Minnesota_DNR_Boating_Guide.pdf

MINNESOTA

Boating Guide 2020

Life jackets save lives. Wear it!

MINNESOTA BOATING GUIDE 2020

Enjoying Minnesota’s lakes and rivers by paddle or motorboat is a wonderful privilege. That privilege comes with serious responsibilities. Fun boating is safe boating, so please read this guide thoroughly and contact the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) with any questions you may have.

This book summarizes Minnesota’s boating laws and regulations. It does not present the actual laws and regulations. Laws and regulations are subject to change by the Legislature and through public hearings.

Boaters may also be subject to federal and local rules and restrictions. For boating information and more information regarding state laws and regulations, contact the DNR Information Center.

500 Lafayette Road St. Paul, MN 55155-4040 651-296-6157 888-646-6367

Email: info.dnr@state.mn.us mndnr.gov/boatingsafety

For watercraft registration and titling questions: mndnr.gov/licenses 651-296-2316

For federal boating laws visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s boating safety website:

uscgboating.org

Front cover photo courtesy of:

National Safe Boating Council mailto:info.dnr%40state.mn.us?subject=Minnesota%20Department%20of%20Natural%20Resources http://mndnr.gov/boatingsafety http://mndnr.gov/licenses http://uscgboating.org

LIFE JACKETS SAVE LIVES.

Top Five Boating Safety Tips

• Wear your life jacket — And make sure children wear theirs.

• Stay sober — Booze and boating don’t mix.

Alcohol is the #1 factor in boating fatalities.

• Tell a friend — Tell someone where you’re going and when you will be back. If you’re not back, they should call 911. Bring a phone or VHF radio.

• Be weather aware — Don’t let a storm sneak up on you — delay your trip or head to shore. Go slow in rough water to avoid capsizing.

• Boat smart — Take a boating safety course.

Know your boat; stay alert while scanning for dangers; stay seated and low in the boat to prevent falls overboard.

STAY ALERT — STAY ALIVE

IMPORTANT NOTES FOR 2020

• New carbon monoxide law requires certain motorboats to install carbon monoxide detectors and warning stickers by May 1, 2018. (Pg. 15)

• “Little Alan’s Law” went into effect on August 1, 2018. Drivers convicted of a DWI will face additional charges no matter what type of vehicle they were operating during the event.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Boating in Cold Water

Licensing Your Boat License Procedures and Fees Hull Identification Number License Certificate and Numbering Expiration and Renewal Duplicate Licenses Transfer of Ownership Destroying or Abandoning Your Boat Dealer’s License Collector Watercraft Watercraft Titling

Required Equipment Carbon Monoxide Detector Life Jackets Whistles/Horns Navigation Lights Fire Extinguishers Ventilation Flame Arrestors Mufflers/Noise Limits Marine Toilets Protect Your Waters

General Operation Enforcement Age of Operators Navigation Rules Move Over Law Waterway Markers — Aids to Navigation ... 32 On the Water Laws and Rules Capacity and Overloading Boating While Impaired (BWI) Towed and Wake Sports Personal Watercraft Renting Watercraft Accidents

Other Water Activities Paddling Scuba Diving Swimming Areas Temporary Structures, Docks and Buoys Special Events Public Waters and Water Appropriation Permits Aquatic Plant Management Permits

Local Boating Restrictions

Boat Trailers

Boating Emergencies Rescue Breathing for Drowning Victims... 56 Falling Overboard Capsizing or Swamping Cold Water Propeller Injuries The “Circle of Death”

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning

The Drowning Machine

Float Plan

Boating Courses

Boating on Lake Superior Visual Distress Signals

Security

Public Water Access

Wildlife Management Areas

Sunken Boats and Vehicles

Sunrise and Sunset

Agency Directory

Operator Float Plan

Free Publications ................ Inside back cover

BOATING IN

COLD WATER

RESIST THE URGE TO

FIGHT THE WATER: REST

AND RECOVER.

If wearing a life jacket, the 1-10-1 principle may save your life:

1 minute

• Get breathing under control.

10 minutes of meaningful movement

• Assess the situation and make a plan.

• Perform most important functions first, such as locating other party members.

• Self-rescue if possible.

• Signal or call for help.

1 hour (or more) of useful consciousness

• Focus on slowing heat loss.

LICENSING YOUR BOAT

All motorized watercraft regardless of length and nonmotorized watercraft over 10 feet must be licensed by the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). The types of watercraft that must be licensed include, but are not limited to, motorboats, rowboats, sailboats, sailboards, stand-up paddleboards, canoes, kayaks, paddle boats, rowing shells or sculls, all-terrain vehicles used in the water and inflatable craft.

Exceptions to this law are as follows:

• Watercraft currently registered in another state and not kept in Minnesota for more than 90 consecutive days, or a watercraft owned by a person from another state that does not require licensing of that type of watercraft and it is not within Minnesota for more than 90 consecutive days.

• Watercraft from a country other than the United States and not kept in Minnesota for more than 90 consecutive days.

• Watercraft owned by the United States government or other specified governmental units, except those boats used for recreational purposes.

• Watercraft documented with the United States Coast Guard (official papers on craft 5 net tons or larger are issued by the Coast Guard instead of state registration).

