It's the Law: Required Equipment
Other Equipment

• Vessel Safety Inspection
• Courtesy Vessel Safety Check

Vessel Safety Inspection One of the most important duties performed by your local marine law enforcement officers is to check that the required safety equipment is on board your vessel and in good condition. Vessels that have all of the required equipment will receive a current Marine Safety Inspection decal. Having this decal: Lets others know your vessel is equipped safely. Gives you the security of knowing that your vessel is safe. Does not excuse operating violations.

Courtesy Vessel Safety Check The U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary and U.S. Power Squadrons will perform a Vessel Safety Check (VSC) of your vessel and equipment free of charge. This courtesy check covers federal and state requirements and is not a law enforcement contact. Courtesy checks are conducted routinely at boat launch and public access sites early in the boating season. If your vessel meets all VSC requirements, you will receive a VSC decal. If your vessel fails to meet all requirements, no report is made to any law enforcement agency. To request a Vessel Safety Check by an examiner, visit http://SafetySeal.net/GetVSC/ and enter your zip code.