It's The Law: On The Water with Your Vessel

In addition to the laws mentioned previously, here are some other Texas regulations which apply when boat and PWC operators are on the water.

Negligent and Reckless Operation

The failure to exercise the care necessary to prevent the endangerment of life, limb, or property of any other person is illegal. Below are examples of negligent or reckless operation.

• Boating in restricted areas that have been clearly marked by buoys or in some other manner.
• Allowing passengers to ride on the bow, gunwale, transom, seat backs, seats on raised decks, or any other place where there may be a chance of falling overboard.

• Operating at speeds that are not reasonable based on boating traffic, weather conditions, visibility, or other hazards. If no limits are posted, you should operate a vessel so that it does not endanger others and so that it can be stopped safely.
• Causing damage to a person or property with a vessel's wake in "No Wake" areas. In these areas, you should operate a vessel slowly so that it does not throw a wake. In addition, you should reduce speed when passing:
  • Near a swimming area or close to a shoreline
  • Another vessel where people are fishing, water-skiing, diving, or anchored
• Encircling swimmers, divers, or boaters who are fishing. This includes vessels pulling water-skiers.