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Can I paddle anywhere? The essential Guide to Waterways Licensing

Neil Kinnerly • Jul 19, 2022

Waterways Licences and Permits

Do I need a waterways licence or river permit to kayak, canoe or paddleboard in Wales?

Do you want to launch into a paddling adventure, but you’re not sure if you need a licence or permit? It can be a bit confusing so we’ve put together this handy guide so you know where you can go, what licence you need and where you can get it.

Do I need a waterways licence or river permit for my kayak, canoe or paddleboard?

It depends on where you’re paddling! On waterways managed by the Canal & River Trust you must have a waterways licence. In Wales this includes the Montgomery, Llangollen, Swansea and, Monmouthshire and Brecon canals (in England it includes most canals and some rivers). If you’re a Canoe Wales On the Water member then you automatically have a waterways licence for Wales and England (congratulations!).

Most managed lakes and reservoirs require a permit that can usually be bought on-site (some can be pre-booked on-line). Some of these also require that all paddlers hold public liability insurance (also included in Canoe Wales membership). Non-managed lakes can usually be accessed for free. For details of all the lakes and reservoirs in Wales which allow canoes, kayaks and paddleboards and their permit requirements click here.

You don’t need a permit or licence to paddle on rivers, estuaries or coastal waters in Wales, however, some harbours charge a launch fee which can usually be paid on-site.

For a comprehensive list of canals, lakes and rivers in Wales and England, click here, scroll down to the Waterways Lookup and click Show All.

If you can't find the place you want to paddle on the list, it can mean a few things. You may not need a licence to paddle it or the licence doesn't cover that section.

If you're unsure whether the place you want to paddle requires a licence, just contact us.

How do I get a waterways licence?

Basically, you register and pay, and then receive your licence – anyone can get one. The easiest way to get a licence (according to the Canal & River Trust!), is by becoming a member of Canoe Wales (or British Canoeing if you live in England). Canoe Wales On the Water membership costs £47 and includes a waterways licence for Wales and England (covering around 4500km of waterways!). If membership isn’t for you then you can buy licences direct from the Canal & River Trust.

If you like the sound of Canoe Wales membership (and who wouldn’t?!) it comes with other benefits too, including public liability insurance (which some waterways require) and retailer discounts. Plus there are discounted memberships for family, couples and young persons.

Do I need to carry my waterways licence?

Yes, you will need to carry proof of your licence when paddling, otherwise you could be fined. Your Canoe Wales membership card is proof that you have a waterways licence.

What if I don’t have a waterways licence?

If you’re paddling on a waterway that requires a licence, you could face a substantial fine.

Why do I need a waterways licence?

A licence is required by the organisations that manage the waterway e.g. the Canal & River Trust. The money they collect from licences helps them maintain and improve waterways; your licence fee keeps your favourite paddling spots clean and clear!

It goes towards:

Managing the put-ins, take-outs and towpaths
Looking after the water quality and level
Removal of debris
Flood damage repairs
Removal of invasive non-native species, including floating pennywort, which can be found on boats/kit and carried from waterway to waterway. This can block entire stretches of rivers and canals in days!
Installing ‘Check, Clean, Dry’ stations to prevent the spread of invasive species
Protection against and repair of erosion of water banks

If there are 2 or more of us in a canoe, kayak or on a paddleboard do we all need waterways licences or to pay permits/fees?

A waterways licence from the Canal & River Trust, or as part of a Canoe Wales membership, covers the holder and their canoe, kayak or paddleboard (paddlecraft). If there is another person in/on the paddlecraft they don’t need a separate waterways licence. However, the paddler with the licence MUST be on/in the paddlecraft with them.

Permits for lakes and reservoirs are set by the managing organisation and can vary from site to site. Public liability insurance through Canoe Wales membership only covers the individual member; all paddlers need their own membership to be insured.

How do I get public liability insurance to canoe, kayak or paddleboard?

The easiest way is to join Canoe Wales! With On the Water membership public liability is automatically included, so you’re covered for the year.

OK, I’m in - how do I join Canoe Wales and how quickly will I get my membership card?

Smart choice! You can join Canoe Wales here. Membership cards are usually sent within 10 days (often much sooner), however, if you need proof of licence or public liability insurance before then, just carry your confirmation email with you.

We hope that this has answered all your questions and you’re now ready to launch into a paddling adventure! If you have any more questions then drop us a line at Canoe Wales; we’re always happy to chat about paddling!

Thanks to Pete Catterall for the photography.

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