Massachusetts Safety Equipment Checklist for Recreational Boats
Massachusetts Required Safety Equipment - Checklist
IMPORTANT TO NOTE:
- Massachusetts law still requires all vessels over 26 feet LOA to have a bell, in addition to a whistle or horn.
- Massachusetts requires a means of manual water discharge (bailer or pump)
- Massachusetts requires a boarding ladder, steps or platform if participating in any water sports (towing, skiing, tubing)
- Massachusetts requires an anchor, Chain & line
- Massachusetts requires boats less than 16 feet LOA to carry and oar or paddle
For full information on Massachusetts Boating Laws and Regulations go to the online MA Boating Handbook
FEDERAL RECREATIONAL BOATING GUIDELINES
Recreational vessels operating in Massachusetts waters must meet Federal regulations for recreational boats AS WELL AS Massachusetts specific requirements.
Below is a link to the Federal requirements:
A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements
Key Items for Federal requirements in addition to Massachusetts list above:
Boats over 26 - 40 feet LOA:
- MARPOL Garbage Placard
- Oil Pollution Placard
Boats over 40 feet LOA:
- MARPOL Garbage Placard
- Oil Pollution Placard
- Navigation Rules (Inland only)
- Vessels with a galley and berthing must have a written Waste Management Plan