As whales return to Burrard Inlet in growing numbers, Greens say existing rules no longer reflect the reality of a shared urban marine ecosystem

VANCOUVER, BC, MAY 27, 2026 — The Green Party of Vancouver is calling on the Vancouver Park Board to support Commissioner Tom Digby’s motion to prohibit or significantly restrict motorized personal watercraft, including Jet Skis and Sea-Doos, in Burrard Inlet and near Vancouver’s beaches and waterfront parks.

The motion comes after a widely shared May 4 incident, where a Sea-Doo struck a grey whale near Stanley Park. The incident shocked Vancouver residents and made headlines across Canada and the US. It raised urgent questions about whether current rules are strong enough to protect marine wildlife in the city’s unique urban marine ecosystem.

“Burrard Inlet is not just a playground for high-speed machines. It is a living habitat,” said Green Commissioner Tom Digby, who is Chair of the Park Board. “Whales are returning to Burrard Inlet in remarkable numbers in recent years. They share the water with increasing numbers of swimmers, paddlers and sailors, while also navigating sensitive intertidal and subtidal biodiversity zones. We need safety rules that reflect that reality.”

Commissioner Digby’s motion calls for the Park Board to formally advocate for stronger restrictions on motorized personal watercraft in Burrard Inlet and adjacent near-shore waters around Vancouver parks and beaches. It would also direct staff to examine what can be done within Park Board jurisdiction, including signage, public education, boat launch restrictions, policy changes, and permit requirements.

The Green Party of Vancouver says the motion is overdue given that similar prohibitions and restrictions are already in place in Victoria, BC; the San Juan Islands; Sydney, Australia; Quebec’s North Shore; and Toronto harbour. “The Park Board cannot do this alone, but it can lead,” said Digby. “This motion sends a clear message to Transport Canada, Fisheries and Oceans Canada, the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, the Vancouver Police Department Marine Unit, and regional partners that the Park Board wants to work with you to deliver stronger protection for Burrard Inlet.”

The Green Party of Vancouver is encouraging residents to email Park Board commissioners with their support in advance of the June 1 meeting.

Motion on June 1: Prohibition and Restriction of Motorized Personal Watercraft in Burrard Inlet