It's the Law: Specifically for PWCs

PWC operators must obey additional legal requirements that apply specifically to the operation of personal watercraft on Michigan waters.

Requirements Specific to PWCs

• Each person riding on or being towed behind a PWC must wear a U.S. Coast Guard—approved Type I, II, or III PFD. Inflatable PFDs may not be used. See PFD age restrictions.
• You may not allow a child under 7 years of age to ride on or be towed behind a PWC unless with a parent or guardian or designee of the parent or guardian.
• The lanyard of a PWC's ignition safety switch must be attached to the person, clothing, or PFD of the operator.
• It is illegal to operate a PWC during the period that begins at sunset and ends at 8:00 a.m. “Sunset” means that time determined by the national weather service.
• PWCs must be operated in a reasonable and prudent manner at all times. It is illegal to:
  • Jump the wake of another vessel unnecessarily close to the other vessel.
  • Weave your PWC through congested traffic.
  • Swerve at the last possible moment to avoid collision.
• A PWC must be operated at "slow, no wake speed" if crossing within 150 feet behind another vessel unless the other vessel is also a PWC.
• You may not operate a PWC within 200 feet of a Great Lakes shoreline unless traveling at "slow, no wake speed" perpendicular to the shoreline.
• You may not operate a PWC in waters less than two feet deep unless you are operating at "slow, no wake speed" or are docking or launching your PWC.
• It is illegal to harass wildlife or disturb aquatic vegetation with your PWC.