What your mooring fee covers and your obligations as a live aboard licensee in Bristol Harbour.
What your fee covers
- Berthing: a designated berth for your named vessel, with permission to live aboard nightly during the licence period. This is typically one year.
- Access: use of the quayside, paths, and communal facilities where provided, for you, your household, guests, and trades people.
- Utilities: connection to services, such as electricity and water where available. Usage charges may apply.
- Harbour services: general maintenance, regular liaison meetings, and potential relocation for operational needs with notice.
Your responsibilities
- No exclusive rights: berths are allocated and may be reassigned by the council.
- Licence only: this is not a tenancy and does not confer property rights.
- Council tax: if your vessel is your sole or main residence, you may be liable for council tax. This is determined by the Valuation Office Agency (VOA).
Check your status or appeal a listing. - Keep your vessel clean, watertight, and serviceable.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Maintain valid marine insurance and a boat safety certificate.
- Vessel must be self-propelled.
- Fire safety: approved fire extinguishers and heating systems only.
- Vessel must be your only or main residence. Tell the council about any extended absences.
- The licence is personal and does not transfer with sale of the vessel.
Prohibited activities
- Running a business from the vessel or mooring.
- Storing items or parking on the quayside.
- Using generators between 9pm to 8am, or diesel generators at any time.
- Causing nuisance, obstruction, or environmental harm.
- Altering or defacing the mooring.