A Course for Safe Boating

Chapter 2 u Boating Law, Navigational Rules and Navigational Aids

BOATING LAW California Law Governs ƒ ƒ Age of boat operators ƒ ƒ Environmental protection ƒ ƒ Required safety equipment ƒ ƒ Navigational rules and aids ƒ ƒ Boat ownership and registration

KNOW THE LAW

Every boat owner and operator must know the law. Remember, if a law enforcement officer stops you, you have no excuse for not knowing the law. It is every boat operator’s responsibility to be aware of boating law changes through continuing education.

State boating law incorporates Federal Navigation Rules, including interna- tional and inland rules of navigation. The only other boating laws that apply are any rules specific to local waterways (which are limited to time-of-day restrictions, special-use areas, speed zones, or pollution and sanitation control). The navigation rules contained in this course summarize basic navigation rules for which a boat operator is responsible on inland waterways. Additional and more in-depth rules apply regarding various types of waterways, such as International Waters and Western Rivers, and operation in relation to com- mercial vessels and other watercraft. It is the responsibility of a boat operator to know and follow all the navigation rules. The Coast Guard enforces federal law on federal waters (which are coastal waters, waters subject to tidal influence, rivers and lakes that extend to more than one state). In California, most recreational boating law enforcement is done by county sheriff officers, police officers, park rangers and other land use agencies. These officers enforce state boating law, navigational regulations and local restrictions.

WEBSITE For a complete listing of the navigation rules, refer to the document “Navigation Rules” published by the U.S. Coast Guard (COMDTINST 16672.2 Series) and available through the U.S. Government Printing Office or on the Internet at www.navcen.uscg.gov.

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California Boating  A Course for Safe Boating