of vermont boatnig laws and responsi bilities provided by · boating basics 5 before beginning to...

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of Vermont Boating Laws and responsiBiLities

Troopers are your besT proTecTionCopyright © 2010 Boat Ed, www.boat-ed.com

The Vermont State Police are responsible for the safety education of Vermont boaters. The Boat Vermont safe boating program is recognized nationally and approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA). Many insurance companies offer a discount for successful completion.

Over the Internet …Learn what you need to be a safe boat operator online! The complete study course with exciting visuals awaits you on the Net. Interactive graphics help you learn and retain information on boating safely in Vermont.

Successfully complete the online test, and you will receive the official State of Vermont boating safety education certificate.

Start today at www.boat-ed.com/vt

1.

In a classroom … Share the learning experience with other interested students and a qualified instructor. The Vermont State Police can help you find a classroom course in your area.

Visit www.dps.state.vt.us/vtsp/boat for information or call 802-878-7111 ext. 2211

2.

Now!Now!Safe Boating Program

Boating safety certification is now required by law for many Vermont boaters. You have two ways to obtain your certification.

Copyright © 2010 Boat Ed, www.boat-ed.com

www.boat-ed.com/vt

of

Vermont Boating Laws

and responsiBiLities

Published by Boat Ed. Printed in the U.S.A. 2906 Ladybird Lane, Dallas, TX 75220, 214-351-0461.

Copyright © 2010 by Boat Ed. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be repro-duced in any form or by any process without permission in writing from Boat Ed. Effort has been made to make this publication as complete and accurate as possible. All references contained in this publication have been compiled from sources believed to be reliable, and to represent the best current opinion on the subject. Boat Ed is not responsible or liable for any claims, liabilities, damages, or other adverse effects or consequences to any person or property caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly from the application or use of the infor-mation contained in this publication. P0210


2

Table of Contents

Before Going OutVessel Length Classes . . . . . . . . . . . 4Vessel Capacity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Fueling a Vessel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Fuel Selector Switch on a PWC . . 6Preventing Theft . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6Filing a Float Plan . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7Pre-Departure Checklist . . . . . . . . 7

On the WaterEncountering Other Vessels . . . . . 8Navigation Rules . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9Nighttime Navigation . . . . . . . . . 10U.S. Aids to Navigation

System . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

Specifically for PWCsSteering and Stopping a PWC . . 16Ignition Safety Switches . . . . . . . 17PWC Courtesy and Environmental

Considerations . . . . . . . . . . . . 17

Before Going OutRegistering Your Vessel . . . . . . . . 18Where To Title/Register . . . . . . . 19Other Facts About

Titling and Registering . . . . . . 20Hull Identification Number . . . . 20Schedule of Fees . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21Buying or Selling a Vessel . . . . . . 22What You Need To

Register/Title a Vessel . . . . . . . 23Who May Operate a Vessel . . . . . 24Marine Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25Enforcement . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25

Required Equipment Personal Flotation Devices . . . . . 26Navigation Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Fire Extinguishers . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Ventilation Systems . . . . . . . . . . . 31Backfire Flame Arrestors . . . . . . . 31Mufflers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Sound-Producing Devices . . . . . . 32Visual Distress Signals . . . . . . . . . 32

Boating

It’s the

BASICSBASICS

LAW!LAW!


3

Collected Management Rules for Vermont Lakes, Ponds, & Reservoirs ........................................... 44

Lake-Specific Rules Regulating the Use of Particular Public Waters ................................................... 52

Stop the Spread of Nuisance Species ......................................................... 63

Vermont Required Equipment Checklist ................................................... 65

On the WaterUnlawful Operation . . . . . . . . . . 34Alcohol and Drugs . . . . . . . . . . . 36Accidents and Casualties . . . . . . . 37Homeland Security

Restrictions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Obstructing Navigation . . . . . . . . 38Diver-Down Flags . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Discharge of Trash . . . . . . . . . . . . 38Discharge of Oil . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39Discharge of Sewage

and Waste . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 39

Specifically for PWCsRequirements for PWCs . . . . . . . 40Sharing Your PWC . . . . . . . . . . . 41

Specifically for SkiingRequirements for

Towing Skiers . . . . . . . . . . . . 42Hand Signals for Skiers . . . . . . . 43

Stay up-to-date on new boating laws!Be sure to stay abreast of new boating laws and requirements.

For state boating law information, contact the Vermont State Police.Visit the website at: • www.dps.state.vt.us/vtsp/boat.Call • 802-878-7111 ext. 2211.

For federal boating laws, visit the U.S. Coast Guard’s boating safety website at www.uscgboating.org.

Information in this handbook does not replace what is specifically legal for boating in Vermont, which is found in the Vermont Statutes and federal laws.


4 Boating Basics

Before going out on the water, take steps to make the outing safe and enjoyable.

Vessel Length ClassesA vessel’s length class determines the ◆

equipment necessary to comply with federal and state laws. Vessels are divided into length classes: ◆

Less than 16 feet •16 feet to less than 26 feet•26 feet to less than 40 feet•40 feet to less than 65 feet•

Length is measured from the tip of the bow ◆

in a straight line to the stern. This does not include outboard motors, brackets, rudders, bow attachments, or swim platforms and ladders that are not a molded part of the hull.

Vessel CapacityAlways check the capacity plate, which is usually ◆

found near the operator’s position or on the vessel’s transom. This plate indicates the maximum weight capacity and maximum number of people that the vessel can carry safely.PWCs and some other vessels are not required to have a ◆

capacity plate. Always follow the recommended capacity in the owner’s manual and on the manufacturer’s warning decal.

Fueling a VesselNever fuel at night unless it is an emergency. If you must refuel after dark, use only electric lights. Try to refuel away from the water or on a commercial fueling ramp.

Before Going Out

Leng

thLe

ngth

Inboards

Outboards


5Boating Basics

Before beginning to fuel: ◆

Dock the boat securely and ask all passengers to exit.•Do not allow anyone to smoke or strike a match.•Check all fuel lines, connections, and fuel vents. •Turn off anything that might cause a spark—engines, •fans, or electrical equipment.Shut off all fuel valves and extinguish all open flames, •such as galley stoves and pilot lights.Close all windows, ports, doors, and other openings to •prevent fumes from entering the boat.Remove portable fuel tanks and fill them on the dock.•

While filling the fuel tank: ◆

Keep the nozzle of the fuel-pump hose in contact with •the tank opening to prevent producing a static spark.Avoid spilling fuel into the boat’s bilge or the water. •Never fill a tank to the brim—leave room to expand.•

The most important safe fueling practice …If your vessel is equipped with a power ventilation system, turn it on for at least four minutes after fueling and before starting your engine to remove gas vapors in the bilge.

After fueling: ◆

Wipe up any spilled fuel.•Open all windows, ports, doors, and other openings.•

Additional Safety Procedures for PWCsDo not tip the PWC in order to fill it all the way up. If ◆

the tank is overfilled, the fuel may expand and spill into the water.After fueling, open the door of ◆

the engine compartment and sniff to check for any evidence of gas fumes. Do this before starting the engine. If you do smell gas fumes, determine the source and make repairs immediately.


6 Boating Basics

Fuel Selector Switch on a PWCThis switch can help you avoid becoming stranded without fuel.

Use the “Off” position when the ◆

PWC’s engine is turned off.Use the “On” position while you ◆

are underway.Use the “Reserve” position if you run out of fuel while ◆

underway. This will allow you to return to shore. Don’t forget to switch back to “On” after refueling.

Preventing TheftDefend against theft of your vessel and equipment.

Store your vessel so that it is not easily accessed. ◆

Store your vessel and trailer in a locked garage or •storage area.Park another vehicle in front of the trailer, or lock the •trailer to a fixed object in a well-lighted area.Secure the vessel and trailer to a fixed object with a •good quality chain and lock. If moored, secure the vessel to the dock with a steel cable and lock.Remove a trailer wheel if parked for an extended time.•Purchase a quality trailer hitch lock and use it.•

Chain and lock the motor and fuel tanks to the vessel. ◆

Mark or engrave all equipment with an identifier such as ◆

your driver’s license number.Photograph or videotape the interior and exterior of your ◆

vessel, showing all installed equipment and additional gear and equipment. Make a complete inventory of your equipment, vessel, and trailer.Remove expensive electronics or other valuables if the ◆

vessel is left unattended. Cover your vessel and always remove the keys. ◆

Title and register your vessel. ◆


7Boating Basics

Filing a Float PlanBefore going out on a vessel, it is always a good idea to leave a float plan with a relative or friend, or at least with a local marina. A float plan should:

Describe the vessel, including its registration number, ◆

length, make, horsepower, and engine type.State where you are going, the detailed route, your ◆

planned departure time, and your expected return time.Give the name, address, and telephone number of each ◆

person on board and an emergency contact.

Pre-Departure ChecklistYou can help assure a good time while operating your vessel by performing this pre-departure check.

Check the weather forecast for the area and time frame ✓during which you will be boating.Make sure that the steering and throttle controls operate ✓properly and all lights are working properly.Check for any fuel leaks from the tank, fuel lines, and ✓carburetor.Check the engine compartment for oil leaks. ✓

Check hose connections for leaks or cracks, and make sure ✓hose clamps are tight. Drain all water from the engine compartment, and be sure ✓the bilge plug is replaced and secure.Check to be sure you have a fully charged engine battery ✓and fire extinguishers. If so equipped, make sure the ignition safety switch and ✓wrist lanyard are in good order.Make sure you have the required number of personal ✓flotation devices (PFDs), and check that they are in good condition.Leave a float plan with a reliable friend or relative. ✓


8 Boating Basics

On the Water

Safe navigation on Vermont waterways is everyone’s responsibility. All operators are equally respon-sible for taking action to avoid collisions.

Encountering Other VesselsEven though no vessel has the “right-of-way” over another vessel, there are some rules that every operator should follow when encountering other vessels. It is the responsibility of both operators to take the action needed to avoid a collision. The next page shows what to do when encountering another vessel.

Encountering Vessels With Limited ManeuverabilityWhen operating a power-driven vessel, you must give ◆

way to:Any vessel not under command, such as an anchored or •disabled vesselAny vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver, such as a •vessel towing another or laying cable, or one constrained by its draft, such as a large ship in a channelA vessel engaged in commercial fishing•A sailboat under sail unless it is overtaking•

When operating a vessel under sail, you must give way to: ◆

Any vessel not under command•Any vessel restricted in its ability to maneuver•A vessel engaged in commercial fishing•

To prevent collisions, every operator should follow the three basic rules of navigation.

Practice good seamanship. ◆

Keep a sharp lookout. ◆

Maintain a safe speed and distance. ◆


9Boating Basics

Navigation Rules There are two terms that help explain these rules.

Stand-on vessel: ◆ The vessel that should maintain its course and speed Give-way vessel: ◆ The vessel that must take early and substantial action to avoid collision by stopping, slowing down, or changing course

Power vs. Power Power vs. Sail

Power vs. Power

Power vs. Power Power vs. Sail

Power vs. Sail

Meeting Head-OnPower vs. Power: Neither vessel is the stand-on vessel. Both vessels should keep to the starboard (right).Power vs. Sail: The powerboat is the give-way vessel. The sailboat is the stand-on vessel.Crossing SituationsPower vs. Power: The vessel on the operator’s port (left) side is the give-way vessel. The vessel on the operator’s starboard (right) side is the stand-on vessel. Power vs. Sail: The powerboat is the give-way vessel. The sailboat is the stand-on vessel. OvertakingPower vs. Power: The vessel that is overtaking another vessel is the give-way vessel. The vessel being overtaken is the stand-on vessel.Power vs. Sail: The vessel that is overtaking another vessel is the give-way vessel. The vessel being overtaken is the stand-on vessel.

Give way!

Give way!

Give way!

Give way!

Give way!

Give way!

Give way!


10 Boating Basics

Nighttime NavigationBe on the lookout for the lights of other vessels when boating at night. Several types of lights serve as navigational aids at night. There are four common navigation lights.

Sidelights: ◆ These red and green lights are called side-lights (also called combination lights) because they are visible to another vessel approaching from the side or head-on. The red light indicates a vessel’s port (left) side; the green indicates a vessel’s starboard (right) side. Sternlight: ◆ This white light is seen from behind the vessel.Masthead Light: ◆ This white light shines forward and to both sides and is required on all power-driven vessels. A masthead light must be displayed by all vessels when under engine power. The absence of this light indicates a sailboat under sail.All-Round White Light: ◆ On power-driven vessels less than 39.4 feet in length, this light may be used to combine a masthead light and sternlight into a single white light that can be seen by other vessels from any direction. This light serves as an anchor light when side-lights are extinguished.

sternlight

sidelights (combination)

masthead light (225 degrees)

sidelights (combination)

all-round white light (360 degrees)


11Boating Basics

Encountering a Sailboat at NightWhen you see only a red light or only a green light, you may be approaching a sailboat under sail and you must give way. The sailboat under sail is always the stand-on vessel!

Give way!

Give way!

When you see only a white light, you are overtaking another vessel. It is the stand-on vessel whether it is underway or anchored. You may go around it on either side.

When you see a green and a white light, you are the stand-on vessel. However, remain alert in case the other vessel operator does not see you or does not know the naviga-tion rules.

When you see a red and a white light, you must give way to the other vessel! Slow down and allow the vessel to pass, or you may turn to the right and pass behind the other vessel.

Give way!

Stand on

Give way!

Give way!

Encountering Vessels at Night


12 Boating Basics

U.S. Aids to Navigation System (ATON)Buoys and markers are the “traffic signals” that guide vessel operators safely along some waterways. They also identify dangerous or controlled areas and give directions and infor-mation. As a recreational boat or PWC operator, you will need to know the lateral navigation markers and non-lateral markers of the U.S. Aids to Navigation System.

Lateral MarkersThese navigation aids mark the edges of safe water areas; for example, directing travel within a channel. The markers use a combination of colors and numbers, which may appear on either buoys or permanently placed markers.

Red colors, red lights, and even numbers indicate the right side of the channel

as a boater enters from the open sea or heads upstream.

Green colors, green lights, and odd numbers indicate the left side of the channel as a boater enters from the open sea or heads upstream.

Red and green colors and/or lights indicate the preferred (primary) channel. If green is on top, the preferred channel is to the right as a boater enters from the open

sea or heads upstream; if red is on top, the preferred channel is to the left.


13Boating Basics

Nuns are red cone-shaped buoys marked with even numbers.

Cans are green cylindrical-shaped buoys marked with odd numbers.

Lighted Buoys use the lateral marker colors and numbers discussed above; in addition, they have a matching colored light.

Daymarks are permanently placed signs attached to structures,

such as posts, in the water. Common daymarks are red triangles (equivalent to

nuns) and green squares (equivalent to cans). They may be lighted also.

Red Right Returningis a reminder of the correct course when returning from

open waters or heading upstream.

open waters

channel channel

open waters


14 Boating Basics

Non-Lateral MarkersNon-lateral markers are navigational aids that give infor-mation other than the edges of safe water areas. The most common are regulatory markers which are white and use orange markings and black lettering. These markers are found on lakes and rivers.

InformationSquares indicate where to find food, supplies, repairs, etc. and give directions and other information.

ControlledCircles indicate a controlled area such as speed limit, no fishing or anchoring, ski only or no skiing, or “slow, no wake.”

ExclusionCrossed diamonds indicate areas off-limits to all vessels such as swimming areas, dams, and spillways.

DangerDiamonds warn of dangers such as rocks, shoals, construction, dams, or stumps. Always proceed with caution.

ROCK

SWIM AREA

MARINAIDLE

SPEEDNO WAKEROCK

SWIM AREA

MARINAIDLE

SPEEDNO WAKE

ROCK

SWIM AREA

MARINAIDLE

SPEEDNO WAKE

ROCK

SWIM AREA

MARINAIDLE

SPEEDNO WAKE


15Boating Basics

Other Non-Lateral Markers

Safe Water Markers are white with red vertical stripes and mark mid-channels or fairways. They may be passed on either side.

Inland Waters Obstruction Markers are white with black vertical stripes and indicate an obstruction to navigation. You should not pass between these buoys and the nearest shore.

Underwater Historic Preservation Area Markers are

yellow special-purpose buoys that mark historic and archeological

sites located on the bottomlands of the waters of Vermont.

Mooring BuoyMooring buoys are white with a blue horizontal band and are found in marinas and other areas where vessels are allowed to anchor.

UNDERWATERHISTORIC PRESERVE


16 Boating Basics

Specifically for PWCs

Remember—no power means no steering control …You must always have power in order to maintain control. If you allow the engine to return to idle or shut off during operation, you lose all steering control. The PWC will continue in the direction it was headed before the engine was shut off, no matter which way the steering control is turned.

A PWC has no brakes. ◆ Always allow plenty of room for stopping. Just because you release the throttle or shut off the engine does not mean you will stop immediately.

steering control

steering nozzle

Steering and Stopping a PWCPWCs are propelled by drawing water ◆

into a pump and then forcing it out under pressure through a steering nozzle at the back of the unit. This “jet” of pressurized water is directed by the steering control—when the steering control is turned, the steering nozzle turns in the same direction. For example, if the steering control is turned right, the nozzle turns right and the jet of water pushes the back of the vessel to the left, which causes the PWC to turn right.

Although a personal watercraft (PWC) is considered an inboard vessel and comes under the same rules and requirements of any other vessel, there are specific considerations for the PWC operator.


17Boating Basics

Ignition Safety SwitchesMost PWCs and powerboats ◆

come equipped by the manu-facturer with an important device called an emergency ignition safety switch. This is a safety device that is designed to shut off the engine if the operator is thrown from the proper operating position.A lanyard is attached to the safety switch and the opera- ◆

tor’s wrist or PFD. The safety switch shuts off the engine if the operator falls off the PWC or out of the powerboat. If your vessel does not come equipped with an ignition safety switch, you should have one installed.In many states, it is illegal to ride your PWC without ◆

attaching the lanyard properly between the switch and yourself.

PWC Courtesy and Environmental ConsiderationsAvoid jumping the wake of a passing boat, or riding too ◆

close to another PWC or boat, which creates risks and is restricted or even prohibited in some states. Vary your operating area, and do not keep repeating the ◆

same maneuver.Avoid congregating with other PWC operators near ◆

shore, which increases annoying noise levels. Avoid making excessive noise near residential and ◆

camping areas, particularly early in the morning. Avoid maneuvers that cause the engine exhaust to lift out ◆

of the water because that increases noise levels.Do not operate a PWC in water less than 30 inches deep. ◆

Avoid causing erosion by operating at slow speed and ◆

by not creating a wake when operating near shore or in narrow streams or rivers.Do not dock or beach your PWC in reeds and grasses. ◆

This could damage fragile environments.Take extra care when fueling your PWC in or near the ◆

water. Fuel on land if possible.Copyright © 2010 Boat Ed, www.boat-ed.com

It’s the Law!18

Before Going Out All operators are required to obey laws that regulate your vessel’s registration, titling, and operation.

Registering Your VesselYou must have a Vermont Certificate of Registration and ◆

validation stickers to operate any vessel propelled by a motor legally on the public waters of Vermont. The only exceptions are:

Non-motorized vessels•Vessels legally registered in another state or country that •have not been within the State of Vermont for more than 90 daysVessels documented by the U.S. Coast Guard•

Vessels documented by the U.S. Coast Guard or regis- ◆

tered legally in another state or country must validate their registration numbers by obtaining a validation sticker from the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles if the vessels are used in the waters of Vermont for at least 30 days in any calendar year.The Certificate of Registration and validation stickers are ◆

obtained by submitting the proper application and fee to the Department of Motor Vehicles.The Certificate of ◆

Registration (registration card) must be on board and available for inspec-tion by an enforcement officer whenever the vessel is operated. The registration number ◆

and validation stickers must be displayed as follows. Number must be painted, applied as a decal, or •otherwise affixed to both sides of the bow.

Sea Ray 2008 Red

Gas ABC67689B606

18 10 FG Inboard Pleasure May 2011

John Doe

103 South Main Street

Waterbury, VT 05671-2101


It’s the Law! 19

Number must read from left to right on both sides of •the bow. Number must be in at least three-inch-high • block letters. Number’s color must contrast sharply with its background.Letters must be separated from the numbers by a space •or hyphen: VT 3717 ZW or VT-3717-ZW.No other numbers may displayed on either side of the •bow.Stickers must be displayed on both sides, on the •forward half of the vessel.

Where To Title and Register Your VesselYour Certificate of Registration, validation stickers, and title can be obtained by submitting the proper application and fee to: Department of Motor Vehicles 120 State Street Montpelier, Vermont 05603-0001To obtain registration/title and validation stickers application forms:

Call the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles at ◆

802-828-2000.Visit the DMV website at ◆ http://dmv.vermont.gov and download registration forms.Visit any Department of Motor Vehicles, any State ◆

Police office, or some Town Clerk’s offices.Visit many marine dealers and marinas. ◆

VT 3717 ZW ■

Spaces or hyphens should appear here.

Validation Sticker


20 It’s the Law!

Other Facts About Titling and RegisteringAll motorized vessels that are 16 feet long or longer and ◆

manufactured as a 1989 model year or newer must be titled as well as registered. The application to obtain the title to your vessel is a part of the same form used to register the vessel. The registration fee includes the validation stickers. (see ◆

next page for fees.)Registration is valid for one year from date of issue. You ◆

may not register for a partial year. The same registration number remains with your vessel from year to year unless you fail to renew.If you change your address or transfer ownership of ◆

your vessel, you must notify the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) within 15 days of the change.If your registered vessel is lost, stolen, or abandoned, ◆

you must report it to local authorities and to the DMV within 15 days.If you lose or destroy your Certificate of Registration or ◆

a sticker, you must apply for a duplicate and submit a processing fee.Larger recreational vessels owned by U.S. citizens may ◆

(at the option of the owner) be documented by the U.S. Coast Guard. Owners of documented vessels must apply for and display Vermont validation stickers.

Hull Identification NumberThe Hull Identification ◆

Number (HIN) is a unique, 12-digit number assigned by the manufac-turer to vessels built after 1972.

Abc 67689 b6 06

Hull Serial Model Number YearManufacturer’s Date of Identification Manufacture Code (MIC)


It’s the Law! 21

Hull Identification Numbers: ◆

Distinguish one vessel from another .•Are engraved in the fiberglass or on a metal plate •permanently attached to the transom.

You should write down your HIN and put it in a place ◆

separate from your vessel in case warranty problems arise or your vessel is stolen.If the HIN is missing or nonexistent, such as with a ◆

homemade vessel, apply for an identification number from the Department of Motor Vehicles.

If the vessel does not need a title or is valued at less than •$1,000, a number will be assigned and mailed to you. You will attach it to the vessel. If the vessel requires a title or is valued at $1,000 or •more, a DMV Inspector will attach the HIN.

Schedule of FeesRegistration of Motorboats (fees by length)

Less than 16 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 27.0016 feet to less than 26 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 43.0026 feet to less than 40 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 70.0040 feet and longer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 136.00

Validation Stickers Only (fees by length)Less than 16 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 27.0016 feet to less than 26 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 43.0026 feet to less than 40 feet . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 70.0040 feet and longer . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 136.00

Other FeesTransfer fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 5.00Duplicate Registration Certificate fee . . . . . . . . .$ 2.00Title fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 19.00Lien fee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 9.00Duplicate Title fee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .$ 19.00


22 It’s the Law!

Buying or Selling a VesselIf a vessel is purchased from a marine dealer, it may be ◆

registered and titled through the dealer. You pay the regis-tration and title fees to the dealer, and the dealer issues a temporary registration valid for 30 days. You receive your permanent registration and title from the DMV by mail. If you sell a vessel, you must: ◆

Give the new owner a bill of sale, including the HIN. •Transfer registration (see below) within 15 days of the •sale if it is a registered vessel.Notify the DMV within 30 days if your vessel has, or •should have had, validation stickers.Have each owner shown on the title properly sign the •back of the title, selling it to the new owner.

To transfer vessel registration to a new owner: ◆

The former owner completes the reverse side of the •current registration certificate and sends it to the DMV, along with the other items listed on the next page. Date of sale and the name and address of the new owner must be completed on the back of the registration certificate. If the new owner wishes to retain the registration •number on the purchased vessel, the new owner must complete a new registration and title application and Vermont Sales & Use Tax Return and send both, with the correct fees, to the DMV (see address on page 19).In Vermont, you may transfer your registration if •you purchase a new vessel. When transferring the registration, the new vessel may be registered for the remainder of the current registration year. File the new application and Vermont Sales & Use Tax Return, and pay the transfer fee plus any additional fee for the change in length. The validation stickers are not transferable to the new vessel. The owner must apply for new validation stickers.


It’s the Law! 23

What You Need To Register and Title a VesselObtain New Registration and/or Title

Registration and title application•If a previously owned vessel, Vermont Sales & Use •Tax Return, proof that Vermont Sales & Use Tax has been paid, or proof of tax paid in another stateTitle if a previously owned vessel or Manufacturer’s •Certificate of Origin (MCO) for a new vesselProper fees•

Transfer Registration and TitleRegistration and title application•Vermont Sales & Use Tax Return, proof that •Vermont Sales & Use Tax has been paid, or proof of tax paid in another statePrevious registration certificate showing to whom •your old vessel was sold or assignedTitle, properly assigned•Visual verification of the (HIN) Hull Identification •Number by a certified law enforcement officerProper fees•

Obtain Validation StickersApplication for vessel validation•Proof of valid registration or documentation from •another state or provinceVermont Sales & Use Tax Return, proof that •Vermont Sales & Use Tax has been paid, or proof of tax paid in another stateProper fees•

Obtain Title for a Homemade VesselRegistration and title application•Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin to a Homemade •Vessel (available from DMV)Application for assignment of Vermont Hull •Identification Number (HIN) to a vesselProper fees•


24 It’s the Law!

Who May Operate a VesselAll persons born after January 1, 1974, must complete ◆

an approved boating safety education course successfully to operate any motorized vessel legally (this includes personal watercraft). The boating safety education course must be approved by ◆

the Vermont State Police. Those successfully completing a course are issued a certificate by the Vermont State Police, which is valid for the student’s lifetime. No one younger than 12 years of age may receive a certificate. Those younger than 12 years of age must take a classroom course.Persons required ◆

to have completed the course must carry the course certificate on board when operating a motorized vessel. Those born after January 1, 1974, are exempted from the ◆

above if they: Are licensed by the U.S. Coast Guard to operate a •commercial vessel or …Operate the vessel only on a private lake or pond • or …Are not a resident of Vermont and have proof that they •have passed an approved boater education course in another state.

No one under 12 years of age may operate any vessel ◆

powered by a motor of more than six horsepower legally, even if the person has completed a boating safety education course successfully.No one under 16 years of age may operate a personal ◆

watercraft (PWC) legally, even if the person has completed a boating safety education course successfully.


It’s the Law! 25

Marine Events To hold a marine parade, regatta, race, tournament, ◆

exhibition, or any other event on Vermont waters, you must obtain authorization from the Vermont State Police.The person in ◆

charge of the event must apply to the Vermont State Police for a permit at least 15 days prior to the event.

EnforcementThe boating laws of Vermont are enforced by the officers of the Vermont State Police, game wardens, U.S. Coast Guard officers, and any other authorized peace officer or law enforcement officer. The U.S. Coast Guard also has enforcement authority on all federally controlled waters.

An operator must ◆

stop his or her vessel when signalled to do so by an officer wearing an identifying insignia or by a law enforcement vessel sounding a siren or flashing a blue light. It is illegal to fail to stop or to try to elude the officer.The officer has the authority to stop and board your ◆

vessel in order to check that you are complying with state and federal laws.


It’s the Law!26

Required EquipmentWhen preparing to go out on a vessel, the operator must check that the legally required equipment is on board.

Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)All vessels, except sailboards, must carry one wearable ◆

U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD for each person on board.In addition to the above requirement, vessels 16 feet ◆

in length or longer must have one U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type IV PFD on board and readily accessible.Children under 12 years of age must ◆ wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type I, II, or III PFD at all times while underway on the open deck of any vessel.A person under 16 years of age must ◆ wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type I, II, or III PFD at all times while on board a sailboard.Everyone on board a PWC must ◆ wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type I, II, or III PFD.Anyone being towed behind a vessel must ◆ wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type I, II, or III PFD. Ski belts are not approved personal flotation devices.Besides being USCG–approved, all PFDs must be: ◆

In good and serviceable condition.•Readily accessible, • which means you are able to put the PFD on quickly in an emergency. Of the proper size for the intended wearer.• Sizing for PFDs is based on body weight and chest size.


It’s the Law! 27

TYPE I: Offshore Life JacketsThese vests are geared for rough or remote waters where rescue may take awhile. They provide the most buoyancy, are excellent for flotation, and will turn most unconscious persons face up in the water.

TYPE II: Near-Shore VestsThese vests are good for calm waters when quick rescue is likely. A Type II may not turn some unconscious wearers face up in the water.TYPE III: Flotation AidsThese vests or full-sleeved jackets are good for calm waters when quick rescue is likely. They are not recom-mended for rough waters since they will not turn most unconscious persons face up. TYPE IV: Throwable DevicesThese cushions and ring buoys are designed to be thrown to someone in trouble. Since a Type IV is not designed to be worn, it is neither for rough waters nor for persons who are unable to hold onto it.TYPE V: Special-Use DevicesThese vests, deck suits, hybrid PFDs, and others are designed for specific activities such as windsurfing, kayaking, or water-skiing. To be acceptable, Type V PFDs must be used in accordance with their label.


28 It’s the Law!

Navigation LightsThe required navigation lights must be displayed between sunset and sunrise and during periods of restricted visibility. Power-Driven Vessels When UnderwayIf less than 65.6 feet long, these vessels must exhibit the lights as shown in illustration 1. Remember, power-driven vessels include sailboats operating under engine power. The required lights are:

Red and green sidelights visible from a distance of at least ◆

two miles away—or if less than 39.4 feet long, at least one mile away—on a dark, clear night.An all-round white light or both a masthead light and a ◆

sternlight. These lights must be visible from a distance of at least two miles away on a dark, clear night. The all-round white light (or the masthead light) must be at least 3.3 feet higher than the sidelights.

Unpowered Vessels When Underway Unpowered vessels are sailboats or vessels that are paddled, poled, or rowed.

If less than 65.6 feet long ◆ , these vessels must exhibit the lights as shown in illustration 2. The required lights are:

Red and green sidelights visible from at least two miles •away—or if less than 39.4 feet long, at least one mile away.A sternlight visible from at least two miles away.•

If less than 23.0 feet long ◆ , these vessels should:If practical, exhibit the same lights as required for •unpowered vessels less than 65.6 feet in length.If not practical, have on hand at least one lantern or •flashlight shining a white light as in illustration 3.

All Vessels When Not Underway All vessels are required to display a white light visible in all directions whenever they are moored or anchored outside a designated mooring area between sunset and sunrise.


It’s the Law! 29

1. Power-Driven Vessels Less Than 65.6 Feet

2. Unpowered Vessels Less Than 65.6 Feet

Vessel operators should never leave shore without a flashlight. Even if you plan to return before dark, unfore-seen developments might delay your return past nightfall.

3. Unpowered Vessels Less Than 23.0 Feet

An alternative to the sidelights and sternlight is a combina-tion red, green, and white light, which must be exhibited near the top of the mast.

The masthead light and sternlight may be combined as an all-round white light on vessels less than 39.4 feet long. Less than 39.4 feet only


30 It’s the Law!

Fire ExtinguishersAll motorized vessels are required to have a Type B, ◆

U.S. Coast Guard–approved fire extinguisher(s) on board. Vessels less than 26 feet in length that do not carry passengers for hire are exempt from this require-ment if the vessel is constructed in a way that flammable or explosive gases and vapors cannot be trapped in any compartment or space in the vessel.Approved types of fire extinguishers are identified by the ◆

following marking on the label—“Marine Type USCG Approved”—followed by the size and type symbols and the approval number.Extinguishers should be placed in an accessible area—not ◆

near the engine or in a compartment, but where they can be reached immediately. Be sure you know how to operate them, and inspect extinguishers regularly to ensure they are in working condition and fully charged.Use this chart to ◆

determine the size and quantity required for your vessel.

Fire Extinguisher Requirements Classification Foam Carbon Dioxide Dry Chemical type & size minimum gallons minimum pounds minimum pounds B-I 1¼ 4 2 B-II 2½ 15 10

Without With Length of Vessel Fixed System Fixed System* Less than 26 ft. one B-I None26 ft. to less than 40 ft. two B-I or one B-II one B-I40 ft. to less than 65 ft. three B-I or two B-I or one B-II and one B-I one B-II * refers to a permanently installed fire extinguisher system


It’s the Law! 31

Ventilation SystemsThe purpose of ventilation systems is to avoid explosions by removing flammable gases. Properly installed ventilation systems greatly reduce the chance of a life-threatening explosion.

All gasoline-powered ◆

vessels, constructed in a way that would entrap fumes, must have at least two ventila-tion ducts fitted with cowls to remove the fumes.If your vessel is equipped with a power ventilation ◆

system, turn it on for at least four minutes both after fueling and before starting your engine. If your vessel is not equipped with a power ventilation ◆

system (for example, a personal watercraft), open the engine compartment and sniff for gasoline fumes before starting the engine.

Backfire Flame ArrestorsBackfire flame arrestors are designed to prevent the ignition of gasoline vapors in case the engine backfires.

All powerboats (except outboards) that are fueled with ◆

gasoline must have an approved backfire flame arrestor on each carburetor. Backfire flame arrestors must be: ◆

In good and serviceable condition • and …U.S. Coast Guard–approved (must comply with SAE •J-1928 or UL 1111 standards).

Periodically clean the flame arrestor and check for damage. ◆

MufflersAll vessel engines must be equipped with an effective muffling device or underwater exhaust. Vessel operators may not hear sound signals or voices if the engine is not adequately muffled.

The noise level of any motorized vessel measured at a ◆

distance of 50 feet or more from the vessel must not exceed 82 decibels in normal operating environments.The use of cutouts is prohibited. ◆


32 It’s the Law!

Sound-Producing DevicesVessels less than 65.6 feet in length, which includes ◆

PWCs, are required to carry on board a whistle or horn or some other means to make an efficient sound signal audible for at least one-half mile.Vessels that are 65.6 feet or more in length are required ◆

to carry on board a whistle or horn, and a bell that are audible for at least one mile.

Visual Distress Signals (VDSs)Vessels on federally controlled waters must be equipped ◆

with visual distress signals that are U.S. Coast Guard–approved, in serviceable condition, and readily accessible.All vessels, regardless of length or type, are required to ◆

carry night signals when operating between sunset and sunrise. Most vessels must carry day signals also; excep-tions to the requirement for day signals are:

Recreational vessels that are less than 16 feet in length•Non-motorized open sailboats that are less than 26 feet •in lengthManually propelled vessels•

Common Sound Signals Restricted Visibility

One prolonged blast ◆ at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by powerboats underway.One prolonged blast plus two short blasts ◆ at intervals of not more than two minutes is the signal used by sailboats under sail alone.

WarningOne prolonged blast ◆ is a warning signal (for example, when coming around a blind bend or exiting a slip).Five (or more) short, rapid blasts ◆ signal danger or signal that you do not understand the other boater’s intentions.


It’s the Law! 33

Note: Although Lakes Champlain and Memphremagog are ◆

under federal control, VDSs are not required on these waters.If pyrotechnic VDSs are used, a minimum of three must ◆

be carried in the vessel. VDSs are classified as day signals (visible in bright ◆

sunlight), night signals (visible at night), or both day and night signals. VDSs are either pyrotechnic (smoke and flames) or non-pyrotechnic (non-combustible).

Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals Orange Smoke Red Meteor Red Flare Day Signal Day and Night Signal Day and Night Signal

Non-Pyrotechnic Visual Distress Signals Electric Light Orange Flag Night Signal Day Signal

Federally Controlled WatersVessels must observe federal requirements when operating on:

Coastal waters ◆

The Great Lakes ◆

Territorial seas ◆

Waters which are two miles ◆

wide or wider and are directly connected to one of the above

Arm SignalAlthough this signal does not meet VDS equipment require-ments, wave your arms to summon help if you do not have other distress signals on board.


It’s the Law!34

On the WaterIn addition to the laws mentioned previously, here are some other Vermont regulations which apply when vessel operators are on the water.

Unlawful OperationVermont law states that these dangerous operating practices are illegal.

Careless and Reckless Operation ◆ of a vessel or the reckless manipulation of water skis, a surfboard, or a similar device is operating in a manner that causes danger to the life, limb, or property of any person. Examples of illegal, reckless operation are:

Boating in restricted areas without regard for other •boaters or persons, posted speeds and wake restrictions, diver-down flags, etc.Boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs•Failing to follow the navigation rules shown on •pages 8-9Weaving through congested waterway traffic•Swerving at the last possible moment in order to avoid •collisionCausing danger or damage from the wake of your vessel•Chasing, harassing, or disturbing wildlife with your •vessel

Overloading ◆ is loading the vessel beyond a safe carrying capacity, taking into consideration the weather and other operating conditions.


It’s the Law! 35

Improper Speed or Distance ◆ is not maintaining a proper speed or distance while operating a vessel or while towing a person on water skis or any similar device. Specifically, the following actions are illegal:

Operating a vessel (except sailboards) at greater than •“no wake speed” within 200 feet of:

The shoreline -A person in the water -A canoe, rowboat, or other vessel -An anchored or moored vessel with a person on board -An anchorage or dock -

Operating a vessel at speeds of five miles per hour or •greater within 200 feet of a marked swimming areaOperating a vessel at speeds that may cause danger, •injury, or damage. Be aware of and obey all regulatory markers, including areas marked as “no wake”

Violating Underwater Historic Preservation Area ◆

Requirements is the failure to follow the requirements that govern operation in areas marked “State of Vermont Underwater Historic Preserve.” Vessels may not operate in these areas. Additional requirements also apply in these areas.

A vessel may secure to a yellow buoy (• see page 15) only if diving at the preserve. These vessels must be 35 feet in length or less and display a diver-down flag. No more than one vessel may moor to a yellow buoy.When a vessel is secured to a yellow buoy, all other •vessels must stay at least 200 feet from the buoy.A vessel may not anchor within 200 feet of a yellow •buoy.

“No Wake Speed” means …operating your vessel at a speed at which the vessel does not produce a wake, not to exceed five miles per hour.


36 It’s the Law!

Alcohol and DrugsVermont law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxi-cated (BWI) due to alcohol, drugs, or any combination.

Vermont law states that a person is considered to be intox- ◆

icated if he or she has a concentration of alcohol of 0.08% or more (based on a chemical analysis of breath or blood) or is under the influence of alcohol or any other drug to a degree that he or she is incapable of operating safely.Vermont law establishes the following penalties. ◆

Upon first conviction, offenders lose the privilege to •operate any vessel (except for a non-motorized canoe or rowboat) for up to one year, must complete successfully an alcohol program at their own expense, and are fined up to $750.Upon subsequent convictions, the fine is increased up •to $1,000.A person boating while intoxicated who causes the •death of someone will, upon conviction, be imprisoned for up to five years, fined up to $2,000, or both impris-oned and fined.

Vermont law has special provisions for operators under ◆

21 years of age.It is unlawful for those under 21 years to operate with a •blood alcohol concentration of 0.02% or more.For a first violation, the offender loses the privilege to •operate any vessel (except for non-motorized canoe or rowboat) for at least six months and must complete successfully an alcohol program at their own expense. For subsequent violations, privilege to operate is lost for one year or until the person is 21 years old, whichever is longer.

Don’t Drink and Boat!

Just remember this simple rule:


It’s the Law! 37

A person under 21 years old who refuses to submit to a •breath test is subject to the same penalties as BWI.

By operating a vessel on Vermont waters, you have ◆

consented to be tested for alcohol or drugs if requested by a law enforcement officer.

Accidents and CasualtiesAn operator involved in a boating accident must: ◆

Stop his or her vessel • immediately at the scene and …Assist anyone injured in the accident or minimize any •danger caused by the accident, unless doing so would seriously endanger his or her vessel or passengers and …Give his or her name, address, and identifying number •of his or her vessel in writing to anyone injured from the accident and to the owner of any damaged property.

The operator also must file an accident report with the ◆

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles within 36 hours of the accident if:

A person dies or disappears • or …A person is injured requiring treatment beyond first aid •or …Damage to the vessel and other property exceeds $100.•

Accident report forms are available from any office of the ◆

Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles or any office of the Vermont State Police.

Homeland Security Restrictions Do not approach within 100 yards and slow to minimum ◆

speed within 500 yards of any U.S. Naval vessel. If you need to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. Naval vessel for safe passage, you must contact the vessel or the USCG escort vessel on VHF-FM channel 16. Observe and avoid all security zones. Avoid commercial ◆

port operation areas, especially those that involve military, cruise-line, or petroleum facilities.Observe and avoid other restricted areas near dams, ◆

power plants, etc. Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in the channel. ◆

Keep a sharp eye out for anything out of the ordinary, ◆

and report it to the closest authority. Copyright © 2010 Boat Ed, www.boat-ed.com

38 It’s the Law!

Obstructing NavigationIt is illegal to:

Operate any vessel in such a way that it will interfere ◆

unnecessarily with the safe navigation of other vessels.Anchor a vessel in the traveled portion of a river or ◆

channel in a way that will prevent or interfere with any other vessel passing through the same area.Moor or attach a vessel to a buoy (other than a mooring ◆

buoy), beacon, light, or any other navigational aid placed on public waters by proper authorities.Move, displace, tamper with, damage, or destroy any ◆

navigational aid.Obstruct a pier, wharf, boat ramp, or access to any ◆

facility.

Diver-Down FlagsScuba divers or snorkelers must display a diver-down flag ◆

to mark their diving area. Vessels must not operate within 200 feet of a displayed ◆

diver-down flag.

Discharge of TrashIt is illegal to dump refuse, garbage, or plastics into any ◆

state or federally controlled waters. You must store trash in a container while on board and ◆

place it in a proper receptacle after returning to shore.

A rectangular red flag, at least 12 x 12 inches, with a white diagonal stripe is required on Vermont waters.

A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag) is required on federal and international waters.

Divers Flag

Alfa Flag


It’s the Law! 39

If boating on federally controlled waters and your vessel ◆

is 26 feet or longer, you must display a Garbage Disposal Placard that is at least 4 x 9 inches and notifies passengers and crew about discharge restrictions.

Discharge of Oil and Other Hazardous SubstancesIt is illegal to discharge oil or hazardous substances. ◆

You are not allowed to dump oil into the bilge of the ◆

vessel without means for proper disposal. You must discharge oil waste to a reception facility. ◆

On recreational vessels, a bucket or bailer is adequate. You must immediately notify the U.S. Coast Guard ◆

(1-800-424-8802) if your vessel discharges oil or hazardous substances in the water. You also must call Vermont Emergency Management (1-800-641-5005) and report the discharge. If boating on federally controlled waters and your vessel ◆

is 26 feet or longer, you must display a 5 x 8-inch placard made of durable material, fixed in a conspicuous place in the machinery spaces or at the bilge pump control station, stating the Federal Water Pollution Control Act’s law.

Discharge of Sewage and Waste It is illegal for a vessel to discharge sewage into the waters ◆

of Vermont. All vessels equipped with a marine toilet must have a ◆

waste-water holding system to prevent the discharge of waste products into surrounding waters.Any holding tank that is designed to allow discharge into ◆

the water (such as a those with a “Y” valve) must have the openings sealed shut. Also any discharge lines, pipes, or hoses must be disconnected and stored while the vessel is on Vermont waters.Residential use of vessels with overnight sleeping facilities ◆

is prohibited on waters that do not have sanitary waste pump-out facilities.


It’s the Law!40

Specifically for PWCsPWC operators must obey laws that apply to other vessels as well as obey additional requirements that apply specifically to the operation of personal watercraft.

Requirements Specific to PWCsEveryone on board a PWC must ◆ wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type I, II, or III personal flotation device (life jacket).An operator of a PWC equipped with a lanyard-type ◆

ignition safety switch must attach the lanyard to his or her person, clothing, or PFD.PWCs may not be operated between sunset and sunrise. ◆

You must be at least 16 years of age to operate a PWC. ◆

VT 3717 ZW ■


It’s the Law! 41

Sharing Your PWC … Safely!Sharing the fun of your personal watercraft (PWC) with friends is all part of the boating experience. Before you share your PWC, however, make sure that others you allow to operate it understand their responsibilities as an operator. They need to know that they have the same responsibilities as any other vessel operator, including obeying the naviga-tion rules.

