Guidance has been updated for local authorities on powers available to regulate recreational craft and personal watercraft under the Maritime Safety Act 2005.

Section 6 in Part 2 of the Act allows local authorities, harbour authorities and Waterways Ireland to make bye-laws to regulate or control the operation of craft or specified classes of craft in waters in their functional areas.

The prohibition or restriction of such craft may be in the interests of the safety of persons, for the prevention of nuisance or injury to persons or damage to watercraft or other property on the waters, or to protect natural heritage areas and protected monuments.

The guidance note, which can be downloaded below, also contains information on issues relating to the design, implementation and management of such bye-laws while recognising that the conditions and issues can vary in different parts of the country.