What type of obstructions or hazards is Transport Canada responsible for?
The term obstruction as it relates to Transport Canada is defined as any structure, vessel, or thing – or part of any thing, which may interfere with the public right of navigation in any navigable waterway. Obstructions fall into one of five categories: • A structure, part or ruin of any structure; • A wreck or abandoned vessel or part thereof; • Pollutants or garbage; • Debris such as fallen trees, deadheads, floating wood, or dead animals; • Natural things such as submerged rocks or shoals. Transport Canada/NWPP is responsible for Categories 1 and 2 obstructions that are not of natural origin. Categories 3, 4, and 5 are the responsibility of the province, municipality or other government agency.
