Choosing and buying a licence

If you have a boat that will stay on our waterways whether or not you are using it, you will need a long term licence. If your boat is based on a navigation managed by a different authority (e.g. the Environment Agency, Broads Authority etc), or if your boat is very small and you only put it into the waterway for the occasional trip, a short term licence will suffice.

The licence allows you to use your boat on our waters including mooring for short periods while cruising. Short period means up to 14 days or less where indicated by us. The licence does not permit mooring for any longer period.

Your next decision is on the type of licence. If you intend to use the boat commercially, you need a business licence. Otherwise a standard licence is sufficient.

If you are thinking of letting your boat out for hire please do read over this pdf.