Spyglass Dock in False Creek

Wharf By-law

To ensure our waterfront wharves, facilities, and properties are safe, accessible, and user-friendly, we have enacted a Wharf Regulation By-law.

The by-law:

  • Improves enforcement of existing regulations for moorage and activities on the City-owned wharves in False Creek, as well as City-owned waterfront lands and facilities not covered under existing moorage agreements
  • Addresses multiple challenges at City wharves regarding equitable access, competing uses, and reducing damage

The location of all City-owned wharves with short-term public moorage areas can be found in the by-law (1.1 MB).

A draft version of the by-law was shared with a targeted group of stakeholders in False Creek for feedback in February 2022. A revised version of the by-law was then submitted to council and approved in April 2022. 

Sanctioned public wharves and proposed by-law regulations

We own and maintain six public wharves in False Creek which facilitate public use and provide designated short-term moorage opportunities. Other City-owned wharves, facilities, and properties do not accommodate public moorage.

Impounded dinghies and towing fees

Dinghies and small boats can be impounded from City-owned docks and wharves in False Creek and City-owned waterfront lands for a variety of reasons:

  • You have violated a provision of the Wharf By-law
  • Your dinghy or boat is moored outside of a designated public moorage area (marked with public moorage signs at each dock)
  • You have exceeded the three-hour limit or vessel size limit of 4 metres (12 feet)

Park Board marine facilities

A number of marine facilities are owned by the Park Board, including:

  • Vanier Boat Ramp
  • Alder Bay and Harbour Green docks
  • False Creek Paddle Centre
  • Beaches throughout the city 

Park Board staff are working on regulations similar to those in this by-law, and will be undertaking a separate and independent review and implementation process.

Long-term moorage options

Those looking for long-term moorage option should contact Heather or Burrard Civic Marinas or private marinas. Private facilities are also available around the city outside of False Creek.