Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Other Equipment and Regulations

Diver-Down Flag

Diver-Down Flag: Delaware law requires scuba divers or snorkelers to display a flag to mark their diving area. Vessels not engaged in diving should stay well clear of areas displaying the “divers” flag or vessels displaying the “Alfa flag.”

Divers flag: A rectangular red flag with a white diagonal stripe is displayed from a float during diving operations.
Alfa flag: A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), at least 3.3 feet (one meter) high and visible from all directions, must be flown from a vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver. This flag indicates that the vessel is involved in a diving activity.

DIvers Flag

Alfa Flag

Scuba divers and snorkelers should not place a flag in an area already occupied by other boaters or where their diving operation will impede the normal flow of waterway traffic. Divers also should follow all of the water safety rules themselves.

Marine Events

Permits are required for some water events. All tournaments, regattas, races, parades, and exhibitions must be authorized by the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). An application must be made to the DNREC at least 30 days before the event.

Boat Ramps and Mooring Facilities

These regulations apply to those using a boat ramp, parking lots, seawalls, or other mooring facilities administered by the DNREC Division of Fish and Wildlife.

Use of these facilities is on a first-come, first-serve basis.
Vessels must not be left unattended, and disabled vessels must be cleared as soon as possible. Vessels or vehicles left unattended for more than 48 hours without notifying the Division of Fish and Wildlife Enforcement Section will be removed as abandoned at the owner’s expense.
Seawalls and other mooring facilities may be used only while loading and unloading vessels or while waiting to use boat ramps.
You may not moor your vessel or conduct repairs of your vessel in an area which interferes with boat ramp traffic. Ramp areas must be kept clear at all times for vessels being launched or recovered.

Delaware Fish and Wildlife Facilities Guide

To view a printable pdf of DFW facilites, download the Delaware Fish and Wilfdlife Facilities Guide. (Requires Adobe Acrobat Reader.)

Local Regulations

Some waterways in Delaware may have special regulations such as speed or horsepower restrictions. Check with the governing body of the county or municipality where the waterway is located before you go boating.