Sunday, February 25, 2024

What Do I Need In My Boat To Be Legal

Safety Equipment For Other Vessels

Do I need to register my motorized fishing kayak?: Episode 159

Certain types of vessel are either partially or totally exempt from these requirements. Common exemptions include personal water craft and a range of unpowered and human-powered vessels such as sailboards, kiteboards, small sailing vessels, kayaks, canoes and rowboats.

Please refer to the Harbors and Navigation Regulations 2009 for further detail.

Personal Flotation Devices Are Classified By Types Indicated Below:

  • Type I: Has the greatest required buoyancy and is designed to turn most unconscious persons in the water from a face down position to a vertical or slightly backward position. The Type I PFD provides the greatest protection to its wearer and is most effective for all waters.
  • Type II: A wearable device designed to turn its wearer in a vertical or slightly backward position in the water. The turning action is not as pronounced as with a Type I, and the device will not turn as many persons under the same conditions as the Type I.
  • Type III: A wearable device designed so the wearers can place themselves in a vertical or slightly backward position. While the Type III has the same buoyancy as the Type II PFD, it has a little or no turning ability. A Type III comes in a variety of styles, colors and sizes. Many are designed to be particularly useful when water skiing, sailing, hunting, fishing or engaging in other water sports. Several of this type will also provide increased hypothermia protection.
  • Type IV: A device designed to be thrown to a person in the water and grasped and held by the user until rescued. It is not designed to be worn. The most common Type IV devices are a buoyant cushion and a ring buoy.
  • Type V: Any PFD approved for restricted use. Approved flotation devices which are partially or totally inflatable must be worn to be accepted as a legal device.

Throwable Pfds That Double As Rescue Slings

Hoisting overboard crew members back on board is challenging even in the best conditions. Extensive testing of crew overboard recovery gear in San Francisco Bay produced a clear consensus that one product, the Lifesling, is a great device for getting a person back to the boat and aboard safely. The Lifesling2 includes a flotation collar with 125′ of floating retrieving line. It can be towed to the victim so they do not need to swim after it and then used as a lifting sling . The Lifesling Inflatable combines these capabilities with the compactness and throwability of a rescue throw rope bag, inflating instantly on hitting the water.

You May Like: How To Get Mildew Out Of Boat Seats

Us Coast Guard Certificate Of Documentation

U.S. Coast Guard Vessel Documentation is a national form of boat registration. Documented vessels do not have titles they maintain Certificates of Documentation that expire in 1-5 years from issuance. Documentation provides conclusive evidence of nationality for international purposes, provides for unhindered commerce between the states, and admits vessels to certain restricted trades, such as coastwise trade and the fisheries. Since 1920, vessel financing has been enhanced through the availability of preferred mortgages on documented vessels.

A Certificate of Documentation is valid for 1-5 years from the date of issue, and must be renewed on an annual basis unless the multi-year renewal fees are submitted.

Certificates of Documentation may be renewed online via the link below:

INSTRUCTIONS FOR OBTAINING A CERTIFICATE OF DOCUMENTATION FOR YOUR VESSEL

If you have recently purchased a vessel and it already has an Official Documentation Number, please use the form for Transfer/Exchange of Documentation via the link below and be sure to upload the appropriate Bill of Sale and/or State Title:

If you are unsure if your vessel has ever been Documented by the U.S. Coast Guard, please send the Administrator an email requesting verification to: [email protected]. Please include the vessel name and Hull Identification number in your message.

Why You Need Utahs Essential Equipment Checklist:

Do I Need to Antifoul (Bottom Paint) my Boat?
  • Better to be safe, than sorry. Weather and water are unpredictable elements, even for the most advanced boater. Preparation is the key solution. Equip yourself.
  • Boat Size Matters. Let the checklists be your guide. Use the inspection checklist on board your boat before your next adventure to make sure it is all there!
  • Its the Law. Different states have different laws. Be aware that specific requirements by law that can differ by state. Abide by the laws & rules guide.

