This is useful information to know if you enjoy stand-up paddleboarding on Trout Lake, Lake Nipissing or any other waterway in the area.
An exemption to boating regulations negates the requirement to carry 15 metres of buoyant heaving line and motivates the wearing of personal flotation devices or lifejackets when it comes to stand-up paddleboarding (SUP).
SUP is growing in popularity and the OPP is making sure that the regulations are clear before you head out on the water.
SUP is relatively new and is not specifically referenced in small vessel regulations. They are treated the same as other human-powered pleasure craft (such as sit-on-top kayaks, canoes), with the same safety equipment carriage requirements.
When used for navigation, SUPs must be equipped with an approved personal flotation device or lifejacket, 15 metres of buoyant heaving line, a sound-signalling device (like a whistle) , navigation lights (if the vessel is operated between sunset and sunrise), and a magnetic compass when operated beyond sight of seamarks. Non-navigation activities are not subject to the mandatory carriage of safety equipment (surfing, SUP yoga).
In practice, the operation of SUPs is similar to the operation of sit-on-top kayaks and other sealed-hull vessels. Currently, an exception is provided under the regulations, stating that if every person on board a paddleboat, a watercycle or sealed-hull, sit-on-top kayak is wearing a personal flotation device or lifejacket of an appropriate size, they are only required to carry a sound-signalling device and, if operated after sunset or before sunrise or in periods of restricted visibility, a watertight flashlight. Police say this nullifies the requirement to carry 15 metres of buoyant heaving line and motivates the wearing of personal flotation devices or lifejackets.
