Watersports Licence

In 1996 it became a legal requirement under The Activity Centres (Young Persons' Safety) Act 1995 for providers of certain adventure activities (including watersports) to undergo inspection of their safety management systems and become licensed.

This licensing scheme only applies to those who offer activities to young people under the age of 18 years and who operate these activities in a commercial manner.

Generally, licensing only applies to these activities when they are done in remote or isolated environments. For example, climbing on natural terrain requires a licence, climbing on a purpose built climbing wall does not.

Adventure activities licensing ensures that activity providers follow good safety management practices.

These should allow young people to experience exciting and stimulating activities outdoors without being exposed to avoidable risks of death or disabling injury.

If the Licensing Authority is satisfied that the provider complies with nationally accepted standards of good practice they issue a licence.

Activities covered include: