Navigable Waters Protection Program - Brochure
The Navigable Waters Protection Program (NWPP) is responsible for the
protection of the public right of navigation and the protection
of the environment through the administration of the Navigable Waters
Protection Act (NWPA). Specifically, the NWPP:
- approves any works built or placed in, on, over, under, through or across
navigable water in Canada prior to construction of the work(s);
- removes obstructions to navigation including unauthorized works or other
obstructions such as sunken or wrecked vessels;
- regulates the provision and maintenance of lights, markers, etc. required
for safe navigation during and/or on completion of the construction of
certain works;
- acts as the Receiver of Wreck by applying the Canada Shipping Act 2001,
Part VII.
What are navigable waters?
Navigable waters are defined as including any body of water capable
of being navigated by any type of floating vessel for the purpose of
transportation, recreation or commerce. The final authority to determine
if a waterway is navigable rests with the Minister of Transport or the
person that he/she delegates.
What is a work?
The term work or works refers to any proposed project that is subject
to review and approval under the Act. The Act generally indicates that
works include any structure, device or other thing that may interfere
with navigation.
What is an Approval?
Approval refers to an approval document authorizing the construction of
proposed works. The document is issued by the Minister of Transport
or his/her delegated representative.
Why do I have to comply with the NWPA?
Because it is the law. The NWPA was adopted to protect the public right of
navigation. Complying with the Act will help ensure that the
interference created by your project is acceptable, so that the rights of
other waterway users are respected.
What do I do before I start my work?
Before you start your project, contact the nearest NWPP Office in your area
to discuss in general terms
the construction of the work you are proposing to build.
The Navigable Waters Protection Officer will assist you in determining what
information
and documentation is required for preparing and submitting an application under the NWPA
Where can I learn more?
To learn more about the NWPP and how to apply for the right to build a work,
contact the NWPP office in your region.
Visit us on-line at:
http://www.tc.gc.ca/marinesafety/oep/nwpp/menu.htm
Or, write us at:
Navigable Waters Protection Program
Marine Safety
Transport Canada
Tower C, Place de Ville
330 Sparks Street, 10th Floor
Ottawa ON
K1A 0N8
E-mail: oep@tc.gc.ca
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