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

Diver-Down Flags

State law requires that scuba divers or snorkelers display the diver-down flag to mark the diving area. Vessel operators must not operate within 200 feet of a displayed diver-down flag. Two types of flags are used to indicate diving activity.

A rectangular red flag at least 12 x 12 inches with a white diagonal stripe if on Vermont waters.
A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag) if on federally controlled or international waters.

DIvers Flag

Alfa Flag

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 also should follow all of the water safety rules themselves.

Local Regulations

Local waterways 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 out.

Marine Events

You must obtain authorization from the Department of Public Safety to hold a marine parade, regatta, race, tournament, exhibition, or any other event on Vermont waters. The person in charge of the event must apply to the Department of Public Safety for a permit at least 15 days prior to the event.

VHF Radio

Some vessels equipped with VHF radios are required to have a Ship Station License by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC).

As of 1996, most recreational vessels no longer need an FCC license if operating domestically. “Domestically” means not traveling to foreign ports or transmitting to foreign stations, including Canada.
Recreational vessels still required to carry an FCC Ship Station License are powerboats over 65.6 feet (20 meters) in length and any vessel on an international voyage.