ABC Boating Section 8: state & local regulations

Continuing Education

The ongoing pursuit of learning for personal or professional development in boating knowledge.

Certificate of Number

A state-issued registration document certifying that a vessel is registered.

Hull Identification Number (HIN)

A 12-digit number stamped into a vessel indicating its manufacturing details and ownership.

Visual Distress Signals

Devices required by federal regulations to signal for help during the day and night.

Ignition Shutdown Switch

A device that shuts off the engine if the operator falls overboard, used in personal watercraft.

Diver Down Flag

A red flag with a white diagonal stripe indicating the presence of a diver in the water.

Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS)

Non-native species that threaten local ecosystems, often transported by boats.

Wake Jumping

A prohibited reckless operation involving jumping the wake created by another vessel.

Boating Under Influence (BUI)

Operating a boat while impaired by alcohol or drugs, illegal in all states.

Marine Sanitation Devices

Systems designed to manage waste on larger vessels to prevent pollution in waterways.

State Validation Sticker

A sticker indicating the expiration date of a boat's annual registration.

No Wake Zones

Areas designated to minimize wave action and protect sensitive shorelines.

Throwing Anchor

The act of using an anchor to secure a boat in one position when mooring.

Flame Arrestor

A device on gasoline engines that prevents backfires and potential boat fires.

Education Requirements

State-mandated rules for boating safety courses and minimum ages for boat operation.

Best Practices for Boating

Guidelines to ensure safety and compliance while operating watercraft.

Invasive Species Prevention

Measures to prevent the spread of non-native species through boat inspections and cleaning.

Accident Reporting

The process of documenting and reporting boating incidents to authorities.

Alcohol and Boating Safety

Understanding the risks associated with alcohol consumption while operating a vessel.

Safety Equipment Requirements

Regulations on life jackets, fire extinguishers, and other safety gear for boaters.

Recreational Boating Regulations

State and federal laws governing the operation of leisure vessels and their usage.