POLICING measures have been ramped up at Loch Lomond following the increase in “dangerous” and “aggressive” behaviour from some boat and jet ski users, which is causing a “significant threat” to public safety.
The Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority has said it is introducing new measures and increasing patrols in response to a “marked increase” in antisocial behaviour by some visitors to the area.
New measures being enforced from this week include the introduction of CCTV on National Park Authority patrol boats, an increase in Ranger resources on the loch and shoreline in hot spot areas such as Luss and Duck Bay.
It comes after the park authority recorded a 429% surge in Loch Lomond Byelaw non-compliance cases submitted to the Procurator Fiscal between 2025 and June 2026.
The authority added that 95% of all cases submitted to the Procurator Fiscal on Loch Lomond in 2026 have involved jet skis, prompting the introduction of CCTV on patrol boats and other increased enforcement measures.
Gordon Watson, chief executive of Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park Authority, said that some people’s behaviour at Loch Lomond has been “completely unacceptable” and that the authority is “fully prepared” to consider stronger measures.
“While the majority of visitors enjoy the National Park responsibly, the reckless behaviour of this growing group of jet ski users is a serious concern, with a real risk of injury or worse,” he said.
“It's completely unacceptable and won't be tolerated. Our Rangers will have an increased presence this weekend, and our boat patrols will now be recording footage of any concerning behaviour to support prosecutions – in recent weeks fines have already been issued.”
The Loch Lomond Byelaws, which were reviewed in 2023, include speed-restricted areas and other measures to manage safe and responsible use of Loch Lomond.
The 429% increase in Loch Lomond Byelaw non-compliance cases reflects a wider trend of worsening behaviour across the National Park, the authority said, adding that there has been a 96% increase in non-compliance cases raised across the Loch Lomond Byelaws, Camping Management Byelaws and Environmental Protection Act with the Procurator Fiscal since 2025.
Offences include excessive speed and reckless manoeuvres, which the park authority says posed not only a “significant nuisance” but also a risk of serious injury or death to other loch users.
Extreme water disturbance is also causing shore erosion and disturbing wildlife on Scotland's iconic loch, while local communities and businesses face consistent disturbance and disruption.
Watson said: “The Loch Lomond Byelaws were introduced to ensure different types of loch users could enjoy this special place together, in harmony with the natural environment and local communities who are proud to call the National Park home.
“The byelaws were reviewed in 2023, and we took proportionate steps to strengthen them, including additional very low (6kph) speed-restricted areas at popular lochshore locations to improve safety.
“However, if further action is necessary to prevent these reckless behaviours and protect public safety, we are fully prepared to consider stronger measures.”
He added: “We're grateful for the support of Police Scotland and the local authorities as we work together to introduce these new strengthened interventions, and we strongly urge all users to enjoy the loch safely, responsibly and respectively this summer.”
Police Scotland superintendent Lynsey Booth added that the force is working with the park authority due to the increase in reports of dangerous and reckless behaviour involving jet skis and boats on Loch Lomond.
She urged visitors to the park that if they fear that people are using the loch in a way that places people in immediate danger or presents a threat to life, they should contact police immediately by calling 999.
Booth added that video footage, photographs, or information such as registration details can also provide “valuable evidence” in supporting enquiries into those misusing the loch.
“Where criminality is identified, police enquiries will be carried out and, where appropriate, action taken against those responsible,” Booth said.
“We would also encourage anyone using jet skis or other powered vessels to ensure they are familiar with and comply with the byelaws and registration requirements which are in place to keep everyone using the loch safe.”
