Boat Permits



Obtain a Boat Permit

Permits are required for all boats in Norfolk’s Reservoirs, including canoes, kayaks and motorized boats.

The 2026 Boat Permits are available for purchase at the Customer Service Counter at Norfolk City Hall and 

Oceans East Bait & Tackle. See below for contact information.


City Code for using the Reservoirs

View the City of Norfolk Code (PDF) that relates to the use of the reservoirs.  Please read before purchasing a Boat Permit.

Permits by Mail

Permits are available by mail. You can download and print the file (PDF). Please call 757-664-6700 for more information.

The annual and daily boat permits are available for purchase at the following locations:

Department of Utilities

810 Union Street, Suite 101
(Inside City Hall)
Norfolk, VA 23510

Phone: (757)-664-6700

Hours

Monday - Friday: 8am - 4:30pm

Oceans East Bait & Tackle

5785 Northampton Boulevard
Suite 104
Virginia Beach, VA 23455

Phone: (757)-464-6544

Hours

Monday - Thursday: 6am - 8pm
Friday - Saturday: 4:30am - 8pm
Sunday: 4:30am - 6pm

Rate Schedule

Boat permits are valid January 1 through December 31. There is no provision for pro-rating the cost of the permits.

Permit TypeFee
Norfolk Residents$20
Non-Norfolk Residents$40
Seniors (62 and over)$10
Daily Permit$5 / day