When I was there many many moons ago there were protests about the number of motorboats allowed in the canals. (Not ambulances, etc. - just the convenient taxis and such). The wake generated by powerboats was responsible for eating away the waterside foundations over time, they were seeking to limit the number and speed.
I also have a picture somewhere where an entire short stretch of neighbourhood canal is coffer-dammed and drained and the stonework being repaired. Plus, there were areas where the large pavement stones had been lifted to snake thick power lines and water piping (and sewers, I presume) under the pavement. The services are a little challenging, and stringing anachronistic modern wires overhead is a no-no.
You can uses any automobile you want in Venice.
Once.
I think it is a totally charming to visit, but I couldn’t handle living in that environment. I guess I’m a dyed-in-the-wool landlubber. LOL
Bicycles aren’t even allowed in Venice, with the exception for small children.
There is a punt service to get vehicles around the canals.,
Suppose a building needs a plumber, and the plumber really wants to have his work vehicle there
Here’s how to get a truck based service into venice’s canal area.
They cannot allow trucks to traverse the footpaths as they were never constructed to carry heavy vehicles, and there is no reason to allow a passenger vehicle that justifies the danger of allowing it. (the pedestrian might assume there is no motorised traffic in the area. )
But if the work has to be done, then there is a way to get a truck in. Not sure if they can put it up onto the footpath ? or have the punt parked there while the work is done ?
Venice garbage collection… Venice Garbage Truck Boat - YouTube