Required by Size & Type
The Small Vessel Regulations set out the minimum safety equipment required on board a recreational boat according to vessel length.
To determine the length of your vessel, refer to your manufacturer's product information or measure it yourself - from the forward end of the foremost outside surface of the hull shell to the after end of the aftermost outside surface of the hull shell.
Sailboards
Paddleboats and watercycles less than 6 m (19' 8") in length
Canoes, kayaks, rowboats and rowing shells less than 6 m (19' 8') in length
Unpowered pleasure craft less than 6 m (19'8") in length
Personal watercraft (PWC)
Powered pleasure craft less than 6 m (19'8") in length
Pleasure craft greater than 6 m (19'8") in length but no greater than 8 m (26'3") in length
Pleasure craft greater than 8 m (26'3") in length but no greater than 12 m (39'4") in length
Pleasure craft greater than 12 m (39'4") in length but no greater than 20 m (65'7") in length
Specific requirements for pleasure craft involved in competition
In the case of any discrepancy between the information on this page and the Small Vessel Regulations, the formal regulatory text shall remain the final authority.
Detailed Information on Specific Equipment (PFDs, flares, etc.)
Personal flotation devices (PFDs) and lifejackets
Buoyant heaving lines, lifebuoys, reboarding devices, manual propelling device, bailers and manual water pumps and portable fire extinguishers
Watertight flashlights and distress flares
Wearalifejacket.com - information on choosing and wearing a flotation device
Note please: These minimum safety equipment requirements do not apply to beach and pool toys that measure less than 2 m (6'7") in length that are not designed to be fitted with a motor. Note that operating an outboard motor-driven surfboard in any Canadian waters is strictly prohibited.
If you are renting a boat and will be operating it for recreational purposes, these carriage requirements also apply to you.
If you are using your vessel for commercial purposes or are carrying passengers for remuneration, you should consult with a Transport Canada Centre to check which regulations apply.