Norwegian Lay-up Rules relaxed

It is now possible to leave a boat unattended in Norway over the winter without incurring import duty.

Following extensive lobbying particularly by the Norwegian Boating Association the Norwegian Lay-up Rules have been relaxed. An application is necessary accompanied by a letter from the yard where the boat is to be kept confirming this. Permission will normally be granted for one year and usually will be extended for a second year on application. There is no charge. The Norwegian Customs website www.toll.no gives helpful advice including an application for in English.

However, the 'six week' rule still applies; one may not leave a foreign boat unattended in Norway for more than six weeks, without making an application to Norwegian Customs.