The best boating adventures are hassle free.Make your next trip safe by consulting the checklists!

Don’t Miss: How To Find Expiration Date On Banana Boat Sunscreen

Q What If I Rent A Powerboat Or Pwc

A. Currently, a Pleasure Craft Operator Card is not required in order to operatea rented watercraft. Instead, it is sufficient for a renter to complete a rentalsafety checklist. Take note however that some companies have made it their corporatepolicy to require renters to have their Pleasure Craft Operator Card.

Additional Requirements For Vessels In Unprotected Waters And Offshore

All vessels regardless of length, that are in unprotected waters more than three nautical miles from shore, except in Lakes Alexandrina and Albert, or more than five nautical miles from shore in Gulf of St Vincent or Spencer Gulf must carry:

  • one EPIRB
  • one V distress sheet.

All vessels in unprotected waters more than ten nautical miles from shore must also carry:

  • two distress rockets with parachutes
  • a map or chart of the waters in which the boat will operate.

You May Like: Banana Boat Deep Tanning Dry Oil Review

Is It Legal To Rent Your Own Boat

Anyone who has ever sailed knows how it feels to have the wind whipping your hair back and the water spraying your face.

However, there is a common misconception that you have to own a boat to enjoy it.

This isnt true anymore.

Today peer-to-peer boat rental services are becoming increasingly popular and allow anyone with an interest in sailing to rent a boat or anyone interested in making money to get renters for their boat.

Contents

  • 4 Bottom Line
  • Q Where Can I Boat With The Pleasure Craft Operator Card

    Wills in Arizona | Why do I need a Will? | Arizona Law Doctor

    A. The Pleasure Craft Operator Card allows Canadian citizens to operate their watercraftsrecreationally on all Canadian waters where permitted.

    The fines for not having your Pleasure Craft Operator Card on board with you varyprovince by province it may be as high as $250. Please check with your local enforcementdetachment for more information.

    Don’t Miss: Best Anchor For 23 Foot Boat

    Michigan Marine Law & Boater Safety

    Need a brochure to share with your fellow boaters? Download and print here.

    A complete handbook of Michigan Boating Laws and Responsibilities is available for download here.

    It is the Responsibility of the Water Craft Operator to know current laws, this information is subject to change. Visit the Michigan DNR boating safety website for the most up to date information.

    I. SPEED LIMITS

    1. Slow no wake speed within 100 feet of the shoreline, moored and anchored watercraft, pier, person, raft, swimming area, and swimmers.

    2. Maximum speed 55 m.p.h. in all water unless otherwise regulated.

    3. Michigan law states that a person operating a vessel shall operate it in a careful and prudent manner and at such a rate of speed so as not to unreasonably endanger the life or property of any person. A person shall not operate a vessel at a rate of speed greater than will permit him, in the exercise of reasonable care, to bring the vessel to stop within an assured clear distance ahead.

    4. A person shall not operate a vessel in a manner so as to unreasonably interfere with other persons lawfully using Michigans water resources.

    SLOW NO WAKE ! Means operating at a very slow to speed in order to minimize the wake created by your vessel.

    II. TOWING OF PERSONS

    1. No water skiing between one hour after sunset and one hour prior to sunrise. For a PWC , no towing between sunset and 8:00am.

    III. DISTANCE BETWEEN PERSONS BEING TOWED AND OTHER OBJECTS

    IV. COUNTER-CLOCKWISE OPERATIONS

    Before You Buy A Pleasure Craft

    Before you buy a pleasure craft in Canada, you should make sure it complies with the following requirements:

    • Hull Serial Number: Manufacturers and importers must ensure that a Hull Serial Number is placed on every boat to be sold in Canada . If you see a boat for sale that does not have the required serial number, insist that the seller get it and inscribe it before you buy.

      Hull Serial Numbers only became mandatory on 1 August 1981. Vessels constructed prior to this date will not have a Hull Serial Number.

