Specific PFD Requirements
Indiana law requires the following with respect to PFDs.
- All vessels must carry one wearable USCG–approved PFD for each person on board or being towed.
- Vessels 16 feet in length or longer (except a canoe or kayak) must have one throwable USCG–approved device on board and readily accessible.
- In addition to the requirements above, on “Waters of Concurrent Jurisdiction,” a child under 13 years of age must wear a PFD except when the child is below deck in an enclosed cabin or the vessel is docked or at anchor.
- If a person chooses to wear a PFD that is not USCG approved (when not specifically required), a properly fitting USCG–approved PFD must be carried on board the vessel to meet the state and federal carriage requirements.
- All persons being towed behind a vessel or a PWC on water skis, a surfboard, a kite, or a similar device must wear a USCG–approved PFD. Ski belts are not USCG approved.
- Each person on board a PWC must wear a USCG–approved PFD.
- All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and be readily accessible. Wearable PFDs must be of the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for PFDs is based on body weight and chest size.
