LEGAL REQUIREMENTS. Key Topics Numbering and documentation Numbering and documentation Hull...

LEGAL REQUIREMENTSLEGAL REQUIREMENTS

Key TopicsKey Topics

Numbering and Numbering and documentationdocumentation

Hull Identification Hull Identification Number Number

Age/education Age/education requirements requirements

Unlawful operationUnlawful operation

Alcohol and drug lawsAlcohol and drug laws

Obstructing navigationObstructing navigation

Homeland SecurityHomeland Security

Personal flotation Personal flotation devicesdevices

Fire extinguishersFire extinguishers

Flame arrestors, Flame arrestors, ventilation, boat ventilation, boat battery, and mufflersbattery, and mufflers

Key TopicsKey Topics

Navigation lightsNavigation lights

Visual distress signals Visual distress signals & sound producing & sound producing devicesdevices

Diver Down flagsDiver Down flags

PWC lawsPWC laws

Laws relating to towing Laws relating to towing person(s)person(s)

Waste, oil, and trash Waste, oil, and trash disposaldisposal

Reporting accidentsReporting accidents

Penalties and Penalties and enforcementenforcement

Displaying Number and DecalsDisplaying Number and Decals

Display number and decals as Display number and decals as follows:follows:

Number must be placed on Number must be placed on each side of forward half of each side of forward half of vessel.vessel.

Number must read left to right.Number must read left to right.

Numbers must be separated Numbers must be separated from letters by 2from letters by 2"" spaces or spaces or hyphens.hyphens.

Number must be in at least 3Number must be in at least 3"" high bold, high bold, BLOCKBLOCK letters of letters of contrasting color to background.contrasting color to background.

Hull Identification NumberHull Identification Number

Hull Identification Number: Hull Identification Number:

Is unique to your vessel.Is unique to your vessel.

Is typically engraved in fiberglass or on metal plate Is typically engraved in fiberglass or on metal plate attached to transom.attached to transom.

Should be recorded and put it in safe place other than Should be recorded and put it in safe place other than vessel.vessel.

Hull Identification Number Hull Identification Number (cont.)(cont.)

All vessels built after Nov. 1, 1972, must have HIN. This All vessels built after Nov. 1, 1972, must have HIN. This includes home-made boats.includes home-made boats.

If a vessel has no HIN, or If a vessel has no HIN, or it has been removed, it has been removed, obliterated, or altered, it obliterated, or altered, it must be noted in the must be noted in the application for Certificate application for Certificate of Title, and the state will of Title, and the state will assign a HIN.assign a HIN.

Who May Operate a VesselWho May Operate a Vessel

No one under age of 10 may operate a motorboat.No one under age of 10 may operate a motorboat.

A 10 or 11 year old may operate a motorboat A 10 or 11 year old may operate a motorboat only ifonly if accompanied by a parent, guardian, or a person at least accompanied by a parent, guardian, or a person at least 18 designated by the parent or guardian.18 designated by the parent or guardian.

A person at least 12, but less than 16, may operate a A person at least 12, but less than 16, may operate a motorboat motorboat only if:only if:

●Accompanied by parent, guardian, or a person at least 18 Accompanied by parent, guardian, or a person at least 18 designated by parent or guardian designated by parent or guardian or . . .or . . .

●He or she has completed a boating safety course accepted He or she has completed a boating safety course accepted by the Wisconsin DNR.by the Wisconsin DNR.

If required to complete a boater safety course you must If required to complete a boater safety course you must always carry the certificate on board the vessel.always carry the certificate on board the vessel.

Who May Operate a PWCWho May Operate a PWC

No one under age 12 may operate a PWC.No one under age 12 may operate a PWC.

A person at least 12 but less than 16 must have A person at least 12 but less than 16 must have completed a boating safety course accepted by WDNR to completed a boating safety course accepted by WDNR to operate a PWC.operate a PWC.

Operator’s course certificate must be carried on board Operator’s course certificate must be carried on board the PWC.the PWC.

No one under the age of 16 may rent or lease a PWC.No one under the age of 16 may rent or lease a PWC.

Unlawful OperationUnlawful Operation

Negligent or Reckless OperationNegligent or Reckless Operation is operating in a is operating in a manner that causes danger to life, limb, or property of manner that causes danger to life, limb, or property of any person. Examples are: any person. Examples are:

Jumping a wake with a motorized vessel within 100 feet Jumping a wake with a motorized vessel within 100 feet of another vesselof another vessel

Jumping the wake of any vessel towing a skier, tuber, Jumping the wake of any vessel towing a skier, tuber, wakeboarder, etc.wakeboarder, etc.

Operating within any area marked off or set aside as a Operating within any area marked off or set aside as a prohibited area or swim areaprohibited area or swim area

Unlawful Operation Unlawful Operation (cont.)(cont.)

Weaving your vessel through congested waterway trafficWeaving your vessel through congested waterway traffic

Operating in a manner to create hazardous wave or wake Operating in a manner to create hazardous wave or wake conditions while approaching or passing another vesselconditions while approaching or passing another vessel

Steering toward another object or person in the water and Steering toward another object or person in the water and swerving at the last possible moment to avoid collisionswerving at the last possible moment to avoid collision

Chasing, harassing, or disturbing wildlife with your Chasing, harassing, or disturbing wildlife with your vesselvessel


Improper Speed or DistanceImproper Speed or Distance is not maintaining proper is not maintaining proper speed and/or distance. Specifically, it is illegal to:speed and/or distance. Specifically, it is illegal to:

Operate at a distance from other vessels or a speed that Operate at a distance from other vessels or a speed that exceeds safe and reasonable limits given waterway exceeds safe and reasonable limits given waterway traffic, marked speed limits, weather, and other boating traffic, marked speed limits, weather, and other boating conditions conditions

Exceed speeds posted or charted in specific zone or areaExceed speeds posted or charted in specific zone or area

Operate a vessel repeatedly in a circuitous manner within Operate a vessel repeatedly in a circuitous manner within 200 feet of another vessel or person in the water200 feet of another vessel or person in the water

Operate a vessel within 100 feet of any dock, raft, pier, or Operate a vessel within 100 feet of any dock, raft, pier, or restricted area at greater than restricted area at greater than slow no wake speedslow no wake speed


Riding on Bow or GunwalesRiding on Bow or Gunwales is allowing passengers to is allowing passengers to ride on the bow decking, ride on the bow decking, gunwales or any other gunwales or any other position where there is position where there is danger of falling overboard.danger of falling overboard.


Unsafe ConditionUnsafe Condition is placing or leaving in public waters is placing or leaving in public waters any vessel not safe to operate. Law enforcement any vessel not safe to operate. Law enforcement officers may instruct operator to take immediate officers may instruct operator to take immediate corrective action or return to mooring if any of these corrective action or return to mooring if any of these “unsafe condition” exists:“unsafe condition” exists:

Vessel is overloadedVessel is overloaded

Insufficient PFDs, fire extinguishers, backfire flame Insufficient PFDs, fire extinguishers, backfire flame arrestors, ventilation, or navigation lightsarrestors, ventilation, or navigation lights

Vessel is leaking fuel or has fuel in the bilgesVessel is leaking fuel or has fuel in the bilges

Vessel CapacityVessel Capacity

Capacity plate is located near the operator’s position Capacity plate is located near the operator’s position or on the transom. or on the transom.

Indicates maximum weight Indicates maximum weight capacity or maximum capacity or maximum number of people vessel number of people vessel can safely carry.can safely carry.

Federal law requires single-hull Federal law requires single-hull vessels have capacity plate if vessels have capacity plate if less than 20 feet in length.less than 20 feet in length.

Alcohol and DrugsAlcohol and Drugs

Wisconsin law prohibits operating a motorboat while Wisconsin law prohibits operating a motorboat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol and under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slow reaction coordination, impaired judgment, and slow reaction time.time.

Alcohol contributes to about Alcohol contributes to about one-third of all boating one-third of all boating accidents nationwide.accidents nationwide.

Anyone who operates or attempts Anyone who operates or attempts to operate a vessel is deemed to to operate a vessel is deemed to

have given consent to an alcohol have given consent to an alcohol

and/drug test.and/drug test.

Alcohol and Drugs Alcohol and Drugs (cont.)(cont.)

Has blood or breath Has blood or breath alcohol concentration of alcohol concentration of 0.08% or greater 0.08% or greater or . . .or . . .

Is under the influence of Is under the influence of any controlled substance or any controlled substance or any other drug, or any any other drug, or any combination of alcohol, combination of alcohol, controlled substance, or controlled substance, or drugs that renders that drugs that renders that person incapable of person incapable of operating safely.operating safely.

Wisconsin law states that a person is considered to be Wisconsin law states that a person is considered to be under the influence if he or she:under the influence if he or she:

Obstructing NavigationObstructing Navigation

Be aware that it is illegal to:Be aware that it is illegal to:

Operate in such a way to unnecessarily interfere with safe Operate in such a way to unnecessarily interfere with safe navigation of other vesselsnavigation of other vessels

Anchor in traveled portion of river or channel preventing Anchor in traveled portion of river or channel preventing or interfering with any other vessel or interfering with any other vessel

Moor or attach vessel to buoy, beacon, light, or any other Moor or attach vessel to buoy, beacon, light, or any other navigational aidnavigational aid

Move, displace, tamper with, damage, or destroy any Move, displace, tamper with, damage, or destroy any navigational aidnavigational aid

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

All vessels must be equipped with USCGAll vessels must be equipped with USCG––approved life approved life jackets called personal flotation devices or PFDs.jackets called personal flotation devices or PFDs.

Quantity and type depends on:Quantity and type depends on:

● Length of vesselLength of vessel

● Number of people on board and/or being towed Number of people on board and/or being towed

Each PFD must be:Each PFD must be:

● In good condition and readily accessibleIn good condition and readily accessible

● Proper size for the intended wearer Proper size for the intended wearer

Vessel operators should ask everyone to Vessel operators should ask everyone to wearwear a PFD.a PFD.

Personal Flotation Devices Personal Flotation Devices (cont.)(cont.)

Type I: Offshore Life JacketsType I: Offshore Life Jackets

For rough or remote waters For rough or remote waters where rescue may take awhile.where rescue may take awhile.

Excellent for flotationExcellent for flotation——will will turn most unconscious turn most unconscious persons face up in water.persons face up in water.


Type II: Near-Shore VestsType II: Near-Shore Vests

Good for calm waters Good for calm waters and fast rescues.and fast rescues.

May lack capacity to May lack capacity to turn unconscious turn unconscious wearers wearers face up.face up.


Type III: Flotation AidsType III: Flotation Aids

Good for calm waters Good for calm waters and fast rescues.and fast rescues.

Will not turn a person Will not turn a person face up.face up.

Some designed to Some designed to inflate when you enter inflate when you enter water.water.


Type IV: Throwable DevicesType IV: Throwable Devices

Cushions or ring buoys Cushions or ring buoys designed to be thrown to designed to be thrown to someone in trouble.someone in trouble.

Not for long hours in rough Not for long hours in rough waters, non-swimmers or waters, non-swimmers or the unconscious.the unconscious.


Type V: Special-Use DevicesType V: Special-Use Devices

Designed for specific activities Designed for specific activities such as kayaking or water- such as kayaking or water- skiing.skiing.

Some designed to inflate when Some designed to inflate when you enter water.you enter water.

To be acceptable, Type V PFDs To be acceptable, Type V PFDs must be used in accordance must be used in accordance with their label.with their label.

PFD RequirementsPFD Requirements

All vessels must have at least one Type I, II, III, or V All vessels must have at least one Type I, II, III, or V USCGUSCG––approved PFD for each person on board.approved PFD for each person on board.

Vessels 16 feet or longer must also carry one USCGVessels 16 feet or longer must also carry one USCG––approved Type IV throwable device.approved Type IV throwable device.

All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and must be readily accessible.must be readily accessible.

PFD Requirements PFD Requirements (cont.)(cont.)

Federal law requires children under the age of 13 to Federal law requires children under the age of 13 to wear wear a USCGa USCG––approved PDF while underway on federally approved PDF while underway on federally controlled waters, unless in a cabin or below decks.controlled waters, unless in a cabin or below decks.

It is strongly recommended that children also wear PFDs It is strongly recommended that children also wear PFDs while on state waters.while on state waters.

Sailboarders and windsurfers are exempt from PFD Sailboarders and windsurfers are exempt from PFD requirements but are encouraged to wear a PFD.requirements but are encouraged to wear a PFD.

All persons on board a PWC or being towed behind a All persons on board a PWC or being towed behind a vessel must vessel must wearwear a Type I, II, III, or V USCG a Type I, II, III, or V USCG––approved approved PFD. PFD.

Fire ExtinguishersFire Extinguishers

Extinguishers are classified by a letter Extinguishers are classified by a letter and number symbol.and number symbol.

Number indicates the relative size of the Number indicates the relative size of the extinguisher. extinguisher.

Letter indicates type of fire it will Letter indicates type of fire it will extinguish: extinguish:

●Type A:Type A: fires of combustible solids fires of combustible solids like like

woodwood

●Type B:Type B: fires of flammable liquids fires of flammable liquids like like gasoline or oilgasoline or oil

●Type C:Type C: electrical fireselectrical fires

Fire Extinguishers Fire Extinguishers (cont.)(cont.)

All vessels are required to have a Type B fire All vessels are required to have a Type B fire extinguisher(s) on board if one or more of these extinguisher(s) on board if one or more of these conditions exist:conditions exist:

Inboard/outboard or inboard engineInboard/outboard or inboard engine

Closed compartmentsClosed compartments

Closed living spacesClosed living spaces

Closed storage compartments in which flammable Closed storage compartments in which flammable or or combustible materials may be storedcombustible materials may be stored

Permanently installed fuel tanksPermanently installed fuel tanks


Length of VesselLength of Vessel Without Fixed SystemWithout Fixed System With Fixed SystemWith Fixed System**Less than 26 ft.Less than 26 ft. one B-I one B-I nonenone26 ft. to less than 40 ft. 26 ft. to less than 40 ft. two B-I two B-I oror one B-II one B-II one B-Ione B-I40 ft. to less than 65 ft. 40 ft. to less than 65 ft. three B-I three B-I oror one B-II and one B-I one B-II and one B-I two B-I two B-I oror one B-II one B-II

** Refers to a permanently installed fire extinguisher system Refers to a permanently installed fire extinguisher system

Use this chart to determine the type and quantity required for your vessel:Use this chart to determine the type and quantity required for your vessel:


Approved fire extinguishers are identified by “Marine Approved fire extinguishers are identified by “Marine Type USCG approved” on the label, followed by size Type USCG approved” on the label, followed by size and type symbols and approval number.and type symbols and approval number.

Extinguishers must be placed in an accessible area Extinguishers must be placed in an accessible area where they can be reached immediately. Be sure you where they can be reached immediately. Be sure you know how to operate them. know how to operate them.

They must be maintained in usable condition. Inspect They must be maintained in usable condition. Inspect them regularly.them regularly.

Backfire Flame ArrestorsBackfire Flame Arrestors

Because vessel engines may backfire, all powerboats Because vessel engines may backfire, all powerboats (except outboards) fueled with gasoline must have an (except outboards) fueled with gasoline must have an approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor. approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor. Backfire flame arrestors are designed to prevent Backfire flame arrestors are designed to prevent ignition of gasoline vapors in case of engine backfire.ignition of gasoline vapors in case of engine backfire.

Backfire flame arrestors must be:Backfire flame arrestors must be:

In good and serviceable conditions In good and serviceable conditions

USGC-approved, or must comply USGC-approved, or must comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standardsstandards

Periodically clean flame arrestor Periodically clean flame arrestor and check for damage.and check for damage.

Ventilation SystemsVentilation Systems

The purpose of ventilation systems is to avoid The purpose of ventilation systems is to avoid explosions by removing flammable gases. Properly explosions by removing flammable gases. Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce chance of installed ventilation systems greatly reduce chance of a life-threatening explosion.a life-threatening explosion.

Ventilation Systems Ventilation Systems (cont.)(cont.)

All gas-powered vessels that would entrap fumes must All gas-powered vessels that would entrap fumes must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove the fumes.remove the fumes.

If vessel is equipped with power ventilation system, turn If vessel is equipped with power ventilation system, turn on for at least 4 minutes after fueling, prior to starting on for at least 4 minutes after fueling, prior to starting engine.engine.

If vessel is not equipped with If vessel is not equipped with power ventilation system, power ventilation system, open engine compartment open engine compartment and sniff for gasoline fumes and sniff for gasoline fumes before starting engine.before starting engine.

Boat BatteryBoat Battery

It is unlawful to operate a motorized vessel equipped It is unlawful to operate a motorized vessel equipped with a storage battery unless the battery is secured with a storage battery unless the battery is secured against shifting.against shifting.

Battery must be equipped with nonconductive terminal Battery must be equipped with nonconductive terminal shields to prevent accidental shorting. shields to prevent accidental shorting.

Both positive and negative terminals must be covered.Both positive and negative terminals must be covered.

Best solution is a covered battery box with a strap.Best solution is a covered battery box with a strap.

MufflersMufflers

Excessive noise can prevent a vessel operator from Excessive noise can prevent a vessel operator from hearing signals and voices.hearing signals and voices.

Exhaust must be effectively muffled.Exhaust must be effectively muffled.

It is unlawful to operate a vessel that exceeds a noise It is unlawful to operate a vessel that exceeds a noise level of 86db.level of 86db.

Use of cutouts is prohibited.Use of cutouts is prohibited.

Navigation LightsNavigation Lights

Operators must make sure vessels are equipped with Operators must make sure vessels are equipped with proper navigation lights and use them during the proper navigation lights and use them during the following conditions:following conditions:

When away from dock between sunset and sunriseWhen away from dock between sunset and sunrise

During periods of restricted visibility, such as fog or During periods of restricted visibility, such as fog or heavy rainheavy rain

Navigation Lights Navigation Lights (cont.)(cont.)

No other lights that may be mistaken for required No other lights that may be mistaken for required navigation lights may be exhibited. navigation lights may be exhibited. Blue or red flashing Blue or red flashing lights restricted to use by law enforcement vessels lights restricted to use by law enforcement vessels only.only.

Required navigation lights differ depending on type Required navigation lights differ depending on type and size of your vessel.and size of your vessel.


Power-driven vesselsPower-driven vessels less than less than 65.6 ft. long (including sailboats 65.6 ft. long (including sailboats operating under power), when operating under power), when underway, must exhibit:underway, must exhibit:

Red and green sidelights visible Red and green sidelights visible from a distance of at least two from a distance of at least two

miles (or if less than 39.4 ft. long, miles (or if less than 39.4 ft. long, at at least one mile) on a dark clear least one mile) on a dark clear night.night.


An all-round white light or both a masthead light and a An all-round white light or both a masthead light and a sternlight visible from a distance of at least two miles on sternlight visible from a distance of at least two miles on a dark clear night.a dark clear night.

The all-round white light (or masthead light) must be at The all-round white light (or masthead light) must be at least 3.3 ft. higher than the sidelights.least 3.3 ft. higher than the sidelights.


Unpowered vesselsUnpowered vessels (sailboats or (sailboats or those that are paddled, poled and those that are paddled, poled and rowed) less than 65.6 ft. long must rowed) less than 65.6 ft. long must exhibit when underway:exhibit when underway:

Red and green sidelights visible Red and green sidelights visible from a distance of at least two miles from a distance of at least two miles (if less than 39.4 ft. long, visible at (if less than 39.4 ft. long, visible at least one mile) on dark clear night.least one mile) on dark clear night.

Sternlight visible from at least two Sternlight visible from at least two miles.miles.


When underway, When underway, unpowered vesselsunpowered vessels less than 23 ft. less than 23 ft. long should exhibit:long should exhibit:

If practical, same lights as If practical, same lights as required for unpowered required for unpowered vessels less than 65.6 ft. vessels less than 65.6 ft. in length.in length.

If not practical, at least one If not practical, at least one lantern or flashlight shining lantern or flashlight shining a white light.a white light.


Between sunset and sunrise, when not underway, Between sunset and sunrise, when not underway, all all vesselsvessels are required to display a white light visible are required to display a white light visible from all directions whenever anchored away from dock from all directions whenever anchored away from dock or moored in area other than designated mooring area.or moored in area other than designated mooring area.

Visual Distress SignalsVisual Distress Signals

Visual Distress Signals (VDSs) allow vessel operators Visual Distress Signals (VDSs) allow vessel operators to signal for help in the event of an emergency.to signal for help in the event of an emergency.

VDSs must be in serviceable condition, readily VDSs must be in serviceable condition, readily accessible, and certified as complying with USCG accessible, and certified as complying with USCG requirements.requirements.

It is prohibited to display VDSs on the water, except when It is prohibited to display VDSs on the water, except when assistance is required.assistance is required.

When observing a vessel or person displaying a VDS, it is When observing a vessel or person displaying a VDS, it is your duty to stop and render aid.your duty to stop and render aid.

Visual Distress Signals Visual Distress Signals (cont.)(cont.)

VDSs are classified as: VDSs are classified as:

Day signals (visible in bright sunlight)Day signals (visible in bright sunlight)

Night signals (visible at night) Night signals (visible at night)

Both day and night signalsBoth day and night signals

VDSs are either:VDSs are either:

Pyrotechnic (smoke and flames)Pyrotechnic (smoke and flames)

Non-pyrotechnic (non-combustible)Non-pyrotechnic (non-combustible)

Pyrotechnic Visual Distress SignalsPyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals

Non-Pyrotechnic Visual Distress SignalsNon-Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals


Vessels on Vessels on U.S. coastal watersU.S. coastal waters must be equipped with must be equipped with USCGUSCG––approved VDSs.approved VDSs.

