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

Diver-Down Flag

Persons scuba diving, skin diving, snorkeling or underwater spearfishing must display a diver-down flag to mark their diving area. A diver must stay within 75 feet of the flag. Vessels not engaged in diving operations must stay at least 75 feet away from any displayed diver-down flag. Two types of flags are used to indicate diving activity.

Illustration	Types of Flags
	Divers Flag A rectangular red flag, at least 8 x 10 inches in size, with a white diagonal stripe is used on state waters. The flag must be clearly visible and securely attached or anchored to a float, a rubber tube, or a boat.
	Alfa Flag A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag) is required on federally controlled and international 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 should also follow all of the water safety rules themselves.

Marine Events

If a race, regatta, marine parade, or other marine event is to be held on South Dakota waters, the person in charge of the event must file an application for permission with the Department of Game, Fish & Parks at least 15 days prior to the event.

Local Regulations

Some local waterways in South Dakota may have specific equipment and operational restrictions in addition to those covered in this chapter. Be sure to check for local regulations before you go boating.