Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Other Equipment

Ski Flag

California law requires that a vessel involved with towing person(s) on water-skis or other similar devices carry and use a red or orange “skier down” flag whenever the skier or ski equipment is in the water.

Diver Down Flag

Diver down flags are used to indicate divers or snorkelers in the immediate area. When operating in an area where one of these flags is displayed, vessel operators should exercise caution.

The Alfa flag should be used by vessels engaged in diving operations and restricted in their ability to maneuver. For boats tending free-swimming divers where the diving does not interfere with the maneuverability of the vessel, the divers flag may be displayed.

Illustrations	Types of Flags
	Divers Flag: A rectangular red flag, at least 15 x 15 inches, with a white diagonal stripe, flown from a vessel or a buoy.
	Alfa Flag: A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), flown from a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver. This flag indicates that a vessel is involved in a diving activity.

Navigation Rules

A complete copy of inland navigational rules must be kept for reference on board all vessels 12 meters (39.4 ft.) or more in length operating on inland waters. A copy of the “Navigation Rules International - Inland” booklet can be purchased by calling toll-free 1-866-512-1800.

Trailers

All trailers owned and operated in California, and used to transport vessels of any size, must be licensed by the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).

• By law, your trailer must be equipped with taillights, brake lights, turn signals and clearance lights.
• It is against the law to tow a trailered vessel containing a passenger, except when launching the vessel or loading the vessel on the trailer.

Local Regulations

Certain bodies of water have local restrictions as to type of watercraft, areas open to use, permitted speeds, usage times, speed zones, and pollution and sanitation control. Boaters must comply with local rules as well as with state laws.