N.Y.S. Boating Safety Equipment and Regulations

No vessel shall be operated:

(N.Y.S. Regulations)

• Within 100 feet of shore, dock, anchored vessel or swim area at more than 5 M.P.H.
• In an imprudent or unsafe manner.
• Whose operator is intoxicated or has his ability to operate impaired by alcohol or drugs.
• By a person under age of 18 who does not possess a boating safety certificate.
• With a child under age 12 on board that is not wearing a life jacket (P.F.D.) and who is not within a fully enclosed cabin.
• Without the required equipment.
• Without the navigation lights displayed at night or during times of poor visibility.
• Within 100 feet of a diving flag.

 

No personal watercraft shall be operated:

(N.Y.S. Regulations)

• By any person who does not possess a boating safety certificate.(2004)
• By a person less than 14 years of age.
• Without all persons on board wearing approved life jackets (P.F.D.'s) that are secured, properly sized and in serviceable condition.
• In an imprudent or unsafe manner, which includes wake jumping, waiting to turn from danger until the last possible moment or weaving in and out of boating traffic.
• Without the required safety equipment.
• Between sunset and sunrise.

"Boat Safe, Boat Smart"

This is only a partial listing of New York State laws for required equipment and vessel operation regulations.

All vessel operators should enroll in a N.Y.S. boating safety course to learn the safe and lawful operation of a vessel on New York State waterways.

Listing of Boating Safety Class Providers