It's the Law: Specifically for Skiing
Vessel operators towing a person(s) on water skis
or a similar device have additional laws they must follow.

Requirements for Towing Skiers
- Every vessel towing a person(s) on water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device must have a person, in addition to the vessel operator, observing the towed person(s) at all times.
- It is illegal to tow persons on water skis, surfboards, or any device of this type between:
- One hour after sunset and one hour before sunrise if towed behind a boat
- Sunset and 8:00 a.m. if towed behind a PWC
- Persons being towed must stay at least 100 feet away from:
- A shoreline (if operating in water less than three feet deep)
- Any moored or anchored vessel
- A dock or raft
- Any marked swimming area or person(s) in the water
- Those 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.
Hand Signals for Skiers
Knowing proper hand signals will help the skier(s) communicate
with their boat operator or the observer.

Skier OK |

Skier-down—watch! |

Speed up |

Slow down |

Speed OK |

Turn left
|

Turn right |

Stop |
|