Know your local byelaws
Each area across Essex has its own set of local byelaws and there are byelaws which specifically relate to our waterways.
These byelaws are put in place to help keep people safe as well as protecting the environment, so that everyone can enjoy use of the water.
Byelaws relating to our waterways cover everything from speed limits and harbour licences, to how we behave on the water.
These are enforced by the county's local harbourmasters and councils with support from Essex Police through our specialist Marine Unit.
Breaching these byelaws can result in prosecution and fines of up to £5000.
These byelaws are put in place to help keep people safe as well as protecting the environment, so that everyone can enjoy use of the water.
Byelaws relating to our waterways cover everything from speed limits and harbour licences, to how we behave on the water.
These are enforced by the county's local harbourmasters and councils with support from Essex Police through our specialist Marine Unit.
Breaching these byelaws can result in prosecution and fines of up to £5000.
So whether you're a regular water user or just enjoy the occasional leisure trip, you need to make sure you are familiar with the local laws in place.