Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Other Equipment and Regulations

Diver-Down Flags

Scuba divers or snorkelers must display a diver-down flag that marks their diving area. Vessels must remain at least 50 feet away from the flag unless the flag is located such that it creates an unreasonable obstruction to navigation. Two types of flags are used to indicate diving activity.

Illustration	Types of Flags
	Diver Down Flag A rectangular red flag, at least 15 inches by 15 inches, with a white diagonal stripe may be used if on North Carolina state waters.
	Alfa Flag A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), at least 3.3 feet (one meter) high and visible from all directions, must be displayed on vessels on federally controlled waters. This flag indicates that the vessel is involved in a diving activity.

Scuba divers and snorkelers should not place a flag in an area already occupied by other boaters or where their diving operation will impede the normal flow of waterway traffic. Divers also should follow all of the water safety rules themselves.

Marine Events

If an event is being held on federally controlled waters or some unusual hazard or danger is involved, you must apply for a permit from the U.S. Coast Guard at least 30 days prior to the event.

Trailers

North Carolina requires the following equipment for trailers.

• If the gross weight of the vessel and trailer exceeds 4,000 pounds, the trailer must be equipped with brakes.
• Trailers must have proper lighting, including turn signals, taillights, and brake lights. All trailer lights must be maintained in an operable condition, the same as when the trailer was manufactured.
• All towing vehicles must be connected to the trailer by a set of safety chains or by a cable of sufficient strength to maintain connection under all conditions.