Small Commercial Vessels 

• 0-15 gross tons (0-12 metres)
• carrying up to 12 passengers
• other non-pleasure craft

	Am I in the right place? You’re in the right place if your vessel: is not used solely for commercial fishing or for pleasure; is not more than 15 gross tons (generally not more than 12 metres in length overall); and, does not carry more than 12 passengers.
If you do not carry passengers, but your vessel is used for non-pleasure purposes and is not more than 15 gross tons, this page is also for you.

What do I need to know about this type of vessel?

• New technology and evolving industry standards are two factors that directly impact marine legislation. Taking a modern approach to safety requires regulations, standards and policies be updated regularly to reflect such industry components. Making sure that you are aware of any changes in regulation will help you remain compliant. Check What’s New? for recent changes or consult the current Regulations to determine the requirements for your vessel.
  
  
• All small commercial vessels require a Notice of Inspection issued following a satisfactory inspection by a marine inspector.
  
  
• Whether you are an experienced mariner or just starting out, there is additional information available to you. The Small Commercial Vessel Safety Guide is a helpful tool for enhancing education and awareness of matters pertaining to small vessels, particularly those less than 15 gross tons. The Guide provides general information and lists some of the core regulations you will need to comply with if you operate a vessel in this category such as:
  
  

  Getting ready to set sail

  • Checking your safety equipment 
  • Emergency Procedures 
  • Pre-departure Safety Checklist 
  • Safety briefings for passengers 

Some core regulations and standards pertaining to this vessel category:

Construction (0-12 passengers)

• Small Vessel Regulations
• TP 1332 - Construction Standards for Small Vessels
• TP 127 - Ships Electrical Standards

Stability (0-12 passengers)

• TP 14619 - Transport Canada Simplified Assessment of Intact Stability & Buoyancy of Small Non-Pleasure Vessels: Assessment Guide (vessels whose construction started prior to April 1, 2005)
• TP 1332 - Construction Standards for Small Vessels - Section 5 (vessels whose construction started on or after April 1, 2005)

Construction (over 12 passengers)

• TP 11717 - Standards for the Construction and Inspection of Small Passenger Vessels (over 12 passengers but not more than 100 unberthed or 25 berthed)
• TP 7301 - Stability, Subdivision and Load Line Standards
• TP 10943 - Ship Safety Passenger Ship Operations and Damaged Stability Standards (Non-Convention Ships)
• Fire Detection and Extinguishing Equipment Regulations

Life Saving 

• Life Saving Equipment Regulations (over 12 passengers)

Crewing

• Crewing Regulations (over 5 gross tons)
• Safe Working Practices Regulations

Voyage Classification

• Home-Trade, Inland and Minor Waters Voyages Regulations

Navigation

• Collision Regulations
• Ship Station (Radio) Regulations

Other Important Information

• Registration and Licensing 
• Small Vessel Monitoring and Inspection Program 
• Passenger Vessel Decals
• Reporting Marine Occurrence