Stand up paddleboards, kayaks to be allowed on Bay Beach permanently
March 19, 2025 at 4:01 AM
The plan for Bay Beach in 2025 is starting to take shape, though some questions remain.
Councillors passed a report that will permanently allow stand up paddleboards (SUPs) and kayaks beginning this summer. There will be some rules around when the devices are allowed, and staff will monitor the situation and keep an eye out for any issues that may arise.
This decision had been postponed a couple times as councillors sought more information. There has also been some consideration given to user fees related to Bay Beach, with staff looking at ways to increase revenue. A report on revenue options is expected to come back to council in the next couple months.Â
During previous discussions some of the options brought up included raising the resident seasonal rate to $20 from $10, adding a non-resident fee for the boat ramp season passes, alterations to the boat ramp daily parking fee, changes to the Bay Beach parking fee schedule for both on-street and parking lots, and the institution of an overnight parking fee for the Erie Road municipal lot.
On the paddleboard front, Councillor Ann-Marie Noyes had some worries about allowing the SUPs and kayaks anywhere on the beach, suggesting she preferred a designated area. If it becomes an issue this summer, she said there could be a lag before council could enact new rules.Â
However, staff said it’s something they can monitor and attempt to use a soft approach if issues arise before passing formal restrictions.
It’s an approach that was good enough for Mayor Wayne Redekop.
“I’m quite happy to implement the changes that are recommended for paddleboarding and monitor the situation and see what transpires,” he said, adding there would be some additional challenges and work staff would have to perform if they went ahead with providing a designated space.
The new rules will allow SUPs and kayaks on Bay Beach anytime between Monday and Thursday. On weekends they’ll be allowed on the beach up to 11 a.m. and after 6 p.m. Holidays will also follow this schedule.
The Town ran a trial last year that temporarily allowed the devices. Its success led staff to recommend the new permanent allowances.
Some other improvements for the beach are also planned, including a staff relief area, plumbing improvements and better signage.
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About The Author
Luke Edwards
Luke Edwards is a longtime Niagara community journalist who has covered a variety of beats, including business, agriculture, the wine industry and politics. When not writing, there's a good chance he can be found at a baseball diamond or curling rink.
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