New byelaws come into force to improve safety on Loch Lomond

Changes to the Loch Lomond Byelaws come into force today (Friday 1st November) to further improve public safety and reduce irresponsible behaviour on the loch. 

The byelaws, which manage safe and responsible use of Loch Lomond, were recently reviewed by Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority and a 12-week public consultation was held on proposed changes. 

The byelaws were strengthened as a result of that process and key changes being enforced from today include: 

• Under 16s must wear life jackets or buoyancy aids when on any moving vessel. This includes boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and any other vessel on the water (whether it has an engine or not).
• You now need to register in advance with the National Park Authority if you intend to be in charge of a vessel with an engine (including jet skis). The person in charge is the person responsible for the way the vessel is being used, whether they’re steering or not. There only needs to be one registered user on board at all times when moving. 
• New 6kph slow-speed zones are now in force at Balloch Castle Country Park, Duck Bay, Manse Bay, Milarrochy Bay, Luss, Sallochy and Rowardennan. These zones are marked by 6kph buoys and mean you need to stay below 6kph (equivalent to a slow walking pace). 
• It is now an offence to damage, remove or tamper with public rescue equipment such as emergency rescue life rings or throw lines. 
• If someone under 16 takes out a vessel with an engine and breaches a byelaw, the registered owner or owner will be guilty of an offence.  
• The boundary line marking the 11kph speed zones to the south of Inchtavannach, Inchmoan and Inchcruin islands has changed – users must slow down to 11kph (equivalent to a fast walking pace) by the time they pass through the buoys marking the boundary. 

A new online registration system is being introduced to make it easier for owners to register vessels with an engine (including jet skis).  The same system will be used to register people who intend to be in charge of a vessel that is not registered to them.   Further information on this new system will be shared by January 2025.  

Anyone who intends to be in charge of a vessel with an engine that is not registered to them, before 31st January 2025, should contact Duncan Mills Memorial Slipway on 01389 722030/info@lochlomond-trossachs.org 

In the meantime, owners who are already registered with the National Park Authority do not need to take any action. 

Kenny Auld, Head of Visitor Services at Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority said: “The new Loch Lomond Byelaws are an important tool for promoting public safety and responsible enjoyment of Loch Lomond, which is used by a range of different groups, from wild swimmers and water sports enthusiasts to anglers and local businesses. 

“Our Ranger Team patrols Loch Lomond on a daily basis and while the vast majority of engagement with loch users is positive, it is also important to have an effective deterrent to irresponsible behaviour.  

“There have been increased concerns about disturbance, antisocial behaviour and safety risks on Loch Lomond in recent years and the changes coming into force today are aimed at addressing those concerns so that Loch Lomond can be enjoyed safely by the thousands of people who spend time here every year.” 

National Park Rangers have already been engaging with visitors and loch users to increase awareness of the new byelaws and help them understand what they need to do to comply with them.  This will continue during the quieter winter months and there will be further activity in time for the peak visitor season in 2025. 

The Loch Lomond Byelaws were introduced in 1996 and are required by law to be reviewed at least every 10 years.  The changes coming into force today were developed following a thorough and inclusive review process, involving consultation with local stakeholders, the wider public and legal counsel. 

The new set of Loch Lomond Byelaws can be viewed on the National Park Authority website 

Hard copies are available at National Park Headquarters in Balloch, Duncan Mills Memorial Slipway in Balloch and Balmaha Visitor Centre.