• A ship’s lifeboat.

• Waterfowl boats used during the waterfowl hunting season, rice boats used during the harvest season and seaplanes.

• Nonmotorized watercraft 10 feet in length or less.

LICENSE PROCEDURES AND FEES

Register your watercraft in person at any deputy registrar of motor vehicles (where you license your car); at the DNR License Center in St. Paul; or renew online at mndnr.gov/licenses.

http://mndnr.gov/licenses.

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When you register your boat you will need to provide:

• The boat length, which is the straight-line distance from the bow (front of the boat) to the stern (rear of the boat). Bowsprits, outboard motor brackets, rudders and other attachments are not included in the measurement.

• Boat’s manufacturer.

• Type of hull material (wood, metal, or plastic).

• Type of propulsion.

• Boat model.

• Boat year.

• Hull identification number (HIN).

• Paddleboards do not require a HIN.

• Sales receipt that shows you have paid the sales tax.

Watercraft licenses cover a period of three calendar years and expire on December 31 of the last year the license is valid. The expiration date appears on both the license certificate and on the validation decals which are applied to the boat.

HULL IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

A hull identification number (HIN) or serial number is vital in registering and titling your boat.

HINs can be found on all boats manufactured since model year 1973. The letter-number combination is typically about 12–17 digits long (example:

ABC12345L402). HINs are usually found on the right side of the stern or transom of the craft on the outside and may be stamped into the fiberglass or aluminum or appear on a separate plate.

Location may vary slightly on pontoon boats, personal watercraft, kayaks, canoes, etc.

Boats built before November 1972 should have a shorter serial number somewhere on the craft.

LICENSE CERTIFICATE AND NUMBERING

If you apply for a new boat registration or renew an existing one in person at a deputy registrar (where you license your car) or the DNR License Center, you will receive your boat license decal and registration card on the spot.

If you apply through the mail, it will probably take several weeks before you receive your decal and card.

Sign your license and keep it on board your watercraft. If you are operating a nonmotorized watercraft, you don’t have to carry the license with you. However, if an enforcement officer asks to see it, you must produce it within a reasonable time.

The license number issued to your boat appears on the license card and must be displayed as follows:

• Numbers must be placed on each side of the forward half of the hull (see illustration on page 10).

• Remove the expired decals first, before applying the new ones.

• The license number must be displayed on your boat as it appears on your license card.

• Letters and numbers must be at least 3 inches high.

• Letters and numbers must be of a block character.

• The MN should be separated from the numbers by a 3-inch space.

• Letters should be separated from numbers by a 3-inch space.

• Must contrast with the background.

• Can be either painted or attached to the craft.

• Should read from left to right and must always be legible.

• The current license decal is always placed closer to the stern within 4 inches of the license number.

The license number which appears on your watercraft license card must be displayed on your boat as shown below:

MNDN

R

MNDNR

MNDNR

MNDNR

If your canoe, kayak, paddleboard, rowing shell, paddle boat, sailboard or sailboat does not have a motor, a license decal is all that is required. No 3-inch numbers are necessary. Place the decal on each side of the forward half of the nonmotorized craft as shown below:

The owner of rented watercraft may keep the license certificate at the rental location. The rental business must be printed on both sides of the rear half of the watercraft in letters at least 3 inches high.

No other number, letter, or design may appear within 24 inches of the license number or decal.

On sailboards, paddleboards and nonmotorized sailboats, you may place the decals on the stern. Only do this if it is impossible, because of the boat’s design, to place them on the bow. For inflatable or foam paddleboards, attach decals to a placard attached to the paddleboard.

Decal placement

Decal

If your canoe or sailboat is motorized, affix the 3-inch letters and numbers as previously described for other motorized craft. The square decal should be placed to the stern or to the rear of the number (see page 10).

EXPIRATION AND RENEWAL

All watercraft licenses expire on Dec. 31 of the last year the license is valid.

When you obtain your new license certificate and validation decals, discard your old license certificate and replace the expired decals on your boat with the new ones. Remember, only the current set of decals must be displayed.

DUPLICATE LICENSES

If a license is lost or destroyed, stop by your local deputy registrar of motor vehicles office or the DNR License Center 651-296-2316, 800-285-2000 or mndnr.gov/licenses.

To apply by mail, write to the DNR License Center. Be sure to sign your name on the letter and include the registration number, description of the boat and the hull identification number (HIN).

The fee for a duplicate license is listed on the watercraft license fee chart on page 7.

TRANSFER OF OWNERSHIP

If you buy a boat that is currently licensed in Minnesota:

• Obtain a bill of sale from the previous owner. If boat is titled, obtain the watercraft title certificate.

• Send or deliver it, along with an application for transfer and the transfer fee listed on http://mndnr.gov/licenses.

the fee chart on page 7, to the DNR License Center or deputy registrar.

• Transfer applications must be made within 15 days after the transfer actually occurs.

• The transferred registration is valid only for the time remaining on the previous owner’s registration. Then you must renew your license.

• Sales between private parties do not require payment of sales tax.

DESTROYING OR ABANDONING

YOUR BOAT

If you destroy or abandon your watercraft — or if you license it in another state — notify the DNR License Center 651-296-2316 within 15 days.

