Last updated : July 2018
These regulations will enter into full force in 2018, published by Transport Canada,.
If you are paddling across a body of water, or getting from Point A to Point B, you are navigating.

Stand Up Paddleboards (SUP) used for navigation fall into the same category as canoes, kayaks, rowboats, rowing shells, and other human powered boats less than 6m and you are required to carry mandatory safety equipment under the Small Vessel Regulations.
- Option 1: WEAR a lifejacket with a whistle (no buoyant heaving line required).
- Option 2: CARRY a lifejacket on board with whistle and a buoyant heaving line.
- Option 3: NONE then could receive a $200 – $500 fine for non-compliance.
*watertight flashlight is required for lowlight or nighttime conditions.
If you are NOT navigating (park and play at the waterfront, dock, or surf wave, surf beach), then TC does not consider the SUP use as regulated vessel for mandatory equipment requirements.
Paddle Canada also recommends the use of an appropriate ankle or waistbelt leash although not required equipment.
For more information please visit TC website here or excerpt below: