It's the Law: Required Equipment

Sound-Producing Devices

The requirements for sound-producing devices are:

• Vessels less than 16 feet in length, which includes PWCs, are not required by state law to carry a sound-producing device, but it is highly recommended that these vessels carry at least a whistle. (Note: If operating on federally controlled waters, a whistle or horn audible for at least one-half mile is required for these vessels.)
• Vessels that are 16 feet but less than 26 feet in length are required to carry on board a whistle or some other means to make an efficient sound signal audible for at least one-half mile.
• Vessels that are 26 feet but less than 40 feet in length are required to carry on board a power-operated whistle audible for at least one mile.
• Vessels that are 40 feet or more in length are required to carry on board a bell and a power-operated whistle audible for at least one mile.