Laws and Safety Equipment

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WATER SAFETY AND SAFE BOAT OPERATION

Operator Age

Virginia does not have a minimum age requirement to operate any boat, other than a PWC (minimum of 16, or 14 – 15 if certified). Many states do require powerboat operators to be a minimum age, so if you are operating in another state (NC, TN, etc.), check the specific state law to ensure your young boat operator is of legal age. Generally there are no age restrictions to operate a non-powered boat such as a sailboat, canoe, kayak or rowboat.

No Wake Speed

No Wake Speed is defined as the slowest speed possible to maintain steerage and headway.

All boats must come to NO WAKE SPEED when within 50 FEET or LESS of piers, docks, boathouses, boat ramps and people in the water. This rule does not prohibit pulling a skier with a rope less than 50 feet.