Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Other Equipment
Diver Down Flag
Scuba divers or snorkelers display a flag to mark their diving
area. Vessels not engaged in diving should stay well clear of areas
displaying the “diver down” flag or vessels displaying
the “code flag Alfa.”
- Diver down flag: A rectangular red flag with a white
diagonal stripe displayed from a float during diving operations.
- Code Flag Alfa: 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.

DIvers Flag
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Alfa Flag
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Scuba
divers and snorkelers should not place a flag in an area
already occupied by other boaters or where diving operation
will impede the normal flow of waterway traffic. |
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’s
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
more than 48 hours without notification of the Division of Fish & 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.
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
going out.
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