PCL Number Bow Placement — SOR/2010-91
Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91) · Federal — Canada
§The Law
Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91) — Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91)
“The pleasure craft licence number should be displayed on both sides of the bow, above the waterline, where it is clearly visible.”
View official regulation text✓Plain English
PCL numbers go on the bow — the front of the boat — on both left and right sides. They should be above the waterline so they stay visible.
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Specific Requirements
On the bow — front of vessel
Both port and starboard sides
Above the waterline
Not on stern or transom
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📚Sources & Authority
Every claim on this page is backed by official government legislation and verified industry sources. Last verified: March 2026.
🏛 Official Government Sources
Pleasure Craft Licensing — Transport Canada
Transport Canada · March 2026
Official Transport Canada page for Pleasure Craft Licensing. Covers who needs a PCL, how to apply, number display requirements, and renewal.
Small Vessel Regulations — SOR/2010-91
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Small Vessel Regulations define marking requirements for pleasure craft including PCL number size (75mm minimum), placement (both sides of bow), and colour contrast.
Canada Shipping Act, 2001
Justice Laws Canada · March 2026
The Canada Shipping Act is the federal legislation governing all vessel registration, safety, and compliance in Canadian waters.
🏢 Industry Organizations
All sources are official government publications or recognized industry authorities. Links verified March 2026. If you find a broken link, let us know.
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Shop Marine Registration NumbersOr call (289) 228-7021Regulation Quick Facts
- Regulation
- Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91)
- Jurisdiction
- 🇨🇦 Federal — Canada
- Category
- Marine & Boating Law
Source library
Confirm the current rule before relying on a marking
Our guides are a starting point for locating government sources connected to Small Vessel Regulations (SOR/2010-91) markings. Requirements can depend on jurisdiction, vehicle or site details, and the date you act.
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