In addition:Make sure that anyone you allow to operate your PWC ◆

meets the minimum age and education requirements for PWC operation in Vermont and the local waterway you are using. Show new ◆

operators how to start and reboard the PWC while on shore or in shallow water. Explain how to ◆

steer and control the PWC. Tell all new operators and remind experienced operators that power is required for steering control!Make sure that the operator understands how to use the ◆

ignition safety switch and attaches the lanyard to his or her person or PFD before starting the engine.Have anyone new to PWCs go out in an uncongested ◆

area first. Tell them to stay clear of other PWCs, boats, or persons in the water.Explain how to recognize a “slow, no wake” speed marker ◆

and what to do when approaching one.


It’s the Law!42

Vessel operators towing a person(s) on water skis or a similar device have additional laws.

Requirements for Towing Skiers

All persons being towed ◆

behind a vessel on water skis or any other device must wear a U.S. Coast Guard–approved Type I, II, or III personal flotation device (life jacket). Ski belts are not approved personal flotation devices.Every vessel towing a person(s) on water skis or any other ◆

device must have a person who is at least 12 years old on board, in addition to the vessel operator, in a position to observe the towed person(s).If towing a skier with a personal watercraft, the PWC ◆

should be rated for at least three people—the operator, the observer, and the skier.A reasonable distance from other vessels, people, and ◆

property must be maintained so as not to endanger life or property. Unless necessary for landing or leaving shore, it is illegal to cause the towed device or person being towed to approach within 100 feet of:

A person swimming•A canoe, rowboat, or other small vessel with a person •on board

Some areas less than 200 feet from the shoreline may ◆

be designated for water-skiing. These areas may have special rules governing their use (see “Lake-Specific Rules Regulating the Use of Particular Public Waters”).

Specifically for Skiing

■ VT 3717 ZW


It’s the Law! 43

Stop

Knowing proper hand signals will help the skier(s) communicate with their boat operator or the observer.

Hand Signals for Skiers

Back to dock

Turn rightTurn left

Speed OKSlow downSpeed up

Skier OK Skier down—watch!


44

Collected Management Rules for Vermont Lakes, Ponds, & ReservoirsFootnotes to Collected Management Rules(1) The collected rules in this table reflect the general rules set out in Section 3 of Vermont Use of Public Water Rules for all lakes, ponds, and reservoirs that are public waters and are located wholly within the State of Vermont (i.e., these rules do not apply to Lake Champlain, Lake Mem- phremagog, Wallace Pond, and Connecticut River Reservoirs) as modified for individual bodies of water by lake-specific rules adopted under 10 V.S.A. §1424, except: (a) When in conflict with rules adopted by another agency with jurisdiction over the public waters or a particular use of the waters; or (b) When law enforcement, emergencies, or the performance of official duties by a governmental agency require otherwise.(2) Thirty contiguous acres outside the shoreland safety zone (i.e., more than 200 feet from any shore).(3) The rule prohibits the use of internal combustion motors to power vessels on those lakes, ponds, or reservoirs indicated.(4) The rule establishes a 5 m.p.h. maximum speed limit for vessels powered by motor on those lakes, ponds, or reservoirs indicated. The notation “N/A” means no numeric speed limit is established; however, the prohibition in existing law against careless and negligent operation (23 V.S.A. §3311(a)) still applies.(5) The seasonal prohibition on the use by aircraft does not apply on those lakes, ponds, or reservoirs where such use is specifically authorized under 5 V.S.A. Chapter 9, now or in the future (see 10 V.S.A. §1424(d)).(6) See “Lake-Specific Rules,” pages 52-62.(7) Restrictions adopted by authorities other than the Water Resources Board may also apply, such as restrictions on recreational uses established by the state or a local board of health to protect public water supplies. (8) Despite having less than 30 contiguous acres outside of the shoreline safety zone, high-speed boating is a normal use on this body of water.(9) Despite having a surface area greater than 75 acres and at least 30 contiguous acres outside of the shoreline safety zone (see V.S.A. §3.2(a)), high-speed boating is not a normal use on this body of water and therefore a maximum speed limit of 5 m.p.h. is established for vessels being propelled by motor.


Collected Management Rules for Vermont Lakes, Ponds, and Reservoirs (1)

Lake Abenaki Thetford 44 N 5 mph N Y NAdams Reservoir Woodford 21 N 5 mph N Y NAmherst Lake Plymouth 81 Y N/A N N NArrowhead Mtn. Lake Milton/Georgia 760 E Y N/A Y(6) N Y(6)Athens Pond Athens 21 N 5 mph N Y NAustin Pond Hubbardton 28 E N 5 mph N Y NBaker Pond Barton 51 N 5 mph N Y NBaker Pond Brookfield 35 Y 5 mph N Y NBald Hill Pond Westmore 108 Y N/A N N NBall Mtn. Reservoir Jamaica 76 Y 5 mph N Y NBean Pond Lyndon/Wheelock 24 Y 5 mph N Y NBean Pond Sutton 30 N 5 mph N Y NBeaver Pond Holland 40 E N 5 mph N Y NBeaver Pond Weathersfield 49 N 5 mph N Y NBeebe Pond Hubbardton 111 E Y 5 mph N Y Y(6)Berlin Pond Berlin 293 E N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)Big Pond Woodford 31 Y 5 mph N Y N (Woddford Lake)Billings Marsh Pond West Haven 56 N 5 mph N Y NBlack Pond Hubbardton 20 E N 5 mph N Y NBlack Pond Plymouth 20 N 5 mph N Y NBliss Pond Calais 46 Y 5 mph N Y NBlueberry Lake Warren 48 N 5 mph N Y N (Warren Lake)Lake Bomoseen Castleton/ 2415 E, W, Z Y N/A Y N N HubbardtonBourn Pond Sunderland 48 N 5 mph N Y NBranch Pond Sunderland 34 N 5 mph N Y NBrownington Pond Brownington Derby 139 E Y N/A N N NBruce Pond Sheffield 27 Y 5 mph N Y NBuck Lake Woodbury 39 N 5 mph N Y NBurbee Pond Windham 50 N 5 mph N Y NBurr Pond Pittsford 20 N 5 mph N Y NBurr Pond Sudbury 85 E Y N/A(6) N N Y(6)Lake Carmi Franklin 1402 E Y N/A Y N NCaspian Lake Greensboro 789 Y N/A(6) N N Y(6)Cedar Lake Monkton 123 E Y N/A N N N (Monkton Pond)Center Pond Newark 79 Y N/A N N NChandler Pond Wheelock 68 N 5 mph N Y N Charleston Pond Charleston 40 N 5 mph N Y N (Lubber Lake)Chipman Lake Tinmouth 79 E Y N/A N N N (Tinmouth Pond)Chittenden Reservoir Chittenden 702 Y 5 mph N N Y(6)Clyde Pond Derby 186 E N 5 mph N Y NCobb Pond Derby 27 N 5 mph N Y NCoggman Pond West Haven 20 E,W N 5 mph N Y NCoits Pond Cabot 40 N 5 mph N Y N

Name

Location (town)

Surface Area In Acres

Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS)

Internal Combustion Motors Allowed (3)

Maximum Speed Limit (4) M.P.H.

Personal Watercraft Allowed

Use By Aircraft Prohibited (5)

Other Restrictions Apply

Aquatic Nuisance Species – E = Eurasian Watermilfoil, W = Water Chestnut, Z = Zebra Mussels


Colby Pond Plymouth 20 Y 5 mph N Y NColchester Pond Colchester 186 N N/A(6) N Y Y(6)Cole Pond Jamaica 41 N 5 mph N Y NColes Pond Walden 99 Y N/A N N NColton Pond Sherburne 27 Y 5 mph N Y NCranberry Woodbury 28 N 5 mph N Y N Meadow PondCrescent Lake Sharon 20 N 5 mph N Y NCrystal Lake Barton 763 Y N/A Y N NCurtis Pond Calais 72 Y N/A(6) N Y Y(6)Cutler Pond Highgate 25 N 5 mph N Y NDanby Pond Danby 71 Y 5 mph N Y NDaniels Pond Glover 66 Y 5 mph N Y NDanyow Pond Ferrisburg 192 Y 5 mph N Y NDeer Park Pond Halifax 22 N 5 mph N Y NDennis Pond Brunswick 49 N 5 mph N Y NLake Derby Derby 207 E Y N/A N N NDeweys Mill Pond Hartford 56 N 5 mph N Y NLake Dunmore Salisbury/Leicester 1037 E, Z Y N/A Y N NEast Long Pond Woodbury 188 Y N/A N N NEcho Lake Charleston 550 Y N/A Y N NEcho Lake Hubbardton/Sudbury 54 Y 5 mph(6) N Y N (Keeler Pond)Echo Lake Plymouth 104 Y N/A N N NLake Eden Eden 194 Y N/A N N NElfin Lake Wallingford 16 N 5 mph(6) N N NLake Elligo Craftsbury/ 174 E Y N/A N N N (Elligo Pond) GreensboroLake Elmore Elmore 219 Y N/A Y(6) N Y(6)Emerald Lake Dorset 28 N 5 mph N Y NEwell Pond Peacham 51 Y 5 mph N Y NFairfield Pond Fairfield 446 E Y N/A Y N NFairfield Swamp Pond Swanton/St 152 Y 5 mph N Y N Albans/FairfieldLake Fairlee Thetford/Fairlee/W. 457 E Y N/A N N N Fairlee Fern Lake Leicester 69 Y 5 mph(6) N Y NFlagg Pond Wheelock 111 N 5 mph N Y NForest Lake Averill 62 Y 5 mph N Y NForest Lake Calais/Woodbury 133 Y N/A N N N (Nelson Pond)Fosters Pond Peacham 61 Y 5 mph N Y NGail Meadows Pond Winhall 195 Y 5 mph N N N Londonderry Gates Pond Whitingham 30 N 5 mph N Y NGillett Pond Richmond 30 N 5 mph N Y NGlen Lake Castleton/Benson/ 206 E Y 5 mph(6) N N N Fair HavenGreat Averill Pond Norton 828 Y N/A Y N NGreat Hosmer Pond Craftsbury Albany 149 Y N/A(8) N Y N

Name

Location (town)








Collected Management Rules Cont.

Aquatic Nuisance Species – E = Eurasian Watermilfoil, W = Water Chestnut, Z = Zebra MusselsCopyright © 2010 Boat Ed, www.boat-ed.com

Green River Reservoir Hyde Park/Eden 653 N 5 mph N Y NGreenwood Lake Woodbury 96 Y N/A(8) N N Y(6)Lake Groton Groton 422 Y N/A Y N N (Groton Pond)Grout Pond Stratton 84 N 5 mph N Y NHalf Moon Pond Hubbardton 23 N 5 mph N Y NHalf Moon Pond Fletcher 21 Y 5 mph N Y NHalfway Pond Norton 22 N 5 mph N Y NHalls Lake Newbury 85 E Y N/A N N Y(6)Lake Hancock Stamford 51 N 5 mph N Y N (Sucker Pond)Hardwick Lake Hardwick 92 N 5 mph N Y NHardwood Pond Elmore 44 N 5 mph N Y NHarriman Pond Newbury 20 N 5 mph N Y NHarriman Reservoir Whitingham 2046 Y N/A Y N NHarvey’s Lake Barnet 351 Y N/A Y N NHaystack Pond (7) Wilmington 27 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)High Pond Sudbury 20 N 5 mph(7) N Y NHinkum Pond Sudbury 60 N 5 mph N Y NHolland Pond Holland 325 Y N/A Y N NHorse Pond Greensboro 32 Y 5 mph N Y NHortonia, Lake Hubbardton 479 E, Z Y N/A Y N N (Horton Pond) SudburyHowe Pond (7) Readsboro 52 N 5 mph N Y Y(7)Huff (Hough) Pond Sudbury 16 N 5 mph N Y NIndian Brook Reservoir Essex 50 E N 5 mph N Y YInman Pond(7) Fair Haven 85 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)Lake Iroquois Hinesburg 243 E Y N/A N N N WillistonIsland Pond Brighton 626 Y N/A Y N NJacksonville Pond Whitingham 20 N 5 mph N Y NJobs Pond Westmore 39 Y 5 mph N Y NJoes Pond Cabot/Danville 396 Y N/A Y N NKeiser Pond Peacham/Danville 33 Y 5 mph N Y NKenny Pond Newfane 26 N 5 mph N Y NKent Pond Killington 99 E Y 5 mph N N NKettle Pond Groton/Peacham/ 109 Y 5 mph N N N MarshfieldKnapp Brook Pond #1 Reading Cavendish 25 Y 5 mph N Y NKnapp Brook Pond #2 Reading Cavendish 35 Y 5 mph N Y NLakota Lake Barnard 20 N 5 mph N Y NLake Lamoille Morristown 148 Y N/A N N NLamson Pond Brookfield 24 N 5 mph N Y NLefferts Pond Chittenden 80 N 5 mph N Y NLevi Pond Groton 22 N 5 mph N Y NLewis Pond Lewis 68 Y 5 mph N Y NLily Pond Londonderry 21 N 5 mph N Y NLily Pond Poultney 21 E Y 5 mph Y(6) Y Y(6)Lily Pond Vernon 41 N 5 mph N Y NLittle Pond Franklin 95 E N 5 mph N Y NLittle Lake Wells 177 Y N/A Y(6) N Y(6)

Name

Location (town)










Little Averill Pond Averill 467 Y N/A Y N NLittle Elmore Pond Elmore 24 N 5 mph N Y NLittle Hosmer Pond Craftsbury 180 Y 5 mph N N Y(6)Long Pond Eden 97 E N 5 mph N Y N (Belvidere Pond)Long Pond Greensboro 100 N 5 mph N Y NLong Pond Milton 47 N 5 mph N Y NLong Pond Sheffield 38 N 5 mph N Y NLong Pond Westmore 90 Y 5 mph(9) N N NLove’s Marsh Castleton 62 E N 5 mph N Y NLowell Lake Londonderry 109 N 5 mph N Y NLower Pond Hinesburg 58 E Y 5 mph N Y N (Lake Sunset)Lower Symes Pond Ryegate 57 Y 5 mph N Y NLyford Pond Walden 33 Y 5 mph N Y NLake Madeleine Sandgate 20 Y 5 mph N Y NMaidstone Lake Maidstone 745 Y N/A Y N NLake Mansfield Stowe 35 N 5 mph N Y NMarshfield Pond Marshfield 69 Y 5 mph N Y NMartin Pond Williamstown 28 N 5 mph N Y NMartins Pond Peacham 82 Y N/A N N NMay Pond Barton 85 N 5 mph N Y NMcAllister Pond Lowell 25 N 5 mph N Y NMcConnell Pond Brighton 87 N 5 mph N Y NMcIntosh Pond Royalton 23 Y 5 mph N Y NMetcalf Pond Fletcher 81 E Y N/A(8) N Y NMile Pond Ferdinand 26 N 5 mph N Y NMiles Pond Concord 205 Y N/A N N NMill Pond Benson 39 N 5 mph N Y N (Parson’s Mill Pond)Mill Pond Windsor 77 E N 5 mph N Y N (Kennedy’s Pond)Miller Pond Strafford 64 Y 5 mph N Y NMilton Pond Milton 24 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)Minards Pond Rockingham 46 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)Mirror Lake Calais 85 Y 10/5 N N Y(6) (No. 10 Pond) mph(6)Lake Mitchell Sharon 28 N 5 mph N Y NMolly’s Pond Cabot 38 N 5 mph N Y NMolly’s Falls Reservoir Cabot 397 Y N/A Y N NLake Morey Fairlee 547 E Y N/A N N NMud Pond Craftsbury 35 N 5 mph N Y NMud Pond Granby 55 N 5 mph N Y NMud Pond Leicester 23 N 5 mph N Y NMud Pond (North) Morgan 35 N 5 mph N Y NMud Pond Peacham 34 N 5 mph N Y NMud Pond Thetford 20 N 5 mph N Y N (Forscythe Pond)Mud Creek Pond Alburg 333 N 5 mph N Y NMudd Pond Hubbardton 20 N 5 mph N Y N

Name

Location (town)









Aquatic Nuisance Species – E = Eurasian Watermilfoil, W = Water Chestnut, Z = Zebra MusselsCopyright © 2010 Boat Ed, www.boat-ed.com

N.E. Developers Pond Wells 27 Y 5 mph N Y NNeal Pond Lunenburg 185 Y N/A N N NNewark Pond Newark 153 Y N/A N N NNichols Pond Woodbury 171 Y 5 mph(9) N N NLake Ninevah Mt. Holly 171 Y 5 mph N Y(6) NNorford Lake Thetford 21 N 5 mph N Y NNorth Pond Brookfield 24 N 5 mph N Y NNorth Pond Whitingham 20 N 5 mph N Y NNorth Brook Reservoir Vergennes E North Hartland Hartland/Hartford 108 Y N/A(8) N Y N ReservoirNorth Montpelier Pond East Montpelier Calais 42 E Y 5 mph N Y NNorth Springfield Springfield 290 Y 5 mph N N Y WeathersfieldNorton Pond Norton 667 Y N/A N Y N Warrens GroveNotch Pond Ferdinand 22 Y 5 mph N Y NNoyes Pond Groton 39 N 5 mph N Y N (Seyon Pond)Nulhegan Pond Brighton 37 N 5 mph N Y NOld Marsh Pond Fair Haven 131 N 5 mph N Y NOsmore Pond Peacham 48 N 5 mph N Y NOxbow Pond Swanton 27 N 5 mph N Y NLake Paran Bennington 40 E,W N N/A(6) N Y N ShaftsburyLake Parker Glover 250 Y N/A N N N (Parker Pond)Parson’s Mill Pond Benson E,WPatch Pond Rutland 20 N 5 mph N Y NPaul Stream Pond Brunswick 20 N 5 mph N Y NPeacham Pond Peacham 340 Y N/A Y N NPelkey’s Swamp Benson WPensioner Pond Charleston 173 Y N/A N N NPerch Pond Benson 24 N 5 mph N Y NPigeon Pond Groton 69 Y 5 mph N Y NPine Pond Castleton 40 N 5 mph N Y NLake Pinneo Hartford 50 N 5 mph N Y NPleasant Valley Brattleboro 25 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7) Reservoir (7)Lake Raponda Wilmington 121 Y N/A N N NReading Pond Reading 22 N 5 mph N Y N PlymouthRescue Lake Ludlow 229 E Y N/A N N NReservoir Pond Ludlow 32 Y 5 mph N Y N (Lake Pauline)Richmond Pond Richmond 24 N 5 mph N Y NRichville Pond Shoreham 129 E Y 5 mph N Y NRicker Pond Groton 95 Y N/A N N NRoach Pond Hubbardton 20 N 5 mph N Y NRood Pond Williamstown 23 Y 5 mph N Y N Brookfield

Name

Location (town)










Round Pond Milton 22 N 5 mph N Y NRound Pond Newbury 30 E N 5 mph N Y NLake Runnemede Windsor 62 N 5 mph N Y N (Evart’s Pond)Sabin Pond Calais/Woodbury 142 Y N/A N N N (Woodbury Lake)Sadawga Pond Whitingham 194 Y N/A N N NLake Salem Derby 764 Y N/A Y N N (Salem Pond)Schofield Pond Hyde Park 29 N 5 mph N N NSearsburg Reservoir Searsburg 25 N 5 mph N Y NSeymour Lake Morgan 1763 Y N/A Y N N CharlestonShadow Lake Concord 128 Y N/A N N NShadow Lake Glover 210 Y N/A N N NShaftsbury Lake Shaftsbury 27 N 5 mph N Y NShelburne Pond Shelburne 452 E Y N/A Y N NSherman Reservoir Readsboro 117 Y N/A N N N WhitinghamShippee Pond Whitingham 24 N 5 mph N Y NSilver Lake Barnard 84 Y N/A N N Y(6)Silver Lake Georgia 27 N 5 mph N Y N(6) Fairfax(7)Silver Lake Leicester 101 N 5 mph N Y NSodom Pond East Montpelier 21 N 5 mph N Y N CalaisSomerset Reservoir Somerset 1568 Y 10 mph(6) N N Y(6) StrattonSouth Pond Eden 103 Y N/A N N NSouth Pond Marlboro 68 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)South America Pond Ferdinand 29 N 5 mph N Y NSouth Stream Pond Pownal 54 Y 5 mph N Y NSpectacle Pond Brighton 103 Y N/A N N NSpring Lake Shrewsbury 66 N 5 mph N Y Y(6) (ShrewsburyPond)Spruce Pond Orwell 25 N 5 mph N Y NSt. Albans Reservoir Fairfax 35 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7) (North)(7)St. Albans Reservoir Fairfax 27 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7) (South)(7)Lake St. Catherine Wells/Poultney 883 E Y N/A Y N Y(6)Stannard Pond Stannard 25 N 5 mph N Y NStar Lake Mt. Holly 63 E Y 5 mph N Y NStevens Pond Maidstone 26 N 5 mph N Y NStiles Pond(7) Waterford 135 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)Stoughton Pond Weathersfield 56 Y 5 mph N Y Y(6)Stratton Pond Stratton 46 N N/A(6) N Y Y(6)Sugar Hill Reservoir Goshen 63 Y 5 mph N Y NSugar Hollow Pond Brandon/Pittsford 21 N 5 mph N Y NSunrise Lake Benson/Orwell 57 E Y 5 mph N Y NSunset Lake Benson/Orwell 202 E Y N/A N N Y(6)

Name

Location (town)










Aquatic Nuisance Species – E = Eurasian Watermilfoil, W = Water Chestnut, Z = Zebra Mussels

Sunset Lake Brookfield 25 N 5 mph N Y NSunset Lake(7) Marlboro 96 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7)Sweet Pond Guilford 20 N 5 mph N Y NThompsons Pond Pownal 28 N 5 mph N Y NThurman W. Dix Orange 123 N 5 mph(7) N Y Y(7) Reservoir(7)Tickle-naked Pond Ryegate 54 Y 5 mph N Y NTildy’s Pond Glover 33 Y 5 mph N Y N (Clark Pond)Tiny Pond Ludlow/Mt. Holly 29 Y 5 mph N Y NToad Pond Charleston 22 N 5 mph N Y NTownsend Reservoir Townsend 108 Y 5 mph N Y NTurtle Pond Hardwick 21 N 5 mph N Y NTurtle Pond Holland 27 N 5 mph N Y NUpper Symes Pond Ryegate 20 N 5 mph N Y NValley Lake Woodbury 88 Y N/A(8) N Y Y(6) (Dog Pond)Wallingford Pond Wallingford 87 N 5 mph N Y NWantastiquet Pond Weston 44 N 5 mph N Y NWapanacki Lake Wolcott 22 N 5 mph N Y NWarden Pond Barnet 46 Y 5 mph N Y NWaterbury Reservoir Waterbury/Stowe 839 Y N/A Y N Y(6)Weatherhead Guilford 33 Y 5 mph N Y N Hollow Pond West Hill Pond Cabot 46 N 5 mph N Y NWest Mountain Pond Maidstone 60 N 5 mph N Y NWheeler Pond Brunswick 66 Y 5 mph N Y NLake Wiloughby Westmore 1712 E Y N/A N N NWinona Lake Bristol 248 E Y N/A N N N (Bristol Lake)Wolcott Pond Wolcott 74 Y 5 mph N Y NWoodward Reservoir Plymouth 106 Y 5 mph N N NWorcester Pond Worcester 35 N 5 mph N Y NWrightsville Reservoir Middlesex/ E. 150 Y N/A(6) Y N Y(6) Montpelier/ MontpelierZack Woods Pond Hyde Park Wolcott 23 N 5 mph N Y NLake Champlain Several 172,800 E, W, Z Y N/A Y N N (VT)Lake Memphremagog Newport 5,966 E Y N/A Y N N Derby/Coventry (VT)Wallace Pond Canaan 107 Y N/A Y N N (VT)Connecticut River Several N/A Y N/A Y N N ReservoirsBatten Kill Arlington N/A N N/A N/A N/A Y(6)

Name

Location (town)










52

Lake-Specific Rules Regulating the Use of Particular Public Waters

10 V.S.A. §1424

Adams Reservoir, Town of WoodfordInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1987 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by an internal combustion motor ◆is prohibited.

