is for larger, commercial moorage applications. It is important to read the Private Moorage policy to see which one you would be applying for.

Note that moorage buoys are not governed by this policy, they are instead under the jurisdiction of Transport Canada.

Like any other major project, the best advice is do your homework. Talk to the appropriate officials, get recommendations of experts from people who already have docks or know about docks. Make sure you have all the information you need to make an informed decision.

 

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