BOATsmart! Canada
Knowledge Base

A radar reflector is a metallic device that is used to identify the position of your boat to other vessels equipped with radar. They are required for boats that are under 20m in length, and boats that are built of mostly non-metallic materials.

The radar reflector should be suspended above all equipment and as high as possible.

A radar reflector is not required if: 

• It is impractical to mount on your boat
• Traffic conditions are limited and no other vessels use radar
• You are operating during daylight hours in good weather conditions
• The use of a radar reflector is not essential for safe operation of your craft