DEALER’S LICENSE

Boat and motor dealers, wholesalers and manufacturers may apply for a dealer’s license for watercraft used for demonstration purposes or for purposes necessary to conduct business. A dealer will be issued only one number. This number must be displayed on both sides of boats used for these purposes, however, and may be detachable.

This number must be removed before sale.

COLLECTOR WATERCRAFT

Owners of watercraft that were built before July 1, 1959, and used solely as a collector’s item, have the option of displaying the boat registration number and current decal on the forward half of the boat, placed on both sides on a detachable plate or board.

The number size, type and decal placement is the same as noted on pages 9–12 of this guide.

WATERCRAFT TITLING

Certain watercraft over 16 feet are required to be titled in Minnesota.

A watercraft title provides proof of ownership, which becomes very important when buying or selling a boat. A title also protects businesses that make boat loans, and aids in the recovery of stolen watercraft.

Exceptions to this law are watercraft:

• Currently registered in another state and never used in Minnesota for more than 90 consecutive days.

• Manufactured before Aug. 1, 1979.

• 16 feet or less in length.

• Rowboat with oar locks and an outboard motor less than 40 hp.

• Documented with the United States Coast

Guard (official papers on craft 5 net tons or more are issued by the Coast Guard instead of state registration).

• Canoe, kayak or ship’s lifeboat.

• Waterfowl boats used during the waterfowl hunting season, rice boats used during the harvest season and seaplanes.

• Owned by a manufacturer or dealer and is held for sale.

• Used by a manufacturer for testing purposes only.

• Owned by a resort or recreational camping area licensed by the Minnesota Department of Health.

• Rowing shell or scull.

• Owned by the United States, a state or a political subdivision.

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT

CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) DETECTOR

Sophia’s Law requires that all recreational motorboats, including sailboats with motors, with enclosed compartments be equipped with a functioning marine CO detection system and/or display three CO poisoning warning stickers as of May 1, 2018.

Full details and requirements can be found at mndnr.gov/boatingsafety.

LIFE JACKETS

The following are life jacket requirements in Minnesota:

• State law requires children under 10 years old to wear a properly fitted life jacket while a boat is underway. Underway means not securely fastened to a permanent mooring or tied to a dock.

• A readily accessible and wearable life jacket is required for each person onboard a boat, this includes canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, paddleboats and waterfowl boats.

• One Type IV throwable is required on boats 16 feet or longer (except canoes and kayaks) and must be immediately available.

• Personal watercraft operators and passengers must each wear a life jacket.

FOR YOUR SAFETY, WE STRONGLY

RECOMMEND EVERYONE ON BOARD

WEARS A LIFE JACKET AT ALL TIMES.

http://mndnr.gov/boatingsafety

Check the label on the life jacket to make sure it is a U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation device and how to safely use it.

The following are exempt from state life jacket carriage laws:

• sailboards

• rowing team members specified in law and accompanied by a chase boat carrying the required life jackets

MANDATORY

CHILD LIFE

JACKET

WEAR LAW

Minnesota law requires a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket to be worn by children less than

10 years old when aboard any watercraft while underway. Underway means not attached to a permanent mooring or tied to a dock.

There are exceptions to the wear law for:

• children who are below the top deck or in an enclosed cabin.

• children aboard passenger vessels being operated by a licensed captain.

• children on a boat that is anchored for the purpose of swimming or diving.

Some infants are too small for any life jacket, even though the label may say 0–30 pounds. In general, babies under 6 months or 16 pounds are too small for a life jacket to be effective due to the size of their head compared to their body.

If your infant is under 6 months old or 16 pounds, please wait until the baby is a little older before taking them boating.

NOTE: Fastening a boat cushion to a car seat is not considered a lawful flotation device for an infant and could trap the baby underwater if your boat capsized.

WEARABLE LIFE JACKET TYPES

There are four types of wearable life jackets approved for use on recreational boats:

Off-Shore Life Jacket (Type I) is a vest or yoke-type device generally found on commercial craft. It is designed to turn most unconscious persons from a face downward to a face up position in the water.

Near-Shore Buoyant Vest (Type II) usually looks like a horse collar and is worn like a bib. It has an unconscious turning ability similar to the Type I, but it will not turn as many persons under the same conditions.

Flotation Aids (Type III) are usually foam-filled and come in several colors and styles, including full-sleeved jackets.

Type III devices may also include inflatable life jackets.

Type IIIs are not designed to turn an unconscious victim, but they do provide protection against exposure to cold water.

Special Use Devices (Type V) are designed and approved for use during particular activities. Type Vs include some inflatable life jackets, duck hunting flotation coveralls, and flotation aids made for sailboarding and whitewater rafting. The label will indicate any restrictions that apply to the particular device. Some Type Vs must be worn to be counted in the total number of life jackets on board your boat.

Inflatable Life Jackets are U.S. Coast Guard approved for boaters 16 years and older. Inflatables have the advantage of being comfortable and easy to wear.

Once inflated, the flotation is equal to or greater than traditional life jackets.

Inflatables do have some disadvantages:

• Must be inflated to provide flotation.

• Do not provide as much cold water protection.

