Pleasure boats

Licences must be obtained from the local authority for the operation of pleasure boats to be let for hire to members of the public, or to be used for carrying passengers for hire. The licensing authorities are the district county borough and London borough councils. The licensing requirement supplements an existing power available to local authorities to make byelaws in respect of pleasure boats. See also the recreational Craft Regulations 1996 (SI 1996/1353).

The requirement to hold a licence does not apply to boats or vessels licensed under Board of Trade Regulations or to those on a canal or other waterway owned or managed by the British Waterways Board.

Licences will not be issued to persons under 18 years of age. The pleasure boat must comply with any Authority or statutory conditions.

There are currently no licences in force within the West Lindsey district.

Will Tacit Consent Apply?

No. It is in the public interest for reasons of public safety that the authority must process your application before it can be granted (Completion period 28 days). If you have not heard from the local authority within a reasonable period, please contact it. You can do this online if you applied through the UK Welcomes service or use the contact details below.

Failed Application Redress

Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.

If you wish to appeal against a decision you may do so two days after the decision to your local Magistrates’ Court.

Licence Holder Redress

Please contact your Local Authority in the first instance.

If you wish to appeal against a decision you may do so from two days after the decision to your local Magistrates’ Court. You must give 24 hours notice of your intention to appeal.

Consumer Complaint

We would always advise that in the event of a complaint the first contact is made with the trader by you - preferably in the form a letter (with proof of delivery). If that has not worked, if you are located in the UK, GOV.UK has information on consumer rights. From outside the UK contact the UK European Consumer Centre.

Other Redress

Such as noise, pollution or similar.

Also should one licence holder complain about another.

Trade Associations

Association of Leading Visitor Attractions (ALVA)