A Course for Safe Boating

California Boating

Chapter 2

Boating Law, Navigational Rules and Navigational Aids

BOATING LAW

California Law Governs

Age of boat operators

Environmental protection

Required safety equipment

Navigational rules and aids

Boat ownership and registration

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.

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.

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