    • Canadian Compliance Notice: Most boats sold in Canada that are powered by a motor must carry a Canadian Compliance Notice. This notice means that the boat met the departments construction standards at the time it was built.
    • Changes to the boat over time may mean that the compliance notice is no longer valid. If you are thinking about buying a used boat, make sure that it still meets the construction standards. You can hire a marine surveyor to examine the boat and let you know what changes need to be made to bring it up to the standard. You must make sure that a boat you own meets the relevant standard before you operate it.

    A Canadian Compliance Notice is not required for a vessel imported for personal use, a vessel used exclusively for racing, or a vessel of open construction built using traditional methods.

    Read Also: How To Look Up Boat Hull Numbers

    The Newtons Are Coming

    The United States Coast Guard has removed references to “Type” codes in regulations on the carriage and labeling of Coast Guard-approved personal flotation devices. However, as of April, 2019, the majority of life jackets on the market in the United States still carry U.S. Coast Guard Type-based labels, which correspond to Type I, II, III or V life jackets and Type IV throwable devices. Going forward, these Type codes will gradually be replaced with icon-based labels that give the devices buoyancy rating in Newtonswhich is a metric measurement equivalent to pounds force. Along with the rating in Newtons, other icons will indicate the limitations of use.

    Life jackets currently labeled as Type II will be eventually be replaced by life jackets with a 70 Newton rating that are capable of turning most people face-up in the water. Type III devices will gradually be replaced with 70 Newton modelswhich like current Type III models are not designed to turn the wearer face-up. Does this mean you will need to ditch your current life jackets with “Type-based” labels? No. As long as your current life jackets are serviceable and fit the intended user you will be just fine.

    Boat Licensing & Registration

    Do I Need A Separate Boating License Or Safety Certificate ...

    All pleasure craft powered by an engine of 10 horsepower or more are required to have a Pleasure Craft License issued by Transport Canada unless they have a vessel registration. The process to attain a new PCL, or to transfer one, is easy, can be done online or through the mail, and must be completed within 90 days of purchasing a boat. A PCL is free of charge and is good for ten years. If you move or any of your information changes during that time, you are responsible for updating your license information.

    You must display your PCL number on both sides of the bow of your boat above the water line and carry a copy of your card while onboard. There is a $250 fine if you are found operating a vessel without a license. You can apply to Transport Canada for a PCL.

    For boat owners who wish to have an approved name and port of registry for your vessel, register a marine mortgage, or show proof of ownership, you will want to register your boat in the Canadian Register of Vessels. There is a fee of $250 to register your vessel and $150 to transfer registration.

    For more details on registering a pleasure craft visit Transport Canada.

    Read Also: Best Deck Boats For Fishing

    Boat Items Checklist: What To Have Onboard

    Beginner boaters need to know what to always have onboard the boatthis checklist will help.

    Whether youre headed for one of the 10 best party coves in America, casting for walleye from a freshwater fishing boat, or going offshore powerboat racing, there are certain items you need to have aboard every boat. These things should be on each and every boaters checklist:

  • United States Coast Guard required safety gear
  • Additional safety gear appropriate to the type of boating you do
  • Legal documentation for the boat and captain
  • A basic first aid kit
  • Extra food and water
  • An anchor and rode
  • Basic tools or at least a multi-tool
  • A full fuel tank
  • Always, always, always make sure a full tank of fuel is on your must-have boating checklist.

    How To Go About Licensing A Boat In Bc

    Now that you are close to purchasing your first pleasure vessel, you want to make sure that you are aware of the paperwork and processes you need to go through so you can use your boat as soon as possible. When you reside in an area of Canada, such as British Columbia , the law requires that you obtain a licence for your pleasure craft before you can put it in the water. Without a licence, your boat would be in the water illegally, making you subject to high fines if you are stopped. Knowing the steps you need to take so you can go about licensing a boat in BC can help ensure that you have just what you need quickly, so you do not have to wait to enjoy your time on your boat.

