Delta now has legislation in place to regulate usage of Ladner Harbour and the Elliott Street wharf.
Civic politicians recently approved a new bylaw regulating the use of the wharf.
Earlier this year, the Corporation of Delta took over the operation of the wharf, which was previously leased to Kaymaran Adventure Tours, with the aim of making it fully accessible to the public, including offering shortterm boat moorage.
"The bylaw really gives the municipality the power to regulate derelict vessels and unpaid moorage," said Ken Kuntz, Delta's director of parks, recreation and culture.
The municipality took over the operation of the wharf June 1 and did not have any bylaws in place to assist in regulating usage.
"The process to date has largely relied on the good nature of users and, as a last resort, court action to resolve issues," Kuntz stated in a report to council.
"These approaches, while generally effective, can be cumbersome and expensive when dealing with chronic offenders."
The bylaw will help manage inappropriate actions, such as waste dumping or people living aboard a vessel.
