California Safety Requirements for Boaters
Federal
As a boat operator, you are expected to make sure that your vessel carries the required safety equipment and is in compliance with federal regulations for such things as numbering and operation. State and local laws may dictate carrying additional equipment.
California
In order to ensure that your time on the water is safe, it is important for you to know and follow the regulations and guidelines found here in this booklet from the California State Parks – Division of Boating and Waterways. The ABCs of California Boating is based upon the California Harbors and Navigation Code, Vehicle Code, Penal Code and California Code of Regulations, but uses everyday terms rather than legal language found in these laws. Not all provisions of law pertaining to boating are included. Consequently, the booklet is not suitable for use in law enforcement or in litigation.
