The Handbook of Iowa Boating Laws and Responsibilities

The Official Boating Handbook of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources - Web Version

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It's the Law

Diver-Down Flag

Scuba divers, skin divers, and snorkelers must display a diver-down flag that marks their diving area.

Vessels not engaged in diving operations must stay at least 50 feet away from a displayed diver-down flag.

Two types of flags are used to indicate diving activity.

Divers Flag

A rectangular red flag with a white diagonal stripe, attached to a vessel, float, or buoy

Alfa Flag

A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), flown from a vessel

Divers and Alfa flags
Divers and Alfa flags