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The Handbook of Delaware Boating Laws and Responsibilities Delaware Division of Fish & Wildlife logo

It's the Law: Delaware Boating Regulations

7.0 Negligent Operation of a Vessel

7.1 Negligent Operation.

7.1.1 No person shall operate any vessel on the waters of this State in a negligent manner.

7.1.2 The following actions shall constitute a violation of subsection 7.1.2 of this section:

7.1.2.1 Failure to reduce speed in areas where boating is concentrated, endangering life, limb, and/or property;

7.1.2.2 Operating at excessive speed at times of restricted visibility;

7.1.2.3 Operating at excessive speed when maneuvering room is restricted by narrow channels or when vision is obstructed by such things as jetties, land, or other vessels;

7.1.2.4 Impeding the right-of-way of a stand-on or privileged vessel so as to endanger risk of collision;

7.1.2.5 Towing a water skier in a restricted area or where an obstruction exists;

7.1.2.6 Operating a vessel within swimming areas when bathers are present;

7.1.2.7 Operating a vessel in areas posted as closed to vessels due to hazardous conditions;

7.1.2.8 Operating a vessel through an area where a regatta or marine parade is in progress in a way that could present a hazard to participants or spectators and interfere with the safe conduct of the event;

7.1.2.9 Operating a vessel with any person sitting on the bow, gunwales, or stern with legs hanging over the side, except a sailboat equipped with lifelines while engaged in a race for which a permit has been secured under of 23 Del.C. §2120;

7.1.2.10 Operating a vessel or use any water skis while under the influence of alcohol, any narcotic drug, barbiturate, marijuana, or hallucinogen;

7.1.2.11 Loading a vessel with passengers or cargo beyond its safe carrying capacity;

7.1.2.12 Operating a vessel with an engine of a higher horsepower rating than the rating noted on the vessel's capacity plate or in the manufacturer's specifications; and

7.1.2.13 Other actions deemed by an enforcement officer to be in violation of 7.1.1 of this section.

Separator
Delaware Division
of Fish & Wildlife
Overview
Boating Basics
It's the Law!
Required Equipment
It's the Law! (cont.)
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The Handbook of Delaware Boating Laws and Responsibilities
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