Kelowna council to consider changes to commercial boat launch fees

Kelowna city council is being asked Monday to approve changes to its commercial boat launch licensing program, including a new fee structure and bylaw amendments aimed at improving compliance and simplifying administration.

A report going to council recommends updates to the Parks and Public Spaces Bylaw and related enforcement rules governing commercial use of municipal boat launches.

The licensing program was introduced in 2022 to improve safety and cost recovery at city boat launches, with commercial users expected to contribute to operating and capital costs. The city set a target of about $90,000 to $100,000 annually from the program.

Since then, revenue has varied, ranging from about $61,000 to $140,000 per year, with staff noting limited compliance and concerns from operators about cost and how users are counted.