Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Enforcement

The boating laws of Missouri are enforced by the officers of the Missouri State Water Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard officers, and any other authorized peace officer or law enforcement officer. They have the authority to stop and board vessels in order to check for compliance with state and federal laws. The U.S. Coast Guard also has enforcement authority on all federally controlled waters.

Stay Up-to-date on New Boating Laws!

Be sure to stay abreast of new boating laws and requirements.

• For state boating law information, call the Missouri State Water Patrol at 1-573-751-3333.
• For federal boating laws, visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s boating safety website.

Information in this manual does not replace what is specifically legal for boating in Missouri which is found in the State of Missouri laws and federal laws.