Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Enforcement

The boating laws of Mississippi are enforced by the officers of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks, the officers of the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, U.S. Coast Guard officers, and any other authorized peace officers or law enforcement officers. 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.

Officers of the Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks, the Mississippi Department of Marine Resources, U.S. Coast Guard, and any other authorized law enforcement agencies have the right to stop and board vessels in order to check for compliance with state and federal laws.

Remember—You are still responsible for meeting all of the Mississippi boating regulations even when you are operating a livery boat or PWC rather than your own vessel. (A livery vessel is a vessel for rent or hire.)