Legal
Requirements
Law Enforcement
A vessel underway, when hailed by a
Coast Guard vessel, is required to heave to,
or maneuver in such a manner that permits
a boarding ofcer to come aboard.
Other federal, state and local law en-
forcement ofcials may board and exam-
ine a vessel. The Coast Guard may impose
a civil penalty up to $1,000 for failure to
comply with equipment requirements; re-
port a boating accident; or comply with
other federal regulations. Failure to com-
ply with the Inland Navigation Rules Act
of 1980 can result in a civil penalty up to
$5,000. Details of the Act are available on-
line or through the U.S. Coast Guard and
the Coast Guard Auxiliary.
Operator’s License
Some states are implementing operator’s
license requirements. These requirements
vary widely. Many states now have restric-
tions regarding age. If you are operating
in a location where minors are allowed to
operate the boat, careful supervision by an
adult should be the rule of thumb always.
Whether operating a boat locally or in a
remote location, operators should verify
with state and local authorities regarding
whether a license or training is required.
This should be checked at least annually.
Boating Under the Inuence
Boating under the inuence of alcohol
or drugs can be as deadly as driving a car
while under the inuence!
Did you know:
• a boat operator is likely to become im-
paired more quickly than a vehicle driv-
er, drink for drink?
• the penalties for BUI can include large
nes, revocation of operator privileges
and serious jail time?
• the use of alcohol is involved in about
one-third of all recreational boating fa-
talities?
It is illegal to operate a boat while under
the inuence of alcohol or drugs in every
state. The Coast Guard also enforces a fed-
eral law that prohibits BUI.
Alcohol affects judgment, vision, bal-
ance and coordination. These impairments
increase the likelihood of accidents aoat
for both boat operators and passengers. U.S.
Coast Guard data shows that in boating deaths
Page 1-20 2014 MasterCraft Owners Manual • Safety Knowledge
S A F E T Y K N O W L E D G E
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