Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Enforcement

The boating laws of Alabama are enforced by Marine Police officers, county sheriffs, U.S. Coast Guard officers and any other authorized peace officer or law enforcement officer.

• Officers have the authority to stop and board your vessel in order to check that you are complying with state and federal laws. The U.S. Coast Guard also has enforcement authority on all federally-controlled waters.
• Whenever contacted by one of these officers, you must stop and permit the officer to come alongside to check your vessel registration and required safety equipment.

Marine Police officers, county sheriffs, U.S. Coast Guard officers and any other authorized law enforcement officers have the right to stop and board vessels in order to check for compliance with state and federal laws.