False Creek boat restrictions now in effect

Dozens of live-aboard boaters in Vancouver now need a permit to anchor in False Creek, as a new city bylaw takes effect Tuesday.

Officials at city hall say the anchored boats are a pollution problem and a navigation hazard, and want them moved.

City councils have been dealing withthe issue for the past decade, and only recently were able to get the federal Marine Act amended tolimit boaters to just 14 days a month anchored in the waterway.

After that, boaters will be required to move to a marina.

The change also allows the city to enforce the two-week limit.

Some of the boaters have been living in False Creek for years, and the city has said it's prepared to help them find new accommodations.

City spokeswoman Taryn Scollard says police have already delivered notices to the boat residents, informing them of the change.

Enforcement will begin on Aug 15. Boaters who don't move could face fines up to $500.