Broughty Ferry Code of Practice for Water Users

The Tay estuary is a beautiful location used by many people for a wide range of activities and is home to an abundance of wildlife. Everyone can play a role in helping to keep the waters around Broughty Ferry a fantastic place for everyone to enjoy.

Please keep to the designated operational zones and follow this Code of Practice when on and around the water - Be Safe. Be Responsible. Be Considerate.

Be Safe – Ensure your own safety and do not endanger other people or wildlife.
Be Responsible – Follow the byelaws, signage and Code of Practice.
Be Considerate – Be courteous to other water users, wildlife and the local community.

Download the full Code of Practice (includes map of operational zones for craft).

All users of mechanically propelled watercraft within the Tay must comply with the designated launch areas, areas for operation, speed limits and exclusion zone as advertised and displayed.

Note: The area east of the East Slipway launch channel up to 400m from shore is off-limits to powered craft.

Byelaws

All water users must adhere to the Dundee Port Authority (General) Byelaws 1984 and Port of Dundee General Directions. Water users must also familiarise themselves with local Notices to Mariners. These documents can be viewed on Forth Ports website.

Safety Checklist

In an emergency contact Coastguard on 999 or 112.

All water users:

Always check the weather, currents and tide times before entering the water.
Let someone ashore know your plans and expected return time.
Always carry means of calling and signalling for help.
Do not approach vessels navigating the shipping channel.
Do not endanger other water users or wildlife.
If you fall into the water unexpectedly Float to Live. (Fight your instinct to thrash around, lean back, extend your arms and legs, and float).
Beware of the cold, enter the water slowly and wear a well-fitting wetsuit.
Be visible if you are in the water (e.g. wear bright clothing, hi-vis swim cap, stay in groups)

All craft:

Always wear a lifejacket and carry the correct safety equipment.
Get the right level of training for your craft.
Always check engine and fuel levels.
All craft should carry a VHF radio and maintain a listening watch for navigational and traffic updates on channel 12 and 16.
Inform everyone on board of emergency procedures.
Look out for swimmers and small craft, pass them slowly.

Be Responsible

Keep noise and wake to a minimum so as not to impact on people and wildlife nearby.
Access points and slipways should be kept clear at all times.
Prevent litter, bin it responsibly or take it home.

Watch out for wildlife

The Tay is a fantastic place to enjoy wildlife but please give it space. Let wildlife choose how close it wants to get, don’t approach closely or chase, and if you have to pass by, go slowly.

Intentional or reckless disturbance or harassment of marine mammals is an offence punishable by a fine of £10,000 and/or up to 12 months imprisonment. Reports of such incidents should be made to Police Scotland on 101.

The Scottish Marine Wildlife Watching Code provides guidance on how to watch marine animals without causing harm or disturbance.

If you find a stranded marine mammal contact:

British Divers Marine Life Rescue (if found alive) – 01825 765546
Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (if found dead) – Please see https://strandings.org/report/

Broughty Ferry Code of Practice for Water Users

Related Links

Dundee City Council