Harbour Master Notice 2002-04

Diving Activities in Toronto Harbour

MAY 2007

In accordance with the Toronto Port Authority's Operating Regulations, anyone wishing to carry out any diving activities within the jurisdiction of the Port of Toronto, including recreational or commercial diving, must first obtain authorization from the Toronto Port Authority through the submission of an "Application for Authorization" form (attached).  This includes the "Sligo" at Humber Bay.

As such, commercial divers, as part of the application form , are to provide proof of insurance (Commercial General Liability) naming the Toronto Port Authority and Her Majesty in Right of Canada as additional insured.  Individual private divers are required to sign a waiver with the Toronto Port Authority.

The standard administration fee for diving activities is $20.00 + GST per season (May 1 to October 31) per individual, but organized businesses are charged a one-time fee of $106.00 (includes GST) for the year.  Please make your cheque payable to the Toronto Port Authority.

Also attached is a "Waiver of Claim" form that is to be signed and witnessed by yourself if an individual, and on behalf of the business in the case of a commercial enterprise, and returned along with the fee and other documentation.  Commercial entities are requested to have the requisite insurance coverage noted and included on any signed waivers.  Commercial entities are also requested to have a waiver signed by each individual diver.  I have attached an extra waiver form for your use in making photocopies to keep on hand.

Finally, it is a condition of permission that the Toronto Police Services Marine Unit be provided with time and location of each and every diving activity taking place in Toronto Harbour.

Diving in the jurisdiction of the TPA without permission is an offence of the Canada Marine Act, and this will be enforced.  All of the above information is to be sent to the office of the Harbour Master, noting that a turnaround time of at least 5 days is required for approval. Telephone the office of the Harbour Master at 416-462-3937 for payment information and instructions on sending in application forms. Payment may be made by Visa, MasterCard or by cheque prior to authorization being granted.

Download the application form.

Angus Armstrong
Harbour Master