    Recommended Reading: What Prop Is Best For My Boat

    Minimum Size For Fire Extinguishers

    The minimum size extinguisher in the following cases:

    • a vessel carrying not more than 115 litres of flammable liquid – 0.9 kg
    • a vessel carrying more than 115 litres but not more than 350 litres of flammable liquid – 2.0 kg
    • a vessel carrying more than 350 litres but not more than 695 litres of flammable liquid – 4.5 kg
    • a vessel carrying more than 695 litres of flammable liquid – 9.0 kg.

    Having multiple small extinguishers does not satisfy the size requirement – ie if you are required to carry a 2.0 kg extinguisher, you must carry 1 x 2.0 kg fire extinguisher, not 2 x 1.0 kg fire extinguishers. However, if you are carrying the required size fire extinguisher, you may also carry additional smaller fire extinguishers.

    Minimum Safety Equipment For Boats In Florida

    Do I need Boat Insurance?

    The Florida law states that you must have the following safety equipment for any Class A recreational boat under 16 feet in length including canoes and kayaks:

    • Boat lighting equipment

    • A sound-producing device, such as a bell, whistle or horn

    • Fire extinguishers of the right size and type for the boat

    • Visual Distress Signals if on coastal waters or high sea

    • One Coast Guard-approved Type I, II or III Personal Floatation Device for every person on board or being towed.

    If you plan to boat on a Class 1 recreational vessel ranging from 16 feet to less than 26 feet in length, you will also need the following:

    • One throwable Type IV device in serviceable condition and USCG-approved.

    • All passengers under the age of 6 must wear an approved Type I, II or III PFD while the vessel is underway.

    • Backfire Flame Control

    • If on coastal waters or high seas, you will need approved visual distress signals for nighttime and daytime use.

    These same requirements must be met for Class 2 and Class 3 recreational vessels. Class 2 and Class 3 vessels also need to have both a whistle and a bell that can be heard from one nautical mile away when operating on Federally controlled waters.

    It’s important to understand the necessary requirements for your specific boat. Fire extinguishers need to be specifically matched to the boat type and length.

    Also Check: Is Boat Insurance Required In Washington State

    Boat Safety Gear You Need Aboard To Avoid A Ticket

    Boating safety gear is no laughing matter make sure you have the appropriate items aboard your boat.

    I recently tagged along with the Maryland Natural Resources Police during a recent safety patrol to check recreational boats for proper boating safety gear. Although the specific safety gear you’re required to carry varies with the size and type of your boat, the most common items of concern could be boiled down to a list of five things:

  • Life jackets, properly called PFDs, or personal flotation devices
  • Throwable PFDS such as throw-cushions or life rings
  • Visual signaling devices, like flares
  • Fire extinguishers
  • Sound signals, such as an air horn or whistle
  • You’ll need to have a personal flotation device aboard for each person, plus a throwable. Photo courtesy of Stearns

    The Rest Of The Gear We Recommend

    The lists above will satisfy minimum requirements for operating your boat, but there are other saftey products that have proven their worth when the worst happens on the water. While these products will require a little more investment on your part, they are an investment in the safety of yourself and others on your boat. At West Marine, we are commited to making life on the water as enjoyable as possible and having the right safety gear is part of that.

    Recommended Reading: How To Choose The Right Prop For Your Boat

    There Are Some Places Only A Boat Can Take You

    Roads and highways can take you to some amazing places, but the route is the same each time, and you dont get to set it yourself. A boat lets you travel to some spectacular destinations, but the real joy is in the journey. Every trip on the water is an adventure, and its never the same one twice.

    As you think about purchasing a boat, there is a lot to consider what journeys do you want to take? The answer will help determine which boat is right for you, where to buy and store it, find out if you need to licence or register it, and when youre ready to move on, how to sell or dispose of it.

    Popular Articles
    Related news