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Section 1
Basic Rules of the Road
Boating Regulations
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is the governing authority of the
United States waterways and serves to help the boating public. State
boating regulations are enforced by local authorities. Owners and
users outside of the United States must be cognizant of that
country’s laws and regulations. You are subject to marine traffic laws
and “Rules of the Road” for both federal and state waterways; you
must stop if signaled to do so by enforcement officers, and permit
them to board if asked.
Review and understand all local, state, federal, and country boating
laws.
There are many USCG pamphlets available to you. These
pamphlets go beyond the contents of this manual and explain
“Rules of the Road,” signal lights, buoys, safety, international and
inland regulations. An example is the Ultimate Watersports
Handbook you should have received with your new boat, or which
can be ordered by contacting WSIA; go to: www.WSIA.net. For more
information, contact your local USCG Unit or visit
http://www.uscgboating.org.
You should be aware of these rules and follow them whenever you
encounter another vessel on the water. The rules presented in this
manual outline only the most basic of the nautical “Rules of the
Road” and have been provided as a convenience only. Consult your
local U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary (USCGA), Department of Motor
Vehicles (DMV) or local maritime authority for a complete set of
rules governing the waters in which you will be using your boat. If
you plan to travel—even for a short trip—you would be well served
to contact the regional USCGA or DMV in the area where you will
be boating.
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