Arrowhead Mountain Lake, Towns of Milton and GeorgiaAdopted Effective January 2, 1996

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour within the northeastern arm of the lake.Personal watercraft are prohibited from operating within the north- ◆eastern arm of the lake, except for a corridor within 200 feet of the shoreline between the public fishing access and the main body of the lake.

Batten Kill, Town of ArlingtonAdopted Effective February 22, 1999

The following rule pertains to that section of the Batten Kill in the ◆Town of Arlington between the Water Street Bridge on Vermont Route 313 and continuing downstream to the Vermont/New York border. For purposes of these rules, this section of the river shall be known as the “regulated section.”The use of all motors, including electric motors to power vessels, in ◆the regulated section is prohibited.

Beebe Pond, Town of HubbardtonInitial Rules Adopted Effective October 2, 1973 Amended Effective January 1, 1985

Water-skiing is prohibited. ◆Vessels powered by motors exceeding 10 horsepower are ◆prohibited.A person operating a vessel powered by motor shall not exceed a ◆speed limit of five miles per hour.

Black Pond, Town of HubbardtonInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1986 Amended Effective January 1, 1995



53

Burr Pond, Town of SudburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective September 28, 1972 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

No vessel powered by motor shall be operated anywhere on Burr ◆Pond in excess of five miles per hour between the hours of 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. local time.Any motorboat launched at the public Fish and Game access is to ◆be utilized solely for the purpose of fishing on Burr Pond and shall be limited to a speed of five miles per hour regardless of when or where operated on Burr Pond.

Caspian Lake, Town of GreensboroInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 1, 1992 Amended Effective November 30, 2002

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of 40 miles per ◆hour between one half hour before sunrise and one half hour after sunset.Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of 10 miles per ◆hour between one half hour after sunset and one half hour before sunrise.The use of personal watercraft (jet skis) is prohibited. ◆

Ski slalom courses must comply with the following. ◆Construction•

Length of the course measured on the surface of the water shall -be no more than 600 feet.There shall be no more than 16 buoys providing for no more -than four slalom turns.The buoys may be attached to an underlying framework -located at least five feet below the surface of the lake.

Location•There may be no more than one course on the lake at any one -time.The location each year must be at least 1,000 feet from the -prior year’s location measured from the closest buoy of each such location.The course must run as nearly parallel as possible to the nearest -shore.All buoys must be at least 800 feet from shore. -

Use•Sanctioned or public competition or exhibitions are prohibited. -Use by personal watercraft or any vessel powered by motor -other than a motorboat towing a water-skier is prohibited.Boats shall turn away from the nearest shore upon entrance to -and exit from the course.


54

Chittenden Reservoir, Town of ChittendenAdopted Effective November 30, 2002

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour.The use of personal watercraft (jet skis) is prohibited. ◆Water-skiing is prohibited. ◆

Colchester Pond, Town of ColchesterInitial Rules Adopted Effective March 8, 1993 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by motor is prohibited. ◆Except in an emergency situation or as authorized by the Vermont ◆Transportation Board in accordance with 5 V.S.A. Chapter 9, aircraft are prohibited from landing or taking off.

Cole Pond, Town of JamaicaInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 1, 1992 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by an internal combustion motor ◆is prohibited effective January 1, 1993.Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour.

Curtis Pond, Town of CalaisAdopted February 14, 1995

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour north of the narrows.

Echo Lake (Keeler Pond), Towns of Sudbury and HubbardtonInitial Rules Adopted Effective November 29, 1982 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by motor at speeds exceeding five ◆miles per hour or in such a manner as to cause a disturbing wake is prohibited.

Elfin Lake, Town of WallingfordInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1988 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Lake Elmore, Town of ElmoreAdopted Effective February 28, 1997

The provisions of Section 3.3(a)(1) not withstanding, the use of ◆personnel watercraft is allowed between 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m.


55

Emerald Lake, Town of DorsetInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1987 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Lake Fairlee, Towns of Fairlee, West Fairlee, and ThetfordAdopted Effective February 22, 1999

The use of personal watercraft (jet skis) is prohibited. ◆

Fern Lake, Town of LeicesterInitial Rules Adopted Effective November 17, 1980 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by motor at speeds exceeding five ◆miles per hour or in such a manner as to cause a disturbing wake is prohibited.Except in an emergency situation or as authorized by the Vermont ◆Transportation Board in accordance with 5 V.S.A. Chapter 9, aircraft are prohibited from landing or taking off.

Gale Meadows Pond, Towns of Winhall and LondonderryInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 1, 1992 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour.

Glen Lake, Towns of Castleton, Fair Haven, and BensonInitial Rules Adopted Effective April 1, 1978 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Greenwood Lake, Town of WoodburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 1, 1992 Amended Effective January 1, 1995 Amended Effective February 28, 1997

Unless otherwise prohibited by law, vessels powered by motor shall ◆travel in a counterclockwise direction when towing water-skier(s).Unless otherwise prohibited by law, water-skiing shall be limited ◆to the following days and times: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday from noon until 7:00 p.m.

Grout Pond, Town of StrattonInitial Rules Adopted Effective August 15, 1974 Amended Effective January 1, 1995



56

Half Moon Pond, Town of HubbardtonInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1987 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Halls Lake, Town of NewburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 1, 1992 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Water-skiing is restricted to the hours from 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. ◆

Huff (Hough) Pond, Town of SudburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective August 7, 1984 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Indian Brook Reservoir, Town of EssexInitial Rules Adopted Effective April 20, 1989 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by an internal combustion motor ◆is prohibited.Except in an emergency situation or as authorized by the Vermont ◆Transportation Board in accordance with 5 V.S.A. Chapter 9, aircraft are prohibited from landing or taking off from Indian Brook Reservoir.

Lake Lamoille, Town of MorristownVessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour outside the northeastern arm of the lake.

Lewis Pond, Town of LewisInitial Rules Adopted Effective March 8, 1993 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

No person shall operate a vessel powered by motor at any time at a ◆speed in excess of five miles per hour.

Lily Pond, Town of PoultneySee Lake St. Catherine rules.Little Lake, Town of WellsSee Lake St. Catherine rules.Little Hosmer Pond, Town of CraftsburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective October 2, 1973 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Vessels powered by motors exceeding 10 horsepower are prohibited ◆on Little Hosmer Pond.No person shall operate a vessel powered by motor at any time at a ◆speed in excess of five miles per hour on Little Hosmer Pond.


57

Long Pond, Town of GreensboroInitial Rules Adopted Effective September 16, 1975 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Lowell Lake, Town of LondonderryInitial Rules Adopted Effective April 13, 1988 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


May Pond, Town of BartonInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1988 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Mill Pond, Town of WindsorInitial Rules Adopted Effective March 9, 1989 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels and vehicles powered by an internal ◆combustion motor, except snowmobiles on a designated trail, is prohibited.

Mirror Lake, Town of CalaisInitial Rules Adopted Effective December 17, 1978 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour within the two bay areas south of Hall Point.For the remainder of the lake, vessels powered by motor shall not ◆exceed a speed of 10 miles per hour.

Lake Morey, Town of FairleeInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 1, 1992 Amended Effective January 1, 1995 Amended Effective February 22, 1999

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of 40 miles per ◆hour.The use of personal watercraft (jet skis) is prohibited. ◆

Lake Ninevah, Town of Mt. HollyInitial Rules Adopted Effective April 20, 1989 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour.Except in an emergency situation or as authorized by the Vermont ◆Transportation Board in accordance with 5 V.S.A. Chapter 9, aircraft are prohibited from landing or taking off from Lake Ninevah.


58

North Springfield, Towns of Weathersfield and SpringfieldInitial Rules Adopted Effective May 25, 1972 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour on North Springfeld.

Norton Pond, Town of NortonAdopted Effective November 30, 2002

The use of personal watercraft (jet skis) is prohibited. ◆

Lake Paran, Towns of Bennington and ShaftsburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective July 14,1980 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by motor is prohibited. ◆

Perch Pond, Town of BensonInitial Rules Adopted Effective October 18, 1974 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Shaftsbury Lake, Town of ShaftsburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1987 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Silver Lake, Town of BarnardInitial Rules Adopted Effective May 19, 1972 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Between the hours of 10:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. local time, a ◆maximum of four persons at one time may operate motorboats for purposes of the water-skiing on Silver Lake, provided that:

The use of the lake for water-skiing shall not be conducted to the •exclusion of other normal uses and …Each person operating a motorboat engaged in water-skiing shall •proceed only in a counterclockwise direction.

Somerset Reservoir, Towns of Somerset and StrattonInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 4, 1995 Amended Effective January 2, 1996

The use of personal watercraft (jet skis) is prohibited. ◆Water-skiing is prohibited. ◆The operation of vessels powered by an internal combustion ◆motors at speeds in excess of 10 miles per hour is prohibited except as provided for in the rule below.The prohibition established by the rule above shall not apply to ◆vessels operated on behalf of New England Power Company in conjunction with their operation of the reservoir.


59

Spring Lake, Town of ShrewsburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective May 31, 1974 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by an internal combustion motor ◆is prohibited.Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour.Except in an emergency situation or as authorized by the Vermont ◆Transportation Board in accordance with 5 V.S.A. Chapter 9, aircraft are prohibited from landing or taking off.

