Safety and guidelines

Speed limits

• The speed limit is 10km/h (6 mph) in most places
• Obey all speed limit signs where posted

Inflatable vessels

• Any type of inflatable is considered a vessel when it is used for navigating and each occupant/passenger requires a life vest and safety equipment

Camping Prohibited at the St. Peters Canal National Historic Site

The St. Peters Canal National Historic Site is a protected heritage site recognized for its historical significance and its exceptional natural environment. To preserve the integrity of the site and ensure everyone’s safety, camping and overnight parking are prohibited.

Why this restriction on camping?

At Parks Canada, camping is only permitted in designated areas specifically designed to offer visitors a safe, enjoyable, and environmentally responsible experience. Camping — including sleeping in a vehicle — is prohibited in roadside rest areas, parking lots, and day-use areas, as these locations are not equipped with the necessary infrastructure to properly accommodate campers.

As such, under the Historic Canals Regulations, it is illegal to camp on the grounds of the St. Peters Canal National Historic Site, where no area is equipped to welcome campers appropriately.

What about recreational vehicles (RVs)?

The same rules apply to recreational vehicles.

Use of drones at Parks Canada places

Drone flying is a popular hobby and useful in many fields of work. However, they also pose risks and can disturb wildlife and visitors. For these reasons, Parks Canada strictly limits the use of drones.

Flying a drone without park or site approval may result in law enforcement action and a fine of up to $25000.

Never litter.

Garbage and recycling bins are located at St. Peters Canal. Please use them to dispose of your waste.

Good times in the great outdoors are safer and more rewarding when you Leave No Trace of your visit. A good rule of thumb is to leave “no trace on the place” and “no trace on others’ space”.

Magnet-fishing is a growing practice. Although presented as a means of voluntary stream clean-up, this activity is strictly forbidden in Parks Canada's historic canals, as it contravenes the Historic Canals Regulations (section 11.2).

Stirring up the bottom of the canals can not only disturb aquatic habitats but can also release contaminated sediments in certain sites with an important industrial past. Magnet fishers also expose themselves to the handling of dangerous objects such as weapons or other sharp objects, as well as potentially contaminated elements.

Historic canals are made up of various structures whose integrity can also be affected by the practice of this activity. In addition to bridges and footbridges, the canals include weirs and siphons, water and electrical conduits, and potential archaeological remains that could be damaged or destroyed by the practice of magnetic fishing.

Failure to comply with this regulation constitutes an offence and may result in fines.

• At all times, pets must be kept on a leash or in suitable confinement
• Service animals are welcome, in the company of their handlers. Please keep service animals on a leash or harness during your visit
• Don’t leave your pet unattended in a vehicle, or anywhere else during your visit to the St. Peters Canal National Historic Site.
• Wildlife, weather, and an unfamiliar environment can be scary or dangerous for your pet
• Remember to clean up after your pet

• No swimming or diving in a navigation channel or within 40 metres of a lock gate.
• Jumping from a lock gate, bridge or other structure is strictly prohibited