Arizona residents are often