In order to ensure that animal diseases are not imported controls are in place which rely primarily on imported animals being accompanied by health certification and being subject to post-import veterinary inspection. Implementation of import regulations is the responsibility of the port authority into which the animals are imported.

Port and harbour authorities and local authorities with coastline or inland waterways provide slipways which may be used for the launch and recovery of trailed boats.

Personal watercraft users must register their craft with the local authority in order to use its beaches or launches to launch their craft. Users will generally need to prove their competence in order to obtain a permit.

Port authorities provide access to current tidal and weather information for shipping within the local area and in national (sometimes international) waters.

An authority is responsible for monitoring navigation and berthing in waterways under their control and for ensuring regulations are complied with.

Certain vessels usually dependent upon size or cargo require to be escorted into/out of harbour by a pilot. The port authority will provide pilotage both where it is required and upon request (with sufficient notice) for other vessels.

Information on arrivals and departures at airports or ports within the local authority area. This is most often the responsibility of the port or airport operator (which can be the local authority).

When importing goods an application detailing the nature of the goods, value and unloading, storage etc. must be completed. The port authority into which the goods are to be imported is responsible for ensuring that the application has been made and that all import regulations are complied with.

All rabies susceptible animals entering the UK are required to spend six months in quarantine, unless arriving under and complying with all the conditions of the Pet Travel Scheme (PETS). The port authority is responsible for ensuring that such animals are taken directly into quarantine on arrival.

Towage by tugs is controlled by the port authority. Vessels which wish to operate as ship towage tugs are required to be licensed by the port authority having undergone the appropriate fitness inspection.