You may not legally exceed 5 mph when operating within 200 feet of a dock in most U.S. waters.
What’s legal when operating a vessel on North Carolina waters?
Within 100 feet of an anchored or moored vessel, a dock, pier, swim float, marked swimming area, swimmers, surfers, or manually propelled vessels, you must operate at no-wake speed.
North Carolina also expects you to operate your boat in a reasonable, prudent way—no wake means no endangering people or property. Speed should let you stop safely if something pops up ahead. Blow past these rules and you could face fines up to $250, plus possible boating privilege suspension. For the nitty-gritty, check the NC Wildlife Resources Commission.
How fast can a personal watercraft go within 200 feet of any Great Lakes shoreline?
The maximum legal speed for a personal watercraft (PWC) within 200 feet of the Great Lakes shoreline is 5 mph.
Great Lakes states treat shorelines like no-wake zones to protect swimmers, wildlife, and shoreline property from erosion. PWCs also slow to no-wake within 100 feet of docks or swimming areas. Signs can change the posted limit, so scan for local rules. Cross the line and fines can hit $500 depending on the state.
What’s required to legally operate a motorized vessel in California?
You must be at least 16 years old and carry a California Boater Card to legally operate a vessel powered by a motor of 15 hp or more.
California’s Boater Card rule covers all motorized boats, including PWCs. You can take the safety course at any age, but you need the card in hand by age 16. No card? No go. The course costs a few bucks and takes a few hours online. Details live at the California State Parks Boating and Waterways site.
What do teens aged 13 to under 16 need to legally run a motorized vessel under 10 hp in New Jersey?
They must have completed a New Jersey State Police–approved boating safety course and carry the resulting Boating Safety Certificate.
This applies to both gas and electric motors under 10 hp. The course covers navigation rules, required gear, and emergency moves. Once you finish, keep the certificate on board. Want to enroll? Head to the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau.
What’s the 50-foot rule all about?
The 50-foot rule means you must operate at no-wake speed within 50 feet of docks, piers, swimmers, or other vessels.
Most states use 50 feet, though some stretch it to 100 or 200 feet near swimming areas. The idea is simple: slow down to stop wakes from swamping others or damaging property. Break it and expect fines that usually run $50–$250. Always check local charts—distances aren’t universal.
What extra safety gear must you carry if your boat is 16 feet or longer?
You need a throwable Type IV PFD in addition to a wearable PFD for each person on board.
That throwable cushion must be within arm’s reach—not buried in a locker. Canoes and kayaks get a free pass on this one. All PFDs need to be Coast Guard–approved, in decent shape, and the right size. Skip it and you’re looking at fines up to $250.
When are you actually operating at a safe speed?
A safe speed lets you avoid collisions and stop within a safe distance, factoring in visibility, traffic, and water conditions.
Think fog, darkness, or a crowded harbor—5 mph might still be too fast. The Coast Guard says safe speed is whatever lets you react in time. If you’re unsure, ease off the throttle until you’re confident you can stop or turn quickly.
What kills steering on a PWC faster than anything?
Letting the engine idle or shut off while you’re still moving kills your steering on a PWC.
PWCs steer by squirting water out the back. Kill the jet stream and you lose the wheel. Keep the throttle engaged even when you want to slow down. Need to stop? Ease off gradually instead of killing the engine—especially in tight spots.
What’s the rule when towing a water skier?
You must have an observer on board or a wide-angle rearview mirror to watch the skier while you tow.
The observer’s only job is to keep eyes on the skier and talk to you. No observer? A proper wide-angle mirror must give you a clear view behind the boat. Both skier and operator need Coast Guard PFDs, and towing is off-limits after sunset. Mess this up and fines can climb to $250.
What’s the no-wake speed limit in California?
California sets no-wake speed at 5 mph within 200 feet of swimming areas, docks, or moored vessels.
California also bans big wakes within 100 feet of shore or other boats. Signs can post tighter limits, so read them every time you launch. First offense fines start around $50 and climb with repeats.
What sound gear must boats 40 feet or longer carry?
Boats 40 feet or longer must carry both a bell and a whistle as sound-producing devices.
The bell needs to be at least 8 inches across and ring in all directions. The whistle must carry half a nautical mile. Smaller boats can get away with just a whistle or horn. These gadgets matter most when visibility tanks or you need to signal for help.
What do you call a boat that hits bottom and gets stuck?
Grounding can dent hulls, bend props, or crack drives. If you run aground, shift weight away from the contact point and gently rock the boat free. Revving the engine just digs you in deeper. Once you’re off, check for leaks or other damage. Always pack a marine radio in case you need a tow.
Who must wear a life jacket on boats 20 feet or shorter?
Children 12 and younger must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved PFD at all times on any boat 20 feet or less.
This rule covers every small boat—canoes, kayaks, even paddleboards if they’re under 20 feet. Anyone on a PWC or being towed also needs a PFD, no age exceptions. Make sure each jacket fits and isn’t ripped. Violations run up to $250 per kid.
What paperwork must be on board and ready for cops to see?
Your vessel’s registration certificate (or a copy) must be on board and available for law enforcement inspection.
If your boat needs registration, it has to be registered and numbered before you hit the water. The registration numbers go on the bow, and decals must be current. Some states also want your boating safety certificate on hand. Forget the paperwork and you could owe up to $100.
How much does a BUI ticket set you back?
First-offense BUI fines range from $500 to $5,000, depending on your state and blood alcohol level.
That’s just the start—jail time, boating privilege suspension, and higher insurance rates often follow. Play it smart: name a designated driver or call a ride. Want state-by-state specifics? Peek at the Boating Safety Resource.
Edited and fact-checked by the MeridianFacts editorial team.