• Require regular maintenance and rearming after inflation.

Some inflatable life jackets are required to be worn in order to be counted as one of your U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable flotation devices — check the label for indication. Inflatables are not approved for use on personal watercraft or while water-skiing or similar sports. Always read the label for intended use and follow any restrictions.

Before purchasing, make sure that “U.S.

Coast Guard Approved” is visible somewhere on the package or on the device itself.

THROWABLE FLOTATION AIDS

Throwable Devices (Type IV) - buoyant cushion, ring buoy or horseshoe buoy — are designed to be thrown to a victim in the water, rather than worn.

Cushions should be checked often to see if they are in serviceable condition. One Type IV throwable is required on boats 16 feet or longer (except canoes and kayaks) and must be immediately available.

OTHER FACTS ABOUT LIFE JACKETS

• The life jacket must be of the appropriate size for the intended wearer.

• “Readily accessible” means easily retrievable within a reasonable amount of time in an emergency. Life jackets in sealed bags, under heavy objects or in locked containers are not accessible.

• “Immediately available” means Type IV throwable devices must be easily reached in time of an emergency. Generally this means in the open, not in a container.

• A label stating “U.S. Coast Guard approved” must be printed on or attached to the device and you must follow all restrictions on it.

• All life jackets must be in serviceable condition, meaning free of tears, rot, punctures and waterlogging. All straps, zippers and buckles are present and in good shape.

• A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket must be worn by a person being towed on any device, or be carried in the towing watercraft.

• A U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type V device may be substituted for any other approved device if it meets the same requirements and is noted on the Type V device (i.e. “Equivalent to an approved Type III device”).

WHISTLES/HORNS REQUIREMENTS

• Motorboats 16 feet to less than 26 feet long must be equipped with a hand-, mouth-, or power-operated whistle or horn capable of producing a continuous sound for two seconds and audible for at least one-half mile.

• Motorboats 26 feet to less than 40 feet long must be equipped with a hand- or power-operated horn or whistle capable of producing a continuous sound for two seconds and audible for at least one mile.

• Motorboats 40 feet or longer must be equipped with a power-operated horn or whistle capable of producing a continuous sound for at least two seconds and audible for at least one mile.

• The only boat that can carry a siren is a government patrol craft.

NAVIGATION LIGHTS

Navigation lights must be on from sunset to sunrise.

MOTORBOAT NAVIGATION LIGHT

REQUIREMENTS

Most motorboats 16 feet or longer will likely be equipped with the correct navigation lights by the manufacturer. Only U.S.

Coast Guard-approved lights will meet the following requirements.

Motorboats less than 65 feet long while underway, including sailboats operating under engine power, require lights that are:

• Either separate 112.5˚ red and green side lights or a combination 225˚ red and green bow light. (A)

• A 225˚ masthead white light on the forward half of the boat, placed at least 3 feet above the red-green lights, showing 112.5˚ to each side and visible for three miles. (B)

Less than 65 feet long.

• On boats 40 to 65 feet long, this light (B) must be at least 9 feet above the gunwale.

• A 135˚ white light on the stern half of the craft showing 67.5˚ to each side. (C) This light may be carried off the center line.

• When at anchor, only one 360˚ white light is necessary.

OPTIONAL: Motorboats less than 40 feet long while underway, including sailboats operating under engine power, may follow the lighting requirements below or the requirements listed in the previous section:

• Either separate 112.5˚ red and green side lights or a combination 225˚ red and green bow light. (A)

• A 360˚ white stern (rear) light. When at anchor, only the 360˚ white light is necessary. (D)

NONMOTORIZED BOAT

NAVIGATION LIGHT

REQUIREMENTS

• Must at least carry a white lantern or flashlight.

• Light should be strong enough so that other boats around the horizon can see it at least two miles away.

• Light must be displayed in sufficient time to avoid a collision with another watercraft.

• Canoes, sailboats, etc., that are operating under power must follow the lighting rules for motorboats.

VISIBILITY RULES

• White lights must be visible for 2 miles on a dark, clear night (with one exception under the International Rules).

• Combination or side lights must be visible for 1 mile.

• Combination or side lights must shine red to port (left side) and green to starboard (right side).

• Combination lights must be attached so the light shows from directly ahead to 22.5˚ to the rear of the beam (midpoint of the boat) on the respective side.

• Lights may be detachable and need only be displayed from sunset to sunrise.

LIGHTING NOTES

• Check navigation light sockets and wiring for corrosion.

• Boats on waters subject to U.S. jurisdiction may also display navigation lights under current federal inland regulations.

• All accessory lighting such as docking lights, spotlights or accent lights must not impact navigation light visibility as required by law.

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS

All fire extinguishers must be U.S. Coast Guard approved, fully charged, and readily accessible.

Motorboats carrying or using fuel or other flammable fluid in an enclosure are required to have a Type B, U.S. Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher(s) on board.

Fire extinguishers are required as follows:

For boats under 26 feet with enclosed engine, fuel tanks or other spaces:

• 1 size B-I fire extinguisher required.

For boats 26 feet up to 40 feet:

• 2 size B-I or 1 size B-II fire extinguisher(s) required.

