Personal watercrafts (PWCs), commonly known by brand names such as Jet Skis, Sea-Doos, and WaveRunners, can pose serious safety risks when operated unsafely or in inappropriate locations. Toronto’s waterfront is a busy, shared space used by swimmers, paddlers, boaters, and beachgoers. Everyone has a role to play in keeping these areas safe.
The City of Toronto developed a Personal Watercraft Safety Plan in response to City Council direction to address safety concerns related to personal watercraft use along Toronto’s waterfront. The plan focuses on improving safety near beaches and waterfront parks, reducing unpermitted rental activity, strengthening enforcement, and increasing public education and awareness.
All personal watercraft users must follow federal boating safety regulations. This includes obeying shoreline speed limits staying out of designated swim zones, maintaining safe distances from swimmers and paddlers, and carrying all required safety equipment. Unsafe behaviours such as speeding near shore or operating too close to swimmers put lives at risk. Pleasure Craft Operators Card (PCOC) and Powered Vessel Operators Permit (PVOP) required. All vessels and personal watercraft must carry required safety equipment and approved life jackets. Unsafe or careless operation may result in fines from and/or criminal charges.
Motorized Watercraft Exclusion Zones are areas near certain beaches and waterfront parks where motorized vessels, including personal watercrafts, are restricted or prohibited by federal authorities. These zones are designed to protect swimmers and other non-motorized users in high-use areas. Exclusion zones are communicated through buoys in the water, digital marine charts and, where available, on-site signage. Operators are responsible for knowing and respecting these zones.
Personal watercrafts cannot be rented from City of Toronto parks, beaches, or waterfront trails. Operating a personal watercraft rental business from City property is not permitted and may result in enforcement action, including fines or criminal charges.
Members of the public are strongly encouraged not to rent personal watercrafts from unlicensed or unauthorized operators. Even if an operator claims to follow federal rules, renting PWCs from City beaches or parks is illegal.
The City enforces bylaws on land, including in parks and beaches, related to unpermitted commercial activity. The Toronto Police Service Marine Unit enforces boating safety rules on the water. Unsafe or illegal activity may result in tickets, inspections, fines, or removal from the water.
For more information about safe boating practices, personal watercraft rules, and how to enjoy Toronto’s waterfront responsibly, residents and visitors are encouraged to follow posted signage, check official City updates, and consult Transport Canada boating safety resources.