Basic Boating Information

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BUILDING YOUR OWN BOAT

Referred to as "Backyard Boat Builders". Must comply with the same safety standards and administrative regulations as regular boat manufacturers. Failure to do so could affect insurance coverage and make the builder vulnerable in a liability suit.

• To assist Backyard Boat Builders in constructing boats to conform to the safety standards, the USCG has published a booklet entitled Safety Standards for Backyard Boat Builders (CG-466). To have a copy mailed to you call the Infoline at 1-800-368-5647.
• Backyard Boat Builders are required to have a HIN on their boat. A HIN will be issued by the state in which the builder lives. Contact your state boating agency for instructions.