Do you need a permit to kayak in Utah?
All boaters – whether you are a Utah resident or nonresident – must take the annual Utah mussel-aware boater course. This includes all kinds of watercraft, including motorized boats and human-powered kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, etc. Paddlesports overall saw 165 fatalities in 2024, down from 183 fatalities in 2023. Drowning accounted for three-quarters of all 556 recreational boating fatalities last year, and of those victims, 87 percent were not wearing life jackets.Here are some laws and tips you need to know to be safe out there. All stand up paddle-boards (SUP), kayaks and canoes must have at least one U. S. Coast Guard-approved wearable or inflatable life jacket for each person on board. Those 12 years of age and younger must wear a life jacket at all times.Paddle Sports Requirements Standup paddleboards (SUP), kayaks, and canoes are becoming more popular on Utah’s waters. Familiarize yourself with the rules of the water before heading out! Each vessel must have at least one U. S. Coast Guard-approved wearable or inflatable life jacket for each person on board.Drowning was by far the most common cause of death for paddlers: Canoe 84% Kayak 87% SUP 90% We must continue to emphasize the importance of wearing a life jacket in our outreach to paddlers.
Do kayaks need to be inspected in Utah?
These inspections are required for all boats and watercraft, including paddleboards and kayaks. In Utah, the only infected waterbody is Lake Powell. Lake Powell is currently the only Utah waterbody infested with invasive quagga mussels.
Do you have to wear a lifejacket on a kayak in Utah?
Standup paddleboards (SUP), kayaks, and canoes are becoming more popular on Utah’s waters. Familiarize yourself with the rules of the water before heading out! Each vessel must have at least one U. S. Coast Guard-approved wearable or inflatable life jacket for each person on board. All motorboats and sailboats must be registered with current registration decals to legally operate on Utah waterways. You do not need to register canoes, kayaks and other vessels not propelled by motor or sail.Yes, a permit is generally required for watercraft, including paddle boards, on Utah’s waters.Including registration, insurance, safety equipment, PFDs and the rules regarding operation on the water. For more information visit Utah Boating Laws. Remember, don’t drink and boat. DUI laws apply in a vessel the same as in a vehicle.
Can you drink while kayaking in Utah?
In Colorado, Wyoming, and North Dakota, a higher BAC limit of 0. Utah the reverse is true and they hold a lower limit of 0. However, these rules do change, so it is always important to do your due diligence and know the laws for anywhere you are kayaking. Operating a boat while intoxicated is a federal offense, subject to a $1,000 fine. In addition, criminal penalties are as high as $5,000, and may even include jail time. State Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Laws are becoming more stringent too.Drinking Liquor In Public Places: It is unlawful to consume liquor in a public building, park or stadium, except when consumption occurs as part of a special event for which a special event permit has been issued under authority of Utah Code Annotated section 32A-7-101, or its successor section.Utah law prohibits anyone from boating under the influence (BUI). This includes the operation of any motorized vessel while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substance, or both.Utah law prohibits anyone from boating under the influence (BUI). This includes the operation of any motorized vessel while under the influence of alcohol, controlled substance, or both. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction times.
Do I have to register a kayak in Utah?
Just like you must have a vehicle registration for your car, you must have a Utah vessel registration and registration decals to legally operate a vessel on Utah waters. Exceptions to registration are: Vessels that are not propelled by a motor or by sail (canoes, kayaks, etc. Standup paddleboards (SUP), kayaks, and canoes are becoming more popular on Utah’s waters. Familiarize yourself with the rules of the water before heading out! Each vessel must have at least one U. S. Coast Guard-approved wearable or inflatable life jacket for each person on board.