Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Obstructing Navigation
Vessel operators should always be considerate of other vessel operators even when stopping to anchor or moor– To keep a vessel in place by setting anchor or tying the vessel to a fixed object or buoy. Keep in mind that it is illegal to:
- Operate any vessel in such a way that it will interfere unnecessarily with the safe navigation of other vessels on the waterway.
- Anchor a vessel in the traveled portion of a river or channel in a way that will prevent or interfere with any other vessel passing through the same area.
- Moor or attach a vessel to a buoy (other than a mooring buoy), beacon, light, or any other navigational aid placed on public waters by proper authorities.
- Move, displace, tamper with, damage, or destroy any navigational aid.
- Obstruct a pier, wharf, boat ramp, courtesy dock, or access to a marina or other facility by anchoring or mooring within 150 feet.
- Block or obstruct the movement of a vessel leaving a pier or dock.
Homeland Security Restrictions
Recreational boaters have a role in keeping our waterways safe and secure.
- Observe and avoid all security zones, especially around military vessels and including restricted areas near dams and power plants. Do not stop or anchor
beneath bridges or in the channel. Violators can expect a swift and severe
response.
- Keep a sharp eye out for anything that looks peculiar or out of the ordinary.
Report all suspicious activities to local authorities or the U.S. Coast Guard.
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