Who Enforces Boating Laws?

Boating laws are enforced by multiple agencies. The U.S. Coast Guard enforces federal law on federal waters, including coastal waters, tidal waters, and waterways that cross state lines. Every peace officer of the state, city, county, harbor district, or other political subdivision of the state is empowered to enforce California boating law. In California, most recreational boating laws are enforced by local agencies such as county sheriffs, police officers, park rangers, and other officials. These officers enforce state boating laws, navigation rules, and local restrictions.

• Any vessel approaching or being approached by an enforcement vessel operating with a siren or illuminated blue light must immediately slow to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage only and alter course so as not to interfere with the operation of the law enforcement vessel.
• Every vessel underway and lawfully ordered to stop by an officer must stop immediately and permit the enforcement vessel to come alongside.
• Peace officers have the authority to enforce boating laws and may stop and board a vessel when they have probable cause to believe a violation has occurred.
• Officers are also authorized to order the operator of an unsafe vessel to shore.

False Search and Rescue Calls

Any individual who reports to a state or local agency that an emergency exists knowing that the report is false is guilty of a misdemeanor, and in some cases, a felony.