Local Regulations: Maryland's Coastal Bays

Here are additional regulations for boating in Maryland’s coastal bays.

• The Coastal Bays, also known as the back bays behind Ocean City and Assateague, are a very popular area for boating, particularly during the summer months. Many of the primary waterways, especially the northern bays, are often congested and require cautious and responsible boating.
• The bays have very unpredictable boating conditions, as they are very shallow with strong currents and tides in many areas. Local knowledge is required to operate outside the main channels. Extra care needs to be taken when boating in coastal areas with sensitive habitat such as submerged aquatic vegetation (SAV) beds and waterbird nesting locations. Running aground can harm the bay’s environment as well as cause expensive damage to a vessel.
• For more information, contact the Maryland Coastal Bays Program at 410-213-2297 or the local Natural Resources Police at 410-548-7070.