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

Diver Down Flag (625 ILCS 45/5-19)

Persons scuba diving, skin diving, snorkeling, or underwater spearfishing must display a diver down flag to warn other boaters. A diver must stay within 150 feet of the flag. Unless there is an emergency, a diver may not surface more than 50 feet from the flag. It is unlawful to display a diver down flag when not diving. Vessels not engaged in diving operations must stay at least 150 feet from a displayed diver down flag. The diver down flags are:

Illustration	Types of Flags
	Divers Flag: A rectangular red flag with a white diagonal stripe that is one-fifth the width of the flag. The flag must be at least 12 inches high and 15 inches wide, and mounted to be clearly visible.
	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.

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 should also follow all of the water safety rules themselves.

Marine Events (625 ILCS 45/5-15)

If a race, regatta, or other marine event is to be held on Illinois waters, you must apply for a permit from the Department of Natural Resources at least 30 days prior to the event.

Local Regulations (625 ILCS 45/8)

Many local waterways in Illinois have specific equipment and operational restrictions in addition to those covered in this chapter. Be sure to check for local regulations before you go out.