Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Enforcement

• The following persons have full authority of a peace officer to enforce the boating laws of New Mexico:
  • Officials from the New Mexico State Parks Division—the Director, park custodians, and other employees designated in writing by the Director
  • Every sheriff in his or her respective county
  • Every member of the New Mexico State Police
• U.S. Coast Guard officers also patrol and have enforcement authority on federally controlled waters.
• The law enforcement officers listed above are authorized to stop and board your vessel to check that you are complying with state and federal laws.
• It is illegal to refuse to follow the directive of a person with law enforcement authority. An operator who has received a visual or audible signal from a law enforcement officer must bring his or her vessel to a stop.
• Every person who violates or fails to comply with laws in the New Mexico Boat Act is guilty of a misdemeanor.
• Violators must appear before a magistrate to determine the fine and court costs.

Law enforcement officers have the right to stop and board vessels to check for compliance with state and federal laws.