On coastal waters, all vessels are required to carry On coastal waters, all vessels are required to carry night signals when operating between sunset and night signals when operating between sunset and sunrise. Recreational vessels 16 feet or longer are also sunrise. Recreational vessels 16 feet or longer are also required to carry day signals, EXCEPT:required to carry day signals, EXCEPT:

Non-motorized, open sailboats less than 26 feetNon-motorized, open sailboats less than 26 feet

Manually propelled vesselsManually propelled vessels


If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, a minimum of three must If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, a minimum of three must be on board.be on board.

Examples that satisfy USCG requirements: Examples that satisfy USCG requirements:

Three hand-held red flares Three hand-held red flares

One hand-held red flare and two red meteors One hand-held red flare and two red meteors

One hand-held orange smoke signal, two floating orange One hand-held orange smoke signal, two floating orange smoke signals, and one electric lightsmoke signals, and one electric light

Sound Producing DevicesSound Producing Devices

All vessels, including PWCs, are required to carry a All vessels, including PWCs, are required to carry a mouth, hand, or power operated whistle or horn, or some mouth, hand, or power operated whistle or horn, or some other means to make efficient sound signal.other means to make efficient sound signal.

Other Equipment & RegulationsOther Equipment & Regulations

Diver Down Flag:Diver Down Flag: Persons scuba diving, skin diving Persons scuba diving, skin diving snorkeling, or underwater spearfishing must display snorkeling, or underwater spearfishing must display diver down flag unless within 150 feet of shore. diver down flag unless within 150 feet of shore.

Diver must stay within 150 feet of the flag. Divers may Diver must stay within 150 feet of the flag. Divers may not surface more than 50 feet from flag unless there is not surface more than 50 feet from flag unless there is an emergency. an emergency.

Vessels not engaged in diving operation must stay at Vessels not engaged in diving operation must stay at least 100 feet from the flag.least 100 feet from the flag.

Other Equipment Other Equipment (cont.)(cont.)

The diver down flags are:The diver down flags are:

Rectangular red flag, at least Rectangular red flag, at least 13” by 15”, with a white diagonal 13” by 15”, with a white diagonal stripe if on state waters.stripe if on state waters.

A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag) A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag) if on federally controlled or international waters.if on federally controlled or international waters.

Local Regulations:Local Regulations: Local waterways in Wisconsin may Local waterways in Wisconsin may also have specific equipment and operational also have specific equipment and operational restrictions.restrictions.

Requirements Specific to PWCRequirements Specific to PWC

PWC operators must obey these laws in addition to PWC operators must obey these laws in addition to allallother boating laws:other boating laws:

Every person on board PWC must Every person on board PWC must wearwear a USCG a USCG––approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD.approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD.

If PWC equipped with lanyard-type ignition safety switch, If PWC equipped with lanyard-type ignition safety switch, lanyard must be attached to person, clothing, or PFD of lanyard must be attached to person, clothing, or PFD of operator.operator.

PWC may not be operated between sunset and sunrise.PWC may not be operated between sunset and sunrise.

PWC operator must always face forwards.PWC operator must always face forwards.

Requirements Specific to PWC Requirements Specific to PWC (cont.)(cont.)

PWC may not be operated faster than slow no wake PWC may not be operated faster than slow no wake speed within:speed within:

● 100 ft. of another vessel100 ft. of another vessel

● 100 ft. of dock, pier, raft, or restricted area100 ft. of dock, pier, raft, or restricted area

● 200 ft. of shore on any lake200 ft. of shore on any lake

There are minimum age and boater education There are minimum age and boater education requirements for operators of PWC.requirements for operators of PWC.

Requirements Specific to PWC Requirements Specific to PWC (cont.)(cont.)

