Simplified Dock and Mooring Approval Rules

Official title: Mooring standards engagement

Closed Regulations & Permits Environment & Climate Natural Resources
Alberta asked dock owners how to simplify the approval process for placing docks, boat lifts, and swimming platforms in lakes and rivers. The goal? Cut red tape so most seasonal dock owners won't need a permit if they follow the rules. This consultation ran in late 2020 and has now resulted in a new disturbance standard.

Why This Matters

Own a dock or thinking of putting one in? This affects you directly. Before this change, thousands of Albertans had to wait for government approval just to put in a seasonal dock. Now there's a simpler path if you follow the standard.

What Could Change

A new disturbance standard now exists for temporary seasonal docks and mooring structures. Most dock owners no longer need to apply for authorization if they meet all requirements. This eliminates the backlog of thousands of seasonal dock applications.

Key Issues

  • What requirements should dock owners follow to avoid needing a permit?
  • How can the approval process be simplified while protecting waterbodies?

What Happened

Albertans shared feedback through an online survey from November 2 to December 14, 2020. The feedback contributed to the development of a disturbance standard that streamlines authorizations for temporary seasonal docks and mooring structures.

View Final Decision

Key Documents