Michigan Boating Laws and Tips for Safe Usage. Retain for Reference.
Boating/Water Enforcement is governed by the United States Coast Guard, Dept. of Natural Resources/DNR, County’s
Dept., and any other law enforcement officer/agency. All have the right, at any
time, to board and check vessels for state and federal law compliance.
The Law:
§ Do not operate in less than 2feet of water and within 100ft from shore, swimmers and vessels. 200ft away from shore in Great Lakes. No crossing within 100ft from another vessel.
§ Always provide/wear USCG
approved life jackets for the amount of passengers onboard.
§ It is illegal to operate any vessel under the influence of alcohol and drugs.
§ It is illegal to operate a vessel/pwc greater than 55mph, except if at least 1mile off Great Lakes shoreline.
§ It is illegal to operate or manipulate recklessly, ie. weaving, swerving, jumping, chasing, harassing,
racing, etc.
§ It is illegal NOT to operate vessel in a counter-clockwise direction. Proper
direction is counter-clockwise.
§ It is illegal for anyone under the age of 7years to operate a vessel without a guardian.
§ Slow-no wake speed is required
for any passenger in bow or vessel without proper seating.
§ Slow-no wake is required of vessel within 100ft of shoreline, any marked swimming areas and persons,
docks, rafts, and anchored vessels,
About Fueling:
§ Touch the fuel pipe/tank with the spout to prevent build-up of static electricity, preventing
sparks.
§ Never fill tank to the brim! Leave room for gas to expand.
§ After fueling, put the cap
on tightly to prevent vapors from escaping.
§ When wiping up spilled fuel, air out the rag to dry. Do not put in the boat or in water.
