Regulations
The USCG is the authority of all waterways. Local authorities enforce State Boating Regulations. You
are subject to marine traffic laws and "Rules of the Road" for both federal and state waterways.
Therefore, you must submit to boarding if requested by the proper authority. There are many publications
available from the Coast Guard concerning regulations. Call the United States Coast Guard Info Line at
(800)-368-5647 for additional information.
Rules of the Road
Know and use the “Rules of the Road”. Your boat is subject to U.S. Coast Guard enforced marine traffic
laws known as “Rules of the Road.” There are two sets of rules: the US Inland Navigation Rules and the
International Rules. The latter rules are applicable to all vessels inside the demarcation lines separating
inland and international waters. You may obtain a copy of the rules from any of the following and by
requesting the publication titled “Navigational Rules, International - Inland.”
•
Your local USGC
•
The United States Coast Guard Info Line (800)-368-5647
•
The USCG Headquarters by logging on to uscg.mil
The information here is only a
“brief
” overview.
Please
contact the USCG for detailed information.
•
Audible warning signals:
o
One short horn blast: starboard course change.
o
Two short horn blasts: port course change.
o
Three short horn blasts: astern operation.
o
Five horn blasts: doubt about previous signal or danger.
o
A Five-second horn blast every minute: for fog operation.
•
When overtaking, give-way vessel announces intention with horn blast(s) and waits for a
response, then completes maneuver.
•
When approaching head-on, both boats give way after giving appropriate horn blast(s)
(preferably to starboard).
•
When crossing, a vessel converging from starboard has the right-of-way. Port vessel
gives way (both acknowledge with one short horn blast).
•
Know and observe navigational buoys and markers.
•
Give way to craft under sail.
Alcohol
Don't drink and drive. If you have been drinking, appoint someone who is an experienced boater and has
not been drinking to be the designated driver. Never operate a boat under the influence of drugs or
alcohol. Operation of motorized vessels while under the influence is a Federal offense carrying a
significant penalty.
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