Do you use a boat with an outboard motor (10 horsepower or greater) that requires a Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL)? Or are you planning on applying for a Pleasure Craft Operator Card?
If so, Transport Canada is proposing changes that will impact you. Here’s a breakdown of some of the changes that are being considered:
A $15 fee to process an application to obtain a new PCL or to renew, transfer, or duplicate a PCL.
A 5-year expiration period for all PCLs (currently no expiry or 10-year expiration period).
Easier cancellation of PCLs if the holder of a lifetime PCL fails to apply, or if a PCL holder fails to renew a PCL.
Reduced timeframe for owners to notify of a name or address change from 90 days to 30 days, and specify 30 days for the buyer to notify of a sale or transfer of a vessel.
Transport Canada is also proposing changes to the Pleasure Craft Operator Competency Program by introducing an accreditation application fee of $5,000, payable every five years by course providers, and implementing a maintenance and test materials access fee of $8.50 for each Pleasure Craft Operator Card that’s issued. Therefore, it is expected that course providers could increase course fees in order to recuperate these additional expenses.
The OFAH will be providing feedback on behalf of the outdoors community. We also represent these interests through our longstanding involvement on the Ontario Recreational Boating Advisory Committee – a platform to share angler and hunter perspectives with government officials.
Be sure to voice your opinion directly. To learn more about Transport Canada’s proposals and submit comments, go to https://letstalktransportation.ca/mss. ~OFAH
