Local Boating Laws and Regulations

When you are boating in a new area, you are responsible for knowing the laws and regulations that apply. These may be posted at the launch ramp, or may be obtained from the local boating authority. The requirements may be statewide, or only apply to the waters on which you are boating. An informed boater who abides by the laws and regulations of the area is a safe boater.

In addition to state law, many counties, cities and districts have special laws or ordinances, which restrict activities in certain areas, prohibit certain acts at certain times, or establish additional requirements. These ordinances may regulate speed, set aside certain hours for special purposes, and prohibit acts which would be contrary to public interest.

In some boating areas, local laws regulate how close PWCs may come to other boats without slowing down. Others regulate the hours of operation and the required distance between a PWC and another boat or the shore. From state to state the minimum age a person must be before they can operate a PWC varies, as does the training required. Know the rules before you get underway. Abiding by the laws is responsible sharing of the waterways and will reduce PWC related conflicts.