Permits and Authorizations

PortsToronto is responsible safe navigation within the Port and Harbour of Toronto. PortsToronto is also responsible for facilitating the safe, shared use of the harbour and ensuring safe navigation.

As part of its stewardship of the harbour, PortsToronto issues Toronto Port Authority permits to boaters and provides authorizations for activities that occur in, on, over, under, through or across the waters in its jurisdiction.

Powered Vessel Operator’s Permits

Recreational boaters operating a powered vessel within the Port and Harbour of Toronto must be in possession of BOTH a Powered Vessel Operator’s Permit and a Pleasure Craft Operator Card.

New permit applicants, you can call the Permit Office (Tel: 416-778-1230) to schedule a testing appointment. Appointments are available on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays until October. The fee for new applicants is $30 which also includes your first year.

For more information or assistance, please contact the Permit Office at 416-778-1230. Office hours are Monday to Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

Please visit the Powered Vessel Operator’s Permit page for more information.

Harbour Master Authorizations

The Toronto Port Authority grants Harbour Master Authorizations to facilitate safe navigation and monitor construction and marine activities in and around the harbour. Under Sections 23, 25 and 27 and Schedule 1, Part 15 of the Port Authorities Operations Regulations of the Canada Marine Act, various activities in the Port and Harbour of Toronto are prohibited unless a Harbour Master Authorization is issued for the activity before it occurs, including:

• Marine events
• Construction
• Diving
• Filming

Please visit the Harbour Master Authorizations section and the Port Authorities Operations Regulations for more information.