What is the new boating law in Florida?
A sweeping new law set to take effect on July 1, 2025, marks a major shift in how law enforcement interacts with Florida boaters. Known as the “Boater Freedom Act,” the law prohibits law enforcement officers from stopping or boarding vessels without probable cause or a suspected violation. Key Provisions of ‘Lucy’s Law’ Mandatory Boater Education: Individuals who have not been Florida residents for at least five years will be required to complete a certified boater safety course before operating a vessel. This expands upon previous requirements that applied only to those born after January 1, 1988.
What is the life jacket law in Florida?
Anyone operating, riding on, or being towed behind a personal watercraft must wear an approved life jacket or PFD. Inflatable PFDs are prohibited for personal watercraft use. No one may water ski or use another aquaplaning device unless they are wearing a USCG-approved life jacket or PFD. Personal Flotation Devices. Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs), also referred to as lifejackets and buoyancy aids, are categorized as Commercial PFDs, Recreational PFDs, or Throwable PFDs (e. Ring Buoys, Cushions, etc.Type I PFDs: Wearable Offshore Life Jackets. These vests are geared for rough or remote waters where rescue may take a while. They provide the most buoyancy, are excellent for flotation, and will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water.PFDs, Flares Fire Extinguishers, Sound Devices and Lights One personal flotation device (in good condition) for each person on board, plus a throw-able cushion or ring is required. You must have the PFDs out of the plastic and in a READILY accessible location. The throw-able should be close by the steering station.These nonmotorized vessels are subject to the same safety and operational requirements as other watercraft in Florida. Life jacket – One U. S. Coast Guard–approved wearable life jacket for each person on board. Must be worn by children under 6 years of age. All others strongly advised to wear a life jacket.
What is the BUI law in Florida?
Florida BUI Law Under Florida statute 327. The blood alcohol limit for a boater over the age of 21 is 0. What are the restrictions on boating and drinking in Florida? While open container laws don’t pertain to boats like they do cars, and it’s legal to consume alcohol on vessels, boat operators are held to the same legal standards as drivers on the road and must be sober.
Do you have to wear a life jacket on a paddleboard in Florida?
These nonmotorized vessels are subject to the same safety and operational requirements as other watercraft in Florida. Life jacket – One U. S. Coast Guard–approved wearable life jacket for each person on board. Must be worn by children under 6 years of age. All others strongly advised to wear a life jacket. These nonmotorized vessels are subject to the same safety and operational requirements as other watercraft in Florida. Life jacket – One U. S. Coast Guard–approved wearable life jacket for each person on board. Must be worn by children under 6 years of age. All others strongly advised to wear a life jacket.Life Jackets Each child under the age of 6 must wear a Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD), while the kayak is moving. Each person riding in the kayak must have an approved PFD available inside the kayak.Always wear a US Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) while on the water. The PFD should be in good condition and fit properly. Always carry a whistle, preferably in your PFD. In Florida, these items are nearly as important to wear as a PFD: wide brimmed hat, sunscreen, sunglasses.