Border officials clarify issues, By TRINA SEVERSON, Staff Writer

Officers from Canada Border Services Agency met in Fort Frances Sunday with members from the Rainy Lake Conservancy. The officers were invited to answer questions from RLC members regarding such issues as current seasonal resident tariff regulations and Remote Area Border Crossing permits.

Agency superintendent Doug Cuthbertson and enforcement liaison Jennifer Silver replied to several questions and distributed literature concerning visitors to Canada and seasonal residents.

Q and A with the Canada Border Services Agency

Q: What are the reporting, documenting and time frame requirements for seasonal residents regarding household goods listed in our original declaration document?

A: There seems to be a huge amount of confusion on making a settlers landing if you purchased property in Canada and are a U.S. citizen. When you are coming up to your property for the first time, you are allowed a one-time list of goods that you have had for at least six months that you can bring to your cabin in the future. Make a list of goods in your home that you might want to furnish your cabin with, such as a fridge, power tools or other used stuff. It can’t be new stuff, and you can’t add to your form after you’re done. The items must also match the description. You can’t replace goods that are on the form. These items are then checked off as they arrive — you do not pay duty on these things that are listed.

Q: Do you require a permit if you leave your cottage (in Canada) and go fishing in Canada?

A: Bring your permit with you just in case. It’s only a piece of paper. In itself it is an alternate means of priveledge granted to U.S. citizens to enter Canada or for Canadian citizens to exit and return without checking in.

Q:  What is the rule for reporting goods, including low-value goods, on the phone-in system?

A: Whether you are a Canadian owner or U.S. owner of property on Rainy Lake,  if you purchase any good it must be reported. When you are crossing by water you still need to call. We will give you a entry number. If you’re stopped you will be within the rules and regulations because you have that entry number. In the event you are not given a number when you call, ask for one. And if you cross at the border, ask the officer there to stamp your receipt.

Q: What alcohol and cigarette exemptions do U.S. citizens have when coming to Canada by boat?

A: You are allowed one carton (200 count) of cigarettes and one bottle (40 ounces) of liquor. However, there are no exemptions if you go and return on the same day. It’s the same for Canadians who may go to Sha-Sha and bring a bottle back.

Q: Do guests staying for only for two or three days need a RABC permit?

A: People crossing without a border cross permit are subject to a fine of $1,000 each. There are marine reporting stations at the Sorting Gap Marina and Rainy Lake Sports and Tackle (Can-Op) gas station. Phones available there and an officer can come down and clear them.

Q: What is the miminum age that requires a RABC permit? Some of us have grandchildren that accompany us.

A: Everyone must report regardless of age, so it’s important that all (minors) have a note of permission (from their parent or legal guardian) if children are with you. They can get one by mail in January or come down to the Border offices with them, since they can’t be on your RABC permit if they’re not your legal child. You will need additional verification other than a parent’s signature — you should also have a  note from parents granting you temporary guardianship so that if (the child) needs medical attention you can sign for them, and so that we know that the parents are aware the kids are with you.

Q: What if we’re going from the United States to Kettle Falls and we are in and out of Canada as we navigate?

A: As long as you’re moving along the border, there’s no problem with navigating on both sides in the event of inclement weather. If you’re stopped by a marine unit, tell them you’re navigating — if it’s weather related we would like to think our officers will have enough flexibility to allow for that for safety reasons.

For more information, call the Border Information Services line at 204-983-3500 from outside Canada, or toll-free at 800-461-9999 from within Canada. Or, visit the Web site at www.cbsa.gc.ca.