City officials said it was decided to change the system for those who use city facilities to launch commercial canoe, kayak or paddleboard operations.
There previously was an RFP system.
That will be replaced with a permitting process.
Travis Kazierzak, city open spaces official, said some who wanted to operate such a program might miss the limited time for filing an RFP and have to wait until next year.
He said a permit application can be for any time.
The permit will cover a calendar year and cost $250.
There are seven city launching points with one at the Market Street Bridge the most used.
Mr. Kazierzak said there is discussion of forming a parks advisory board. One of its functions would be to hear appeals regarding the new permitting process.
He said there would be two "outdoors advocates" from each of the nine council districts.