Tax Bulletin
http://www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/documents_library/bulletins/sst_114.pdf
http://www.sbr.gov.bc.ca/documents_library/bulletins/ctr_001.pdf
When to Pay PST
Generally, you pay PST on the purchase of a new or used boat in British Columbia.
You also pay PST on any accessories that come with the boat, such as a motor, a trailer
or water sport equipment. You pay PST on the total amount of the purchase, including
any delivery charges, but not including the goods and services tax (GST).
If you buy a boat privately and the seller does not charge you PST, you self-assess the
PST. To self-assess the PST, complete a Payment of Social Service Tax Due or Claim for
Exemption on the Purchase or Lease of a Boat form (FIN 132) and forward it to the ministry,
along with a copy of the bill of sale and payment for any PST owing.
To ensure that PST has been paid on all taxable boats, the ministry routinely reviews the
records of Transport Canada and matches changes in registered ownership with PST
payments. Therefore, when you register a taxable boat, you may be contacted by the
ministry to confirm that you paid the PST.
Boat Trailers
Boats and trailers are often purchased together. If you did not pay PST to the seller, the
Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) will charge the PST when you license
the trailer. Keep your receipt and the Transfer/Tax Form (APV9T) from ICBC as proof
that you paid PST.