Water Craft Registration And Rules

  • REGISTRATION: Watercraft owners must apply for registration and decal. Registration must be carried and displayed upon request.
  • EQUIPMENT: Everyone should wear life jackets. Those 12 and over that are being towed should wear a type 1, 2, or 3 life jacket. Children 12 and younger should wear a type 1 or 2 life jacket.
  • AGE: A child under 12 can operate watercraft powered by a motor of no more than 6 hp without restrictions. Children 12 and under can operate a 35 hp motor supervised onboard by a person at least 16 years of age. Children 12 and under may not operate a boat powered by a motor of more than 35 hp under any condition. Children 12 -15 may operate a boat powered by a motor of more than 6 hp, only if they have passed a boating safety course approved by the DNR, and have onboard their boating safety certificate or are accompanied by a person at least 16 years of age. Children 16 and older may operate any boat on the waters of Michigan.
  • ACCIDENTS: A watercraft accident must be reported to the police if there is a death, disappearance of a person, personal injury, or property damage estimated at $100.00 or more.
  • LIABILIlY OF OWNER: The "owner" of a watercraft is liable for any injury caused by a negligent operator.
  • ALCOHOL: No one shall operate a watercraft if he or she is under the influence of a controlled substance.
  • SAFETY: Always look behind before making a turn. Leave vessel off until all are aboard. Be aware of weather conditions. DO NOT STAY ON THE WATER DURING A THUNDERSTORM!!!!!
  • COURTESY: Use courtesy and common sense while sharing the waterway. Respect the peace and quiet of lake residents. Don't operate watercraft for long periods of time in the same area. Don't chase or harass the wildlife.

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