Purpose
Transport Canada has launched a new component of the voluntary Small Vessel Compliance Program. The program now includes small fishing vessels not more than 15 gross tonnage. This bulletin provides information about the program to owners and operators of small commercial fishing vessels.
Scope
This bulletin applies to all owners and operators of Canadian small commercial fishing vessels not more than 15 gross tonnage.
What you need to know
To own or operate a small commercial fishing vessel, you must meet various safety and environmental requirements set out in the Canada Shipping Act, 2001 and its related regulations such as the
The Small Vessel Compliance Program and its new component for small commercial fishing vessels help owners and operators understand and meet the legal requirements that apply to their vessels. The program is voluntary, but meeting the regulatory requirements is not.
The program is an easy-to-use tool. It provides guidance on legal requirements such as
- registering the vessel with Transport Canada;
- carrying required safety equipment on board;
- developing safety procedures for operating the vessel and responding to emergencies; and
- ensuring the crew is properly qualified and trained.
How to enrol
You can enroll your fishing vessel in this program using one of the methods below:
- Print the small vessel detailed compliance report for fishing vessels not more than 15 gross tonnage (DCR-FORM: 85‑0509) and fill it in. or
- Request a copy of the detailed compliance report for small fishing vessels from your regional Transport Canada Marine Safety office and fill it in.
For help filling in the detailed compliance report, refer to Guidance notes for the detailed compliance report for small fishing vessels not more than 15 gross tonnage (TP 15356).
Once you complete your report, submit it by mail to your local Transport Canada Marine Safety Service Centre.
When you have successfully enrolled your vessel, we will let you know. You will receive an orange decal to display on the vessel, which shows she is enrolled in the program.
We are currently developing an online method of enrolment. It will be available soon.
To learn more about this program, visit the Small Vessel Compliance Program.
