Boating Rules & Regulations

Description of official boating laws, rules and regulations in Canada and the United States.

Nevada’s Boater Education Requirements

Nevada’s Boater Education Regulations Nevada’s boater education regulations require any operator born on or after January 1st, 1983, who wishes to operate a boat powered by a motor of 15 horsepower or more, to have successfully completed a Boater Education Course and proficiency exam that has been approved by the Nevada Department of Wildlife. Nevada’s […]

Rhode Island’s Titling and Registration Requirements

In order to legally operate a motorized boat in Rhode Island, you must obtain a Certificate of Number (registration card) and validation decals. The Certificate of Number must be on board during operation and be available for inspection by an enforcement officer. Exemptions: A boat that is properly registered in another state using Rhode Island […]

Rhode Island’s Muffler Requirements and Litter Laws

The exhaust of every internal combustion engine on any motorized boat shall be effectively muffled by a muffler or underwater exhaust. The use of cutouts is prohibited, except for motorized boats competing in an approved race or trial run. Rhode Island’s Waste Disposal  Laws Discharge of sewage It is illegal to discharge any sewage from […]

Rhode Island’s Boater Education Requirements

Any person born after January 1st, 1986, must successfully complete a Boating Safety Course in order to operate a motorized boat that exceeds 10 horsepower. Anyone who operates a personal watercraft (PWC) must successfully complete a Boating Safety Course, regardless of their age. The Boater Education Course must be approved by the Rhode Island Department […]

Rhode Island’s Boating Law Enforcement

Boating laws in Rhode Island are enforced by: The Department of Environmental Management. Harbor masters and assistant harbormasters. Police officers authorized to make arrests. Employees of the Department of Environmental Management authorized. These officers have the authority to stop and board any boat where they have probable cause to believe that a violation of law […]

Licensing Your Boat in Canada

What is a Compliance Notice? The Small Vessel Regulations require all pleasure craft that are less than 24 m in length and that are, or can be fitted with a motor, to have a Compliance Notice (boats longer than 24 m in length are exempt from this requirement). This metal label is attached to your […]

Boat Registration in Canada

Transport Canada’s Boat Registration Requirements Boat Registration is different from Vessel Licensing in that it provides proof of ownership (legal title), a unique name and official number for your boat and the right to use your boat as security for a marine mortgage. There are costs involved but if you plan on travelling in international waters it […]

Boating and Alcohol Laws in Canada

Boating and Alcohol in Canada Boating under the influence is still a serious issue on Canadian waterways. In fact, boating under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs is still a factor in approximately 40% of boating-related accidents and deaths in Canada. Boating and alcohol laws in Canada vary in each province. In some provinces any boat […]

Canadian Boating Laws

Looking to go boating in Canada? It’s your responsibility to stay up-to-date on the laws and requirements that are required when operating a boat. These regulations change from time to time, but don’t worry; we’re here to help! Here’s the up to date information about what you need to know before heading out on the […]

Horsepower Restrictions for Young Boaters

Before heading out on the water, it’s important to understand the requirements to drive a boat. Horsepower restrictions for young boaters differ slightly depending on the age of the operator and the horsepower of the boat. Here’s a breakdown of age and horsepower restrictions: Under 12 Years Old Boaters under 12, with proof of competency such as […]