Chapter Two: Tennessee Laws and Safety Requirements
LAW ENFORCEMENT
It is the responsibility of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to enforce and administer the provisions of the "Tennessee Boating Safety Act." Enforcement officers of the Agency are on the water to assist boaters as well as to enforce laws and to provide control when necessary.
- Every officer of the Agency has the authority to stop and board any vessel subject to the State Boating Act. They may issue citations or, when necessary, they may arrest, on sight, without warrant, any person they see violating any provisions of the Act.
- Most Agency vessels may be recognized by the orange and green stripes near the bow and the words WILDLIFE RESOURCES on the sides; however, unmarked vessels are also used.
Boaters who are signaled to stop must do so immediately and maneuver in such a way that the officer may come along side or come aboard.
US Coast Guard – Responsible for federal boating regulation and enforcement on all federal navigable waters.
County or City marine patrol officers (may be fire or police departments)– responsible for enforcement within the geographical boundaries of a particular County or City.
Orders by Enforcement Officers
If stopped by a law enforcement or marine patrol officer, slow down and bring your boat to a stop if it is safe to do so. Once stopped, wait for further directions from the officer.
Display of Blue Lights
Only law enforcement boats may use and display blue lights (flashing/strobe) on a vessel. If you observe a blue light, slow down or stop.
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