Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Massachusetts Required Equipment Checklist

indicates the equipment is required by state law.

Required Equipment	PWC	Boat Less than 16'	Boat 16' or Longer
Boating Safety Certificate on Board
Boating Safety Certificate: Required for some operators.
Boat Registration on Board
Validation Decal Displayed
PFDs: Type I, II, III or V (one per person)
Every person on board a PWC must wear a PFD (life jacket) at all times. Children under 12 years old must wear a PFD (life jacket) at all times. There are special requirements for persons on board a canoe or kayak.
PFD: Type IV	n/a	n/a
Type B Fire Extinguisher(s)
Type B Fire Extinguisher(s): Exceptions exist for some vessels less than 26 ft. in length operating on state waters.
Backfire Flame Arrestor		Required on gasoline-fueled inboard and stern drives only.	Required on gasoline-fueled inboard and stern drives only.
Ventilation System
Muffler
Horn, Whistle, or Bell
Daytime Visual Distress Signals	n/a	n/a
Nighttime Visual Distress Signals	Some items are not applicable to personal watercraft since these vessels may not be operated at night and may not tow skiers.
Navigation Lights	Some items are not applicable to personal watercraft since these vessels may not be operated at night and may not tow skiers.
Anchor, Line, and Manual Bailer	n/a	Required for boats propelled by a motor of any kind.	Required for boats propelled by a motor of any kind.
Paddle or Oar	n/a	Required for boats propelled by a motor of any kind.	n/a
Boarding Ladder	Some items are not applicable to personal watercraft since these vessels may not be operated at night and may not tow skiers.	Ladder, steps, platform or similar device is required if towing a person on skis or other device.	Ladder, steps, platform or similar device is required if towing a person on skis or other device.