PWC must be operated in a responsible manner. PWC must be operated in a responsible manner. Maneuvers that endanger people or property are Maneuvers that endanger people or property are prohibited, including:prohibited, including:

● Jumping a wake with a PWC within 100 feet of another Jumping a wake with a PWC within 100 feet of another vesselvessel

● Operating within 100 feet of a vessel that is towing a skier, Operating within 100 feet of a vessel that is towing a skier, tuber, or wakeboarder or the tow rope of the vesseltuber, or wakeboarder or the tow rope of the vessel

● Weaving your PWC through congested waterway trafficWeaving your PWC through congested waterway traffic

● Steering toward another object or person in the water and Steering toward another object or person in the water and swerving at the last possible moment to avoid collisionswerving at the last possible moment to avoid collision

● Chasing, harassing, or disturbing wildlife with your PWCChasing, harassing, or disturbing wildlife with your PWC

Towing a Person LegallyTowing a Person Legally

Vessel operators towing person(s) on water skis, Vessel operators towing person(s) on water skis, aquaplanes, surfboards, inner tubes, or similar devices aquaplanes, surfboards, inner tubes, or similar devices must also obey these laws:must also obey these laws:

A person may not be towed from sunset to sunrise.A person may not be towed from sunset to sunrise.

When a vessel is pulling a When a vessel is pulling a person on water skis, person on water skis, surfboards, or similar devices, surfboards, or similar devices, an operator must have a an operator must have a competent person on board competent person on board to act as an observer.to act as an observer.

Towing a Person Legally Towing a Person Legally (cont.)(cont.)

A PWC operator may not tow a person on water skis or A PWC operator may not tow a person on water skis or other devices unless the PWC is rated for at least three other devices unless the PWC is rated for at least three people.people.

Those towing skiers on water skis, surfboards, etc. and Those towing skiers on water skis, surfboards, etc. and those being towed must act in a safe and prudent those being towed must act in a safe and prudent manner.manner.

● Vessels towing persons may not come within 100 ft. of Vessels towing persons may not come within 100 ft. of other vessels, persons, swimming area, or a public boat other vessels, persons, swimming area, or a public boat landing.landing.

● It is illegal to operate the vessel in such a way that the It is illegal to operate the vessel in such a way that the towed person collides with any other person or object.towed person collides with any other person or object.

Waste, Oil and Trash DisposalWaste, Oil and Trash Disposal

It is illegal to discharge waste, oil, or trash into any It is illegal to discharge waste, oil, or trash into any state or federally controlled waters because:state or federally controlled waters because:

Sewage carries disease and is harmful to people, aquatic Sewage carries disease and is harmful to people, aquatic plants, and animals.plants, and animals.

Trash thrown into water can injure swimmers and wildlife Trash thrown into water can injure swimmers and wildlife and plug engine cooling water intakes.and plug engine cooling water intakes.

Pollution is unsightly and takes away from enjoyment of Pollution is unsightly and takes away from enjoyment of the water.the water.

Waste, Oil and Trash Disposal Waste, Oil and Trash Disposal (cont.)(cont.)

Discharge of Sewage and WasteDischarge of Sewage and Waste

It is unlawful to place, leave, or It is unlawful to place, leave, or discharge waste or waste discharge waste or waste containers into or near any containers into or near any Wisconsin waters.Wisconsin waters.

Every vessel with installed toilet Every vessel with installed toilet must have on board an operable must have on board an operable MSDMSD——Type I, II, or III.Type I, II, or III.

All installed devices must be All installed devices must be USCGUSCG––certified.certified.

Pump-Out Station SignPump-Out Station Sign


Type III MSDs: Type III MSDs:

Simplest and most common, Simplest and most common, consists of holding tanks or consists of holding tanks or portable toilets.portable toilets.

Has least effect on the Has least effect on the environment since waste is environment since waste is discharged on shore into discharged on shore into local sewage treatment local sewage treatment facility.facility.


Types I and II MSDs:Types I and II MSDs:

Usually found on large vessels.Usually found on large vessels.

Waste treated with special chemicals to kill bacteria Waste treated with special chemicals to kill bacteria before waste is discharged.before waste is discharged.

Have “Y” valves that direct waste overboard which must Have “Y” valves that direct waste overboard which must be secured so valve cannot be opened.be secured so valve cannot be opened.


Discharge of TrashDischarge of Trash

It is illegal to dump refuse, garbage, or plastics into It is illegal to dump refuse, garbage, or plastics into any state or federally controlled.any state or federally controlled.

You should store trash in a container on boardYou should store trash in a container on board

If on federal waters, you must display 4 x 9 inch Garbage If on federal waters, you must display 4 x 9 inch Garbage Disposal placard on vessel 26 ft. or longer which notifies Disposal placard on vessel 26 ft. or longer which notifies passengers and crew about discharge restrictions.passengers and crew about discharge restrictions.


