General Information
The City of Charleston permits various events at Haddad Riverfront Park for the purpose of providing entertainment, to attract tourism, and to provide opportunities for people to take advantage of one of our greatest assets - our downtown riverfront area. These events include Live on the Levee (link ‘Live on the Levee’ text to https://liveontheleveecharleston.com/), the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta (link ‘Charleston Sternwheel Regatta’ text to https://charlestonregatta.com/) and many others.
This article sets forth guidelines and conditions for the permitting and licensing of boaters to safely utilize designated electric power sources which may, at the city's discretion, be made available to boaters attending these events.
For code information, click here (via Municode Library)
For 2025 boating regulations and event dates, click here (Updated May 9, 2025)
2025 Special Event Boating Regulation for Charleston Sternwheel Regatta, click here (Updated May 9, 2025)
| License | Watercraft Size | Term | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class A | 40 feet in length or greater | 2025 Season | $100 |
| Class B | Less than 40 feet in length | 2025 Season | $100 |
| Class C | Any Length | Single Event | $25 |
| Class D | Any Length | Special Permission | To Be Determined By City Manager |
To obtain your boating permit, you must visit the City Manager’s office located at City Hall at
501 Virginia Street East
Suite 101
Charleston, WV 25301
You must provide the following when filling out your boating permit:
- Driver’s License
- Current proof of insurance showing liability coverage
- Payment for boating permit (Cash and Checks payable to City of Charleston accepted.We are unable to accept online payments at this time.)
The City Manager’s office is open Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Questions about your boating permit or regulations? Please call 304-348-8014 or e-mail Tommie Harless at tommie.harless@cityofcharleston.org
Please allow up to one week for your boating application to be processed.