It's the Law: Required Equipment for Your Vessel

Backfire Flame Arrestors (625 ILCS 45/4-6)

Because vessel engines may backfire, all powerboats, (except outboards) fueled with gasoline, must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved (or comply with SAE J-1928 or UL 1111 standards) backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor.

Ventilation Systems (625 ILCS 45/4-7)

Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce the chance of a life-threatening explosion. All gasoline-powered vessels, constructed in a way that would entrap fumes, must have at least two ventilation ducts fitted with cowls to remove fumes.

Boat Battery (625 ILCS 45/4-10)

It is unlawful to operate a motorized vessel equipped with a storage battery unless the battery is secured against shifting. The battery must be equipped with nonconductive terminal shields to prevent accidental shorting.

Mufflers and Noise Level Limits (625 ILCS 45/4-3)

The exhaust of every internal combustion engine on any vessel must be effectively muffled. That is, the engine’s exhaust must be muffled or suppressed at all times so as not to create excessive noise.

It is unlawful to operate a vessel that exceeds a noise level of 90 decibels when subjected to a stationary sound level test or 75 decibels when in operation on state waters.