Discharge of Oil and Other Hazardous SubstancesDischarge of Oil and Other Hazardous Substances

Vessels with propulsion machinery must have capacity Vessels with propulsion machinery must have capacity to retain oil mixtures on board.to retain oil mixtures on board.

Not allowed to discharge oil or hazardous substances.Not allowed to discharge oil or hazardous substances.

Illegal to dump oil into bilge of vessel without means for Illegal to dump oil into bilge of vessel without means for proper disposal.proper disposal.

Must discharge oil waste to a reception facility. On Must discharge oil waste to a reception facility. On recreational vessels, bucket or bailer is adequate.recreational vessels, bucket or bailer is adequate.


Must immediately notify USCG if vessel discharges oil or Must immediately notify USCG if vessel discharges oil or hazardous substances into the water.hazardous substances into the water.

On federal waters, vessels 26 ft. On federal waters, vessels 26 ft. or longer must display 5 x 8or longer must display 5 x 8"" sign stating Federal Water sign stating Federal Water Pollution Control Act’s law.Pollution Control Act’s law.

Protecting the EnvironmentProtecting the Environment

Zebra Mussel:Zebra Mussel: The barnacle-like The barnacle-like mussel is a small black-and-white mussel is a small black-and-white striped valve mollusk that first striped valve mollusk that first appeared in this country in 1988 appeared in this country in 1988 and has spread throughout the and has spread throughout the Great Lakes and into the Mississippi Basin. Zebra Great Lakes and into the Mississippi Basin. Zebra Mussel poses a multi-million-dollar threat to Mussel poses a multi-million-dollar threat to agriculture, industrial, and municipal water delivery agriculture, industrial, and municipal water delivery systems and possibly sport fisheries.systems and possibly sport fisheries.

Protecting the Environment Protecting the Environment (cont.)(cont.)

To prevent spreading aquatic pests:To prevent spreading aquatic pests:

Inspect vessel and trailer, removing any nuisance Inspect vessel and trailer, removing any nuisance species you see before leaving the waterway.species you see before leaving the waterway.

Drain motor, live well, and bilge on land before leaving Drain motor, live well, and bilge on land before leaving the waterway.the waterway.

Empty bait buckets on land. Never release live bait into Empty bait buckets on land. Never release live bait into waterways or release aquatic animals from one waterway waterways or release aquatic animals from one waterway into another.into another.

Dry your boat out or power wash it before launching. Dry your boat out or power wash it before launching.

If you think you have found a Zebra Mussel, save it and If you think you have found a Zebra Mussel, save it and contact your nearest WDNR.contact your nearest WDNR.

Accidents and CasualtiesAccidents and Casualties

A vessel operator involved in an accident must A vessel operator involved in an accident must immediately stop their vessel and:immediately stop their vessel and:

Assist anyone injured or in danger from the accident, Assist anyone injured or in danger from the accident, unless doing so would seriously endanger your vessel or unless doing so would seriously endanger your vessel or passengers.passengers.

Give in writingGive in writing——name, address, and vessel name, address, and vessel identification to anyone injured and to owner of any identification to anyone injured and to owner of any damaged property.damaged property.

Accidents and Casualties Accidents and Casualties (cont.)(cont.)

A vessel operator is required to make an oral and a A vessel operator is required to make an oral and a written report whenever a boating accident results in:written report whenever a boating accident results in:

Loss of life or disappearance of a person Loss of life or disappearance of a person or . . .or . . .

Injury to any person Injury to any person or . . .or . . .

Property damages exceeding $2,000Property damages exceeding $2,000

Oral reports must be made immediately to a Oral reports must be made immediately to a conservation warden or a local law enforcement conservation warden or a local law enforcement officer. A written report must be made within 10 days.officer. A written report must be made within 10 days.

EnforcementEnforcement

Wisconsin DNR officers and all other peace officers Wisconsin DNR officers and all other peace officers enforce the boating laws of Wisconsin. USCG officers enforce the boating laws of Wisconsin. USCG officers also patrol and have enforcement authority on also patrol and have enforcement authority on federally controlled waters.federally controlled waters.

They have the right to stop and They have the right to stop and board vessels in order to check board vessels in order to check for compliance with state and for compliance with state and federal laws.federal laws.

It is illegal to refuse to follow It is illegal to refuse to follow the directive of a person with the directive of a person with law enforcement authority.law enforcement authority.

LEGAL REQUIREMENTS. Key Topics Numbering and documentation Numbering and documentation Hull...

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