Skip to main content

Course Outline

PWC jumping wake of a boat; prohibited sign on the image

In South Dakota, these are the operating laws for PWC.

  • PWC may not be operated between the hours of sunset and sunrise unless equipped with the required navigation lights.
  • It is illegal to operate a PWC at greater than “slow, no wake speed” within 150 feet of:
    • A dock
    • A swimmer
    • A swimming raft
    • A non-motorized boat
  • PWC must be operated in a responsible manner at all times. Maneuvers that endanger people or property are prohibited, including:
    • Weaving a PWC through congested waterway traffic
    • Jumping the wake of another vessel unreasonably close to the other vessel or when visibility around the other vessel is obstructed
    • Waiting until the last possible moment to swerve and avoid collision
  • It is illegal to chase, harass, or disturb wildlife with a PWC.
  • It is illegal to operate a PWC through emergent floating vegetation at greater than “slow, no wake speed.”
  • Unit 4 of 6
  • Topic 13 of 19
  • Page 2 of 2