As of Jan. 1, anyone throwing a canoe or kayak on the top of the car and launching it at a state ramp is required to have a permit issued by the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources. DWR is in charge of enforcement.

The new law that took effect with the new year applies to four Gloucester-Mathews ramps: Tanyard Landing on the Poropotank River, Gloucester Point Landing on York River, Deep Point Ramp on the Piankatank, Warehouse Landing on Ware River, and Town Point Landing on East River.

To launch a boat at these ramps, the access permit is required, unless the boat has a current certificate of boat registration issued by DWR, or a valid Virginia hunting, fishing or trapping license, or a DWR Restore the Wild membership.

Passengers in these boats do not need a permit, just the operator. Those 16 and younger do not need permits.The permit requirement includes participants in a group trip with a kayak, canoe or tubing tour or rental company. Day permits can be purchased too...