Vessel Name Requirements Canada

Vessel Name Requirements Canada

Understand the strict rules for displaying a Registered Vessel Name and Port of Registry in Canada.

The Core Regulations

If you have chosen to Register your vessel rather than License it, Transport Canada dictates that the vessel's assigned Name must be displayed on each bow, and the Name and Port of Registry must be displayed on the stern. The lettering must be at least 100mm (4 inches) high. Find the exact layout requirements here.

Why Compliance Matters

Failing to properly license your vessel or failing to display those numbers as per the Small Vessel Regulations is a citable offence under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001. A fine for improperly displayed numbers can easily exceed $250. Don't let a missing decal ruin your weekend on the water.

Need Compliant Numbers? Stop painting your numbers on or using hardware store mailbox letters. Get marine-grade, pre-spaced, TC-Compliant Boat Registration Decals that apply perfectly in one step.

Your Boat Registration Numbers β€” Are They Compliant?

Transport Canada requires every motorized pleasure craft to display its Pleasure Craft Licence (PCL) number on both sides of the bow: minimum 75 mm (3 inches) tall, block letters, contrasting colour to the hull. Faded, missing, or undersized numbers are citable offences on any Ontario waterway.

Required under Transport Canada Small Vessel Regulations SOR/2010-91 Β· Last Verified: March 2026
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Complete Ontario Boating Guide β€” All Pages

Every ramp guide, regulation reference, and compliance resource on this site. Bookmark what you need before the season.

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Peterborough & Trent
Trent River Β· Stoney Lake Β· Otonabee
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Boat Registration Ontario
PCL number, display rules, Transport Canada
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Boat Registration Guide
Step-by-step PCL registration walkthrough
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Boat Number Decals β€” Ontario
PCL number size, placement, material requirements
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Ontario Boating Laws
PCOC, speed limits, safety equipment, alcohol rules
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Transport Canada Vessel Marking
Official TC marking rules for pleasure craft
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Vessel Name Requirements Canada
Registered vessel name display rules

Boat Registration Number Decals β€” Made in Canada

Pre-cut vinyl decals to display your PCL number correctly under Transport Canada regulations. 75 mm (3-inch) and 100 mm (4-inch) height options. Multiple colours for hull contrast. UV-rated for marine conditions β€” 7-year outdoor guarantee. Ships from Niagara, Ontario via Canada Post.

Compliant with Small Vessel Regulations SOR/2010-91 Β· Ships from Port Colborne, Ontario
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