It's the Law: On the Water

In addition to the laws mentioned previously, here are some other Louisiana regulations that apply when vessel operators are on the water.

Unlawful and Dangerous Operation

Louisiana law states that these dangerous operating practices are illegal:

Reckless Operation is operating a vessel in a manner that causes danger to others or their property. Examples of illegal, reckless operation are: Boating in a restricted area such as a marked swimming area Weaving through congested waterway traffic Swerving at the last possible moment in order to avoid collision Chasing, harassing, or disturbing wildlife

"Idle Speed" or "No Wake" Speed: This is the slowest speed at which it is still possible to maintain steering and which does not produce a wake.

"No Wake" Zones: "No wake" zones have been established on all Louisiana waterways within 300 feet of: A boat ramp that is open to the general public A dock adjacent to a boat ramp that is open to the general public. Vessels must be operated at "bare steerage speed" and produce no wake

Careless Operation of a vessel is operating a vessel in a careless manner or at a rate of speed that does not allow the vessel to come to a stop within the assured clear distance ahead. Examples of careless operation are: Causing danger or damage from the wake of your vessel Operating a vessel at speeds that may cause danger, injury, or damage; be aware of and obey all regulatory markers, including those marked as "no wake."

Riding on the Bow or Gunwales is allowing passengers to ride where there may be a chance of falling overboard while underway on a powerboat 26 feet or less in length. Specifically, this means allowing passengers to ride on a covered bow or gunwales, unless the powerboat has adequate guards or a railing to prevent falls overboard.

Overloading is loading the vessel beyond its safe carrying capacity, taking into consideration the weather and other operating conditions.

Overpowering is equipping the vessel with a motor that is beyond its safe power capacity, taking into consideration the type and construction of the vessel and other operating conditions.

Unsafe Condition is operating a vessel in a condition that causes a hazard to the occupants or others on the waterways. Enforcement officers may instruct the operator to immediately take corrective action or return to port if there are insufficient personal flotation devices, fire extinguishers, backfire flame arrestors, ventilation, or navigation lights; if the vessel is overloaded or overpowered; or if the vessel is leaking fuel.

Remember—vessel owners are responsible ...
As an owner of a vessel, you are responsible for any injury or damage caused by the negligent operation of your vessel by others you knowingly allow to operate it. It will be assumed that you have given consent if your vessel is being operated by an immediate family member.