It's the Law: On the Water
Alcohol and Drugs

Washington law prohibits anyone from operating under the influence (OUI). This means operating any vessel while under the influence of intoxicating liquor or any drug.

• Washington law states that a person is boating under the influence if he or she:
  • Has a blood or breath alcohol concentration of 0.08 grams or greater or …
  • Is under the influence of or affected by alcohol and/or any drug.
• Washington law establishes the following penalties for operating under the influence (OUI).
  • A person convicted of OUI may be imprisoned in the county jail for up to 90 days, be fined up to $1,000, or both. In addition, the court may order the defendant to pay restitution for any damages or injuries resulting from the offense.
  • If someone dies or is seriously injured as the result of another person boating while intoxicated, the convicted person also may be charged with a felony, punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional institution and a substantial fine.