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Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Enforcement and Penalties

Enforcement of boating laws and regulations is the responsibility of the Waterways Conservation Officers of the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Some of the waters of the state are patrolled also by other agencies such as the Bureau of State Parks, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Coast Guard, and the National Park Service.

Boaters approached by a patrol boat with its blue light flashing must reduce speed to “slow, no wake” speed and yield the right-of-way to the patrol boat. The operator must stop when requested to do so by a law enforcement officer.

Violators can expect enforcement action.

  • Persons who violate boating laws and regulations may be subject to fines or, for more serious infractions, may be subject to arrest.
  • Upon conviction for serious offenses (like misdemeanors or felonies), violators may be sentenced to pay heavy fines and/or serve jail time.

Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission officers checking compliance

Enforcement of boating laws and regulations is the responsibility of the Waterways Conservation Officers of the Pennsylvania Fish & Boat Commission. Some of the waters of the state are patrolled also by other agencies such as the Bureau of State Parks, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, U.S. Coast Guard, and the National Park Service.

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