For boats 40 feet up to and including 65 feet:

• 3 size B-I or 1 size B-II and 1 size B-I fire extinguishers required.

For boats over 65 feet:

• 3 size B-II fire extinguishers required.

Additionally:

• When a motorboat is equipped with a

U.S. Coast Guard-approved fixed fire extinguishing system in the engine compartment, one less B-I extinguisher is required.

• Enclosed engines and fuel tanks are generally found on inboards or stern drives and also on larger outboard boats with built-in fuel tanks.

• Open outboard boats with unenclosed portable fuel tanks and no floorboards, decking, a cabin or other spaces that could trap fuel vapor are not required to carry an extinguisher. However, it is a good idea to carry one.

• Approved types of fire extinguishers are identified by the following marking on the label — “Marine Type USCG Approved” — followed by the type and size symbols and the approval number.

VENTILATION

Motorboats carrying or using any fuel that has a flashpoint of 110 degrees or less (gasoline) in any compartment must be equipped with an efficient ventilating system to remove combustible gases.

This system must consist of at least one intake duct that extends from the deck below the level of the carburetor air intake (or halfway to the bilge) and an exhaust duct that extends from the deck to the lowest portion of the bilge. The cowls of these ducts must be properly trimmed for maximum ventilation.

A power-operated bilge blower is highly recommended and it should be run at least four minutes before starting the engine.

FLAME ARRESTORS

Gasoline engines, other than outboard motors, must be equipped with a U.S. Coast Guard-approved backfire flame arrestor on the carburetor.

MUFFLERS/NOISE LIMITS

• All watercraft motors must have a muffler, underwater exhaust, or other device that suppresses the sound of the motor to levels noted on page 26.

• It is unlawful to modify, equip, sell or operate a motorboat (except under a permit from the county sheriff or U.S.

Coast Guard) that exceeds the levels noted on page 26.

• It is illegal to sell or have an altered muffler, muffler cutout, muffler bypass, or any other device designed or installed so that it can be used to continually or intermittently bypass any muffler or muffler system, or to reduce or eliminate the effectiveness of a muffler or muffler system.

NOISE LEVEL TESTING

Pass-by Test: Noise level test usually performed at a distance of 50 feet–an equivalent reading may be taken at other distances.

• Boats manufactured before January 1, 1982: 84 dBA

• Boats manufactured January 1, 1982 and after: 82 dBA Stationary Idle Test: Noise level test taken at 4 feet above the water and at least 4 feet behind the transom of the boat.

• Boats manufactured before January 1, 1982: 86 dBA

• Boats manufactured January 1, 1982 and after: 84 dBA

Officers and deputies may use either or both of these tests at their discretion.

MARINE TOILETS

Under state law, toilets on board watercraft must be no-discharge devices. Waste must be retained on board for proper disposal after returning to shore.

PROTECT YOUR WATERS

By taking a few simple steps, you can help protect Minnesota’s lakes and rivers from zebra mussels and other aquatic invasive species.

Aquatic invasive species (AIS) cannot move across the land without help, but when given a lift they can spread almost anywhere.

Everyone who recreates in Minnesota’s lakes and rivers has an important role in preventing the introduction and spread of AIS.

Take these actions required by law:

• CLEAN all visible aquatic plants, mud and debris off your boat, trailer and other water-related equipment before leaving a water access or shoreland property. It’s illegal to transport prohibited invasive plants or animals, whether dead or alive.

• DRAIN water-related equipment (boat, ballast tanks, portable bait container, motor) and drain bilge, livewell and baitwell by removing drain plugs before leaving a water access. Keep drain plugs out and water-draining devices open while transporting watercraft.

• DISPOSE of unwanted bait, including minnows, leeches, worms and fish parts in the trash. It’s illegal to release live bait into a water body, dump worms on the ground or move aquatic animals or water from one water body to another.

Whenever possible, also take these recommended actions:

DRY everything before going to another lake or river, especially if your boat has been in the water or moored for more than 24 hours or if you have recently been in waters infested with zebra mussel or spiny waterflea.

To further decontaminate your boat and equipment, do one or more of the following:

• Spray with high-pressure water.

• Rinse with very hot water. The following water temperatures will kill zebra mussels and some other AIS: 120˚F for at least 2 minutes or 140˚F for at least 10 seconds.

• Dry for at least 5 days.

MN 4316 AD

Check these places on your boat and trailer and remove aquatic plants and animals:

(A) anchor and lines; (B) livewell; (C) transom well; (D) hull; (E) rollers (F) axle (G) lower unit/ propeller.

There is also a risk of spreading AIS by other water recreation. Take these additional precautions when engaging in the activities below:

Sailing Clean aquatic plants, animals and debris from hull, centerboard or bilgeboard well, rudderpost, trailer and other equipment before leaving the water access.

Personal Watercraft

• Avoid areas with aquatic plants before trailering personal watercraft.

• Run engine for 5–10 seconds on the trailer to blow out excess water and vegetation from internal drive, and then turn engine off.

• Clean aquatic plants, animals and debris from hull, trailer, water intake grate and steering nozzle before leaving water access.

Report new infestations If you suspect a new infestation of an aquatic invasive plant or animal, note the exact location, take a photo or keep the specimen.

