LARSON Bass - Boating Regulations and Your Responsibilities; Boat Owner; Operator Responsibilities

© 2003-2018 Ken Cook Co. Bass l 3 - 1
Section 3
BOATING REGULATIONS AND YOUR
RESPONSIBILITIES
The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is the federal authority on U.S. coastal and inland
waterways, but state and local regulations may exist that exceed USCG
regulations. The purpose of all these regulations is to assist the boating public and
maintain navigational order on waterways.
Many state equipment requirements go beyond USCG requirements. Contact state
and local boating authorities for further information. Equipment requirements for
coastal and inland waters differ. Check with local authorities or the USCG for further
information about coastal water requirements.
Boating regulations are enforced by USCG, state and local authorities. Operators/
owners are subject to marine navigation regulations for both federal and state
waterways. Operators/owners must comply if enforcement officers signal them to
stop the boat or if they ask to board the boat.
Many USCG, state and local resources are available. For additional and current
information on regulations, safety and navigation, contact the local USCG unit or
local marine authority.
See the References and Contact Information section of this manual for a list of
resources.
BOAT OWNER / OPERATOR RESPONSIBILITIES
As a boat owner/operator, understand and be aware of USCG federal regulations
as well as state and local regulations where operating the boat. Boating regulations
include, but are not limited to, boat regulations, boat equipment regulations and
navigational regulations.
Operators/owners must have on board at all times all mandatory safety and boat
equipment as regulated by the governing authorities. All equipment must be
maintained in proper working order.
SAFETY
Boat owners/operators are legally responsible for their safety, the safety of their
passengers and the safety of other boaters. In addition, they are responsible for the
operation and navigation of the boat under all operating conditions. The boat must
be in compliance with USCG safety equipment regulations.