Anchoring in False Creek
Anchoring Restriction for False Creek
The new False Creek Anchoring permit system (effective August 1, 2006) is designed to improve access for boaters in Vancouver’s False Creek.
This regulation allows the City to proactively manage anchoring in False Creek by limiting the amount of time boaters can anchor, and also by ensuring that boaters provide contact information so they can be reached in the event of a problem with their boat. The regulation allows boaters to anchor for shorter periods of time in False Creek, but also ensures that there is some turnover so that all boaters who wish to enjoy the creek may do so.
Boaters are required to obtain a permit to anchor in False Creek for:
- Anchoring more than 8 hours during the day (9am to 11pm) or
- Anchoring anytime between 11pm and 9am the following day.
Permits are available at the Boater Welcome Centre and are free of charge. The permit will allow boaters to anchor a maximum of 14 full or partial days of 30 days during high season (April 1 to September 30) and 21 days of 40 days in low season (October 1 to March 31). Boaters may extend their stay in False Creek by moving to a marina after their allowable anchoring time has expired.
The intent of the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulations for False Creek is not to discourage recreational use of False Creek. Rather, the permit system will provide a safer and less congested environment, and allow more equitable access for all boaters who want to use the waterway.
False Creek Marinas and Services (
PDF, 2.3Mb)
For questions please email blueways@vancouver.ca
For further background …
- Report outlining the
results of the 2001 public consultation ( PDF, 2.4Mb)
- Report to City Council requesting authorization to apply for the Boating Restriction
Navigable Channel
No anchoring is permitted within the Navigable Channel in False Creek either currently or with the new anchoring restriction. Additionally, anchored boats must not impede access or egress from any of the ferry docks or marinas in False Creek. Non-complying boats will be removed at the owner’s expense. The Navigable Channel, taken from VanMap, is shown below. Note: In order to use VanMap, you will need to install a viewer. Directions can be found on the VanMap website. Once the viewer is installed, and you are able to view VanMap, turn on the False Creek Navigable Channel layer in the legend.
A Transport Canada permit is required to hold a special event, such as a race or regatta, in False Creek. Transport Canada permit applications can be obtained from:
Office of Boating Safety
Transport Canada Marine
Phone: 604.666.2705
Fax: 250.666.1911
Email: Timothy.McCann@tc.gc.ca
Please note that on-shore portions of Special Events also require a City of Vancouver Special Event Permit. More information on obtaining a City of Vancouver Special Event permit can be found at Special Events in Vancouver or by contacting City of Vancouver Special Events at 604.257.8850.
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