Lake St. Catherine, Towns of Wells and Poultney Initial Rules Adopted Effective November 17, 1980 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Water-skiing is prohibited in the following waters: ◆All portions of Lily Pond and the channel connecting Lily Pond •and Lake St. CatherineAll portions of the channel connecting Little Lake (also known as •Little Pond) and Lake St. Catherine

The operation of vessels powered by motor at speeds exceeding five ◆miles per hour or in such a manner as to cause a disturbing wake is prohibited in the following waters:

All portions of Lily Pond and the channel connecting Lily Pond •and Lake St. CatherineAll portions of the channel connecting Little Lake (also known as •Little Pond) and Lake St. CatherineForest House Bay - defined for purposes of this rule as those waters •south and southwest of a straight line between the southerly corner of Camp 102 and the northeasterly corner of Camp 110AHall’s Bay - defined for purposes of this rule as those waters north •and northeast of a straight line between the southerly corner of Camp 224 and the northerly corner of Camp 207Horseshoe Bay - defined for purposes of this rule as those waters •west of a straight line between the easterly corner of Camp 38 and northerly corner of Camp 46AOxbow Bay - defined for purposes of this rule as those waters west •of a straight line between the northerly corner of Camp 21 and the northerly corner of Camp 36

With regard to Forest House Bay, Hall’s Bay, Horseshoe Bay, and ◆Oxbow Bay, it is permissible for a boat to start and return to its own dock at speeds in excess of five miles per hour for purposes of water-skiing. In starting, the boat must head directly out of the safety zone. In returning, the boat must go directly to its dock at the lowest speed necessary to sustain the skier.For purposes of this regulation only, the term “channel” as used ◆in the rules above shall mean those waters within and contiguous to Lake St. Catherine which are less than 400 feet in width and


60

which serve to connect that lake with Lily Pond or Little Lake (also known as Little Pond).The provisions of Section 3.3(a)(1) not withstanding, the use of ◆personal watercraft at speeds not exceeding five miles per hour is allowed on Little Lake and Lily Pond for purposes of obtaining access to, and returning from, Lake St. Catherine.

Stoughton Pond, Town of WeathersfieldInitial Rules Adopted Effective May 25, 1972 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour on Stoughton Pond.

Stratton Pond, Town of StrattonInitial Rules Adopted Effective October 7, 1974 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

The operation of vessels powered by motor is prohibited. ◆No docks or floats, whether permanent or temporary, are ◆permitted on the pond.

Sunrise Lake, Towns of Benson and OrwellInitial Rules Adopted Effective February 1, 1992 Amended Effective January 1, 1995


Sunset Lake, Towns of Benson and OrwellInitial Rules Adopted Effective October 18, 1974 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Water-skiing on Sunset Lake is restricted to the hours from 10:00 ◆a.m. to 6:00 p.m.No more than one water-skier shall be pulled by a vessel at any time. ◆

Valley Lake, Town of WoodburyInitial Rules Adopted Effective October 2, 1973 Amended Effective January 1, 1995

Water-skiing on Valley Lake is restricted to the hours from 10:00 ◆a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Waterbury Reservoir, Towns of Waterbury and StoweInitial Rules Adopted Effective June 2, 1989 Amended Effective January 1, 1995 Amended Effective February 28, 1997

Except as provided for below, vessels powered by motor shall not ◆exceed a speed of five miles per hour or create a disturbing wake in the following portions of Waterbury Reservoir:

That portion of the eastern arm of the Waterbury Reservoir •easterly of a line 200 feet west of the end of the peninsula sepa-rating the two bays


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That portion of the northern arm of the Waterbury Reservoir •northerly of the point of land on the western shoreline located approximately 5,500 feet southerly of the mouth of Cotton Brook

The five miles per hour no disturbing wake zones provided for ◆above shall be clearly marked by buoys.The speed limit and wake provisions shall not apply to either: ◆

Participants in events authorized under 23 V.S.A. • §3316(a), for a maximum of five events per calendar year for a maximum of two days for each such event or …A single vessel using water-ski slalom course number #1 (as iden-•tified below).

Unless otherwise regulated by law, only two water-ski slalom ◆courses may be located in the Reservoir, as follows:

One slalom course marked as course #1, located southerly of the •mouth of Cotton Brook within that portion of the northern arm of the Reservoir described aboveOne slalom course located at either of the following locations •by the person(s) or organization designated by the Board as provided for below:

South of the Little River State Park in the southern arm of -Waterbury Reservoir, marked as Course #2 or …West of the Blush Hill boat access in the eastern arm of the -Waterbury Reservoir, marked as Alternate Course #2.

The water-ski slalom courses shall be installed, maintained, and ◆utilized in accordance with the following requirements.

Each course shall be installed following recognized National •Design Standards, shall consist of not more than 26 buoys and include underwater alignment and anchoring devices, and shall be configured to occupy not more than 2.0 acres of the Reservoir’s surface area. Each course shall be available for use by any member of the •general public.Each course shall be installed and maintained by a person(s) •or organization designated by the Board who shall file with the Commissioner of the Department of Forests, Parks, and Recreation (Commissioner) by April 1 of each year a certificate of insurance, including proof of liability insurance protecting the State of Vermont to a degree equal to or greater than that provided to the Commissioner by the American Water Ski Association and Green Mountain Water Skiers in May 1996. Except as may be provided for above, water-ski slalom course #1 •shall be subject to the following requirements.

Only one vessel at a time shall be allowed to use the course. -


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The course shall be lowered to the bottom of the Reservoir -each time that the course is not in active use. While on the water surface, the course shall not be left unattended.

The granting of approval by the Board does not relieve the •designee from responsibility to comply with any other applicable requirements of federal, state, or local law. The Board may revoke any designation for failure to comply •with the above requirements.

Woodward Reservoir, Town of PlymouthInitial Rules Adopted Effective September 28, 1972 Amended Effective February 14, 1995

Vessels powered by motor shall not exceed a speed of five miles per ◆hour anywhere on Woodward Reservoir.

Wrightsville Reservoir, Towns of East Montpelier and Middlesex and City of MontpelierInitial Rules Adopted Effective January 1, 1985 Amended Effective January 2, 1996

The operation of vessels powered by motor at speeds exceeding two ◆miles per hour or in such a manner as to cause a disturbing wake is prohibited northerly of the narrows that is immediately to the north of the roadside park boat launch ramp.The provisions of Section 3.3(a)(1) not withstanding, the use of ◆personal watercraft is allowed southerly of the narrows referred to above.


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Stop the Spread of Nuisance Species

An increasing number of non-native aquatic plants and animals are invading Vermont waters (see next page). When moved into new waters, these species rapidly multiply, causing significant economic and ecological damage. Do your part to help prevent the spread of nuisance species.

Inspect your vessel, trailer, and equipment (motor, anchors, ◆

centerboards, rollers, axles, etc.); and remove any plants and animals you see before leaving the area.Discard unused bait in the trash, or leave it with someone ◆

fishing in the same body of water.Drain water from the motor, live well, bilge, and transom ◆

wells while on land and before leaving the area.Rinse your vessel, propeller, trailer, and equipment with ◆

tap water (preferably hot) or at a car wash.Dry vessel and equipment in the sun for at least 5 days. ◆

Learn how to identify aquatic nuisance species. ◆

Report sightings of aquatic nuisance species to: ◆

Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation Water Quality Division 802-241-3777 www.vtwaterquality.org

Notice:The transport of zebra mussel, Eurasian watermilfoil, water chestnut, •or quagga mussel to or from any Vermont surface water is illegal in Vermont (under Vermont Statutes Annotated, Title 10, Chapter 47, §1266 regarding zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, water chestnut, and quagga mussel).Effective May 1999, the Vermont legislature decriminalized certain •violations of surface water rules adopted pursuant to 10 V.S.A. §1424, as well as violations of the transportation of aquatic nuisance species laws pursuant to 10 V.S.A. §1266. These are now civil viola-tions, punishable by fines established by the Court Administrator’s Office.The Court Administrator’s Office established the fine at $150.00 plus •surcharge.


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Types of Aquatic Nuisance Species!

Introducing non-native species into Vermont waters can upset the balance of the ecosystem, harming the environment. Below are some common nuisance species.

Eurasian Watermilfoil A prolific aquatic plant found in Lake Champlain and many inland lakes in Vermont. It interferes with boating and displaces native plants. It is spread easily when plant fragments are caught and moved via boat trailers, propellers, anchors, or wet wells. Plant fragments can initiate new plants and become well established.

Zebra Mussel A tiny D-shaped mollusk, well established in Lake Champlain. It can clog water intake pipes, damage vessel engines, obscure historic shipwrecks, and alter native species populations. Adult zebra mussels can attach to and be moved on vessel hulls, engines, and other equipment. Microscopic larvae can get trapped and moved in water of vessel engines, bilges, bait buckets, and live wells.

Water Chestnut A prolific annual plant found in southern Lake Champlain, Lake Bomoseen, and a few inland lakes. It interferes with boating, hunting, and fishing and displaces native plants. It is spread by seeds or rosettes caught in vessels and equipment.

Alewife A small bait fish recently found in Lake St. Catherine. The alewife may displace smelt and other native forage fish. It can be introduced to new bodies of water if accidentally or intentionally caught and used for bait or if dumped from bait buckets or live wells.


Vermont Required Equipment Checklist

Boating Safety Education Certificate

Certificate of Registration On Board

Validation Stickers Displayed

PFDs: Type I, II, III, or V

PFD: Type IV

Type B-I Fire Extinguisher

Ignition Safety Switch

Backfire Flame Arrestor

Ventilation System

Muffler

Horn, Whistle, or Bell

Daytime Visual Distress Signals

Nighttime Visual Distress Signals

Navigation Lights

✓1 ✓1 ✓1

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓2 ✓2 ✓2

✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓

✓ ✓3 ✓3

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓ ✓ ✓

✓4

5 ✓4 ✓4

5 ✓ ✓

1. Applicable if operator is born after January 1, 1974. See page 24 for more information.

2. Those on a PWC must wear a personal flotation device (life jacket) at all times. Those under the age of 12 must wear a PFD while underway on an open deck. See page 26 for more information.

3. Required on all powerboats (except outboards).4. Required when boating on federally controlled waters.5. Certain items are not applicable to PWCs because they are not

allowed to operate between sunset and sunrise.

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white boat >

PWC Boat Less Boat 16 Ft. Than 16 Ft. To Less Than 26 Ft.


Headquarters: 103 South Main Street Waterbury, VT 05671 802-244-8727

Vermont State Police

Bradford1594 Waits River RoadBradford, VT 05033802-222-4680

Brattleboro464 Marlboro RoadBrattleboro, VT 05301802-254-2382

Derby35 Crawford Rd.P.O. Box 410Derby, VT 05829802-334-8881

Middlesex1080 US Route 2Middlesex, VT 05602802-229-9191

New HavenP.O.Box 83New Haven, VT 05472802-388-4919

Rockingham1987 Rockingham Rd.Chester, VT 05143802-875-2112

Royalton 2011 VT Route 107Bethel, VT 05032802-234-9933

Rutland124 State PlaceRutland, VT 05701802-773-9101

St. AlbansP.O. Box 809St. Albans, VT 05478802-524-5993

St. Johnsbury1068 U.S. Route 5, Suite #1St. Johnsbury, VT 05819802-748-3111

ShaftsburyP.O. Box 215Shaftsbury, VT 05262802-442-5421

Williston2777 St. George RoadWilliston, VT 05495802-878-7111

Vermont State Police marine DiViSion2777 St. George Road Williston, VT 05495

Sgt. J. R. UnderhillBoating Law Administrator

Cpl. K. F. MaysEducation Coordinator

Website: www.dps.state.vt.us/vtsp/boat

regional officeS

get your free Safety inSPection from the Vermont State PoliceUpon successful completion of a safety inspection, the boat owner is awarded a safety inspection decal that signifies compliance with Vermont’s boating equipment requirements. Affix this decal on the port (left) front half of the vessel.

2008MARINE

INSPECTION

2011


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