Then contact your local DNR AIS specialist at 888-646-6367 or 651-259-5100. Visit mndnr.gov/AIS for more information.

Affirmation In 2016 an AIS affirmation was added to new watercraft and nonresident fishing licenses.

License applicants are required to affirm they have read and understand a provided summary of AIS laws. No fees are associated with the affirmation. Learn more at mndnr.gov/affirmation.

GENERAL OPERATION

ENFORCEMENT

DNR’s conservation officers and county sheriff deputies enforce Minnesota’s boat and water safety laws. All state and county enforcement craft will be marked on both sides or with a blue state pennant. Some waters of the state are also under federal jurisdiction. The U.S. Coast Guard and the National Park Service enforce federal boating regulations.

Whenever enforcement officers contact you, you are required to stop and allow them to come alongside. The officer may warn you about a storm or caution you about the way you’re operating your boat. Always remember that a key job of these officers is to ensure your safety afloat.

Violation of a boat and water safety statute or rule is a misdemeanor, with some exceptions for repeat violations or more serious offenses.

Boaters on some waters may be able to request assistance by using a marine radio. Examples of these areas are Lake of the Woods, Lake Superior, the Lower St. Croix River, Mississippi River downstream from Minneapolis, Minnesota River downstream from Shakopee and Lake Minnetonka.

AGE OF OPERATORS

• You can obtain an operator’s permit by successfully completing the Minnesota, NASBLA-approved boating safety course.

It is available at mndnr.gov/boatingcourse.

• If you are age 12–17, visiting Minnesota, and already possess a valid watercraft operator’s certificate/permit issued by your home state, you don’t need to obtain another one from Minnesota.

• If you do not have a certificate from your state, you may obtain one from Minnesota by successfully completing the DNR’s boating safety course. It is available at mndnr.gov/boatingcourse.

• We recommend that adults take the Minnesota boating course to enhance their knowledge and safety.

• Many boat insurance companies offer discounts to boat owners who have taken an approved boating safety course.

MOTORBOAT OPERATOR

AGE RESTRICTIONS

(Personal watercraft see page 43)

OPERATOR

AGE

RESTRICTIONS

LESS THAN

12 YEARS

• 25 hp or less–no restrictions.

• More than 25 through 75 hp–must have someone at least 21 years old on board within immediate reach of the controls.

• More than 75 hp–not allowed to operate even with an adult on board.

http://mndnr.gov/boatingcourse

OPERATOR

AGE

RESTRICTIONS

12 –17

YEARS

• 25 hp or less–no restrictions.

• More than 25 hp–must either have:

– a watercraft operator’s permit, or

– someone at least 21 years old on board and within immediate reach of the controls.

NAVIGATION RULES

Passing

• When overtaking another watercraft going in the same direction, the craft being overtaken must maintain course and speed.

• The passing watercraft must keep a sufficient distance to avoid collision or endangering the other craft from its wake.

Meeting

• When two watercraft approach each other

“head-on,” each must alter course to the right to avoid collision.

• If the two watercraft are far enough to the left of each other, no change in direction is needed for safe passage. Both watercraft will maintain their course and speed to pass clear of each other.

• Keep to the right in narrow channels.

Crossing If two watercraft approach each other at a right angle, the watercraft to the right shall have the right-of-way.

Nonmotorized Craft Nonmotorized craft (sailboats, canoes, etc.)

have the right-of-way over motorized craft in all situations, except when the nonmotorized craft is overtaking or passing.

Commercial Vessels Small craft shall not insist on the right-of-way when in the path of large commercial vessels, which are limited in maneuverability.

Emergency Craft All watercraft will yield right-of-way to an authorized watercraft displaying a red or blue flashing light.

MOVE OVER LAW

When approaching and passing a law enforcement watercraft with its emergency lights activated, the operator of a watercraft must safely move the watercraft away from the law enforcement watercraft and maintain a slow no-wake speed while within 150 feet of the law enforcement watercraft.

WATERWAY MARKERS — AIDS

TO NAVIGATION

Waterway markers show navigable channels, denote unsafe areas, direct traffic, control speed, protect resources and serve other functions.

Official markers are usually placed by the U.S. Coast Guard, state, county or local governmental unit. Private markers of any type may not be placed in the water overnight without a permit from the county sheriff.

If a buoy or sign is lighted, it will usually display the color and flash characteristics noted on

FLASHING GREEN FLASHING RED

FLASHING WHITE QUICK-FLASHING

WHITE

following pages. “Flashing” means not more than 30 flashes per minute. “Quick-flashing” means at least 60 flashes per minute and generally indicates caution or danger.

Channel Marker Buoys

• All-green and all-red companion buoys indicate that the boating channel is between them.

• Red buoy is on the right side of the channel when facing upstream.

Signs can be substituted. For example, a green square sign is the same as a green buoy and red triangular sign is the same as a red buoy - these are often called “daymarks.” They can be used to mark each side of a channel, which is common on the Mississippi River below the Twin Cities. A red-white octagonal sign can be used to mark the center of a channel.

Red and white and black and white buoys

• Red-white striped buoys (usually with a red topmark) indicate the center of a channel and should be passed closely on either side.

• Black and white striped buoys (formerly red-white striped) indicate there is a shoreward obstruction and that you should not pass between it and the nearest shore.

QUICK-FLASHING

WHITE

FLASHING WHITE

FLASHING WHITE

FLASHING WHITE

Regulatory Buoys and Signs Boats Keep Out – A white buoy or sign with an orange diamond and cross means that boats must keep out of the area.

Black lettering on the buoy or sign gives the reason for the restriction, for example, SWIM AREA.

Danger – A white buoy or sign with an orange diamond warns boaters of danger - rocks, dams, rapids, etc. The source of danger will also be lettered in black. In winter, ice hazards may also be identified with this marker in the form of a sign.

Controlled Area – A white buoy or sign with an orange circle and black lettering indicates controlled or restricted areas on the water. The most common restriction is slow no-wake speed. Slow no-wake means operating your boat at the slowest possible speed necessary to maintain steerage, but in no case greater than five miles-per-hour.

Information – A white buoy or sign with an orange rectangle provides the boater with information or directions.

Information will be lettered in black.

FLASHING WHITE

Mooring Buoys – Buoys designed for mooring boats are all-white with a blue stripe midway between the top and the waterline. A minimum of 16 square inches of white reflector, part of which must be visible from any direction, is required on all mooring buoys. (Obtain a permit from the county sheriff before placing a mooring buoy in the water.)

Here are some tips on waterway markers:

• Waterway markers, especially buoys can move off station due to wind, waves, current, ice or other reasons.

• Buoys and other waterway markers may not be present outside of the normal boating season. Check locally before heading out.

• Red and green channel markers may be numbered: green (odd) and red (even).

• Size specifications for buoys:

– For all buoys except mooring buoys, the minimum height above water is 36 inches and the minimum diameter is 9 inches.

– For mooring buoys the maximum size is 24 inches in diameter, if spherical, or a maximum of 24 inches wide if some other shape. Mooring buoys must extend at least 8 inches above the water.

ON THE WATER LAWS AND RULES

It’s against the law:

• To operate a watercraft in a careless or reckless manner.

• To operate a watercraft so its wash or wake endangers, harasses, or interferes with any person or property.

• To operate a watercraft so it obstructs ordinary navigation.

• To operate a watercraft within an area legally marked off as a swimming area, or within 150 feet of a diver’s warning flag (see page 48).

• To ride or sit on the gunwales, bow, transom, or decking over the bow, sides or stern of any motorboat while underway, unless it is equipped with an adequate railing. It is also illegal to operate a motorboat while any person is riding or sitting in a manner as just listed.

• To chase wildlife with a motorboat, or operate a boat where it is prohibited – including marked spawning beds. Avoid traversing any emergent or floating vegetation, if possible.

• To intentionally obstruct a seaplane.

• To attach a watercraft to any buoy, except a mooring buoy, or to tamper, remove, or destroy a navigational aid.

• To deposit or leave refuse in or upon the waters of the state or at public access areas.

CAPACITY AND OVERLOADING

The boat’s operator must limit the total horsepower, weight and maximum number of passengers to that shown on the capacity plate installed by the boat’s manufacturer.

It is unlawful and dangerous to load or power your boat beyond its maximum capacity. Capacity is reached by either the maximum number of people or maximum weight, whichever is met first.

BOATING WHILE IMPAIRED (BWI)

• Operating a motorboat while under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance (or its metabolite), or other harmful substances is unlawful.

• Operators who are impaired may be required to take tests by an enforcement officer to determine the presence of these substances. There is a penalty for refusal.

BWI convictions and refusals are recorded on the violator’s driver’s license record.

Most of the BWI law is found in the motor vehicle statutes. The alcohol concentration for impaired operation is .08.

First time violators (no prior DWIs of any kind) who are convicted are subject to:

• Up to a $1,000 fine plus surcharges.

• Possible jail time.

• Loss of motorboat operating privileges for

90 days during the boating season, after conviction and written notification by the DNR.

In addition to the above penalties, those who refuse testing will also be subject to a separate and more severe criminal charge for refusal and loss of their motorboat operating privileges for one year, immediately upon refusal.

If any of the following aggravating factors are involved, the offense automatically becomes a gross misdemeanor (a fourth conviction in 10 years can result in a felony penalty):

• An alcohol concentration of .16 or more.

• Prior DWI convictions or refusals of any kind in the past 10 years.

• A child less than 16 years old is on board the motorboat.

Penalties will increase with any of the aggravating factors or a refusal, and can include the following:

• A higher fine.

• Mandatory jail time.

• Loss of motor vehicle driver’s license.

• Loss of motor vehicle plates.

• Forfeiture of the motorboat and trailer being operated at the time of arrest.

The BWI law does not prohibit drinking alcoholic beverages aboard boats nor having an open bottle. The BWI law applies to operators of motorboats that are not anchored, beached, moored, docked or being rowed or propelled by nonmechanical means at the time of the offense.

TOWED AND WAKE SPORTS

Laws and Rules

• It is unlawful to make a wake for a wake surfer or tow a person on water skis, wakeboard, tube, or similar device unless there is a mirror providing the operator a wide field of vision to the rear, or unless another person in the towing watercraft is continuously observing the person wake-surfing or being towed.

• Water-skiing, tubing, wake-surfing and similar acts are prohibited between one-half hour after sunset to sunrise of the following day.

• Tow ropes may not be longer than 150 feet in length, unless a permit is obtained from the county sheriff.

• A wearable U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket must either be worn by the person being towed, or carried in the towing watercraft.

For regulations on towing people with a personal watercraft (Jet Ski, PWC, etc.) — see page 41. Also, there may be local restrictions on towing (especially in the Twin Cities area) — see page 54.

Tubing The maneuvers of the tow boat affect tubes in a way that is similar to a clock’s pendulum.

Riders do not have the directional control that water skiers have, so the boat operator needs to take special precautions.

Accidents are most often caused by:

• The tube hitting a wake and flipping, throwing the rider(s) into the water or against each other.

• Tubes swinging out as a boat turns–hitting an object or throwing the occupant off.

• Injuries caused by the tow line and when two tubes being towed by the same boat collide with each other.

Towed and Wake Sports Safety Tips

• Keep speeds low (most tube manufacturers recommend a maximum of 15–20 mph) to reduce the likelihood and consequences of an accident.

• Make turns gradually and away from shore, other boats, swim rafts or docks, to reduce the chance of collision and property damage.

• Tow only a single tube at a time.

• It is critical that everyone being towed wear a life jacket.

• It is also a good idea to have an observer in the towing craft, in addition to a wide-angle mirror.

• Stay back at least 20 feet behind the boat to avoid carbon monoxide exposure.

95 MN 1234 AB

• Many manufacturers also recommend that no one under 6 years old be towed on a tube, and that you follow the manufacturer’s recommended passenger weight limits.

Own Your Wake Large wakes produced by some watercraft operated at certain speeds can cause a number of negative impacts, including:

• Shoreline erosion, which results in impaired water quality and property loss.

• Damage to others’ property, including docked boats.

• Hazards to public safety both on the water (swimmers, paddlers) and on shore.

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT

Personal watercraft (PWC) are also known as Jet Skis or Wave Runners. Personal watercraft is defined by law as a motorboat that is:

• Powered by an inboard motor powering a water jet pump or by an outboard or propeller-driven motor.

• Designed to be operated by a person or persons sitting, standing, or kneeling on the craft, rather than in the conventional manner of sitting or standing inside a motorboat.

All personal watercraft are considered motorboats and therefore, any regulations that govern other motorboats (such as fishing boats, cabin cruisers, etc.), also govern personal watercraft.

Personal Watercraft Laws In summary, the law requires that:

• Anyone operating or riding on a personal watercraft must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable life jacket that is compatible with that activity (check the label).

• Personal watercraft must travel at slow no-wake speed (5 mph or less) within 150 feet of nonmotorized boats, shore (unless launching or landing skiers directly to or from open water), docks, swim rafts, swimmers, or any moored or anchored boat.

• Operation of personal watercraft is allowed only from 9:30 a.m. to 1 hour before sunset.

• If you tow a person on water skis, or any other device, there must be an additional person on board the personal watercraft to act as an observer. (The observer does not have to be facing backward.)

• Factory-installed or factory-specified wide-field rearview mirrors are allowed instead of an observer when pulling a skier or other device (tube, kneeboard, etc.).

• After-market mirrors, stick-on mirrors, motorcycle mirrors, etc., do not qualify for the observer exemption.

• The skier/knee-boarder etc. must also be wearing a life jacket or there must be one on board the personal watercraft for the skier.

• If the machine is equipped by the manufacturer with a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch, it must be attached to the person, life jacket or clothing of the operator when underway.

• You may not operate a personal watercraft if any part of the spring-loaded throttle system has been removed or tampered with so it interferes with the return-to-idle system.

• You may not chase or harass wildlife.

• You may not travel through emergent or floating vegetation at greater than slow no-wake speed.

• You may not operate a personal watercraft in a manner that unreasonably or unnecessarily endangers life, limb or property.

• You may not weave through congested watercraft traffic, or jump the wake of another watercraft within 150 feet of the other watercraft. This includes other personal watercraft.

• A personal watercraft rules decal issued by the DNR needs to be on the craft in full view of the operator.

• You may not operate a personal watercraft while facing backward.

• It is unlawful for the owner of the personal watercraft to permit its operation in violation of the age restrictions (see next page).

• Some lakes have additional restrictions, see mndnr.gov/boatingsafety and click on local water restrictions.

• A person on a waterjet propelled accessory to a personal watercraft is operating a personal watercraft and must follow all regulations.

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT OPERATOR

AGE RESTRICTIONS REGARDLESS OF

HORSEPOWER

(other motorboats see page 30)

OPERATOR

AGE

RESTRICTIONS

LESS THAN

13 YEARS

• Cannot operate – even with an adult on board.

13 YEARS • must have either someone at least 21 years old on board, or

• a watercraft operator’s permit and be in visual supervision by someone at least 21 years old.

14 –17

YEARS

• must have either a watercraft operator’s permit, or

• someone at least 21 years old on board.

SELLING AND RENTING PERSONAL

WATERCRAFT

Personal watercraft…