Norfolk County seeks input on potential changes to boating restrictions at Port Dover Beach

Norfolk County is inviting community feedback on a proposed change to the designated boating restriction area at Port Dover Beach, following requests from residents to revisit the current designation. 

The area is currently listed under the Vessel Operation Restriction Regulation (VORR) of the Canada Shipping Act as a Schedule 1 restriction, meaning “Waters on Which All Vessels are Prohibited.” As a result, no vessels of any kind are permitted within the restricted area. 

County staff are reviewing the possibility of applying for a redesignation to a Schedule 2 restriction, or “Waters on Which Power-driven Vessels and Vessels Driven by Electrical Propulsion are Prohibited.” This would allow non-motorized vessels such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards in the area, while continuing to prohibit motorized and electrically powered watercraft. 

Residents can view maps of the proposed changes at engagenorfolk.ca/port-dover-buoys.  

How to participate 

Norfolk County is encouraging residents and stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed changes through the following engagement opportunities: 

In-person public open house: 

Community members are invited to drop in, speak with County staff, ask questions, and share their views on the potential redesignation. 

Date: May 5, 2025 
Time: Drop in from 4 to 7 p.m. 
Location: Port Dover Community Centre – Hall A 

Survey: 

The community can complete an online survey by May 20, 2025, at engagenorfolk.ca/port-dover-buoys. 

For those without access to the internet, paper copies are available at any Norfolk County Public Library branch, or at the County Administration Building in Simcoe or Delhi. 

Feedback received will help inform next steps and support any future application to Transport Canada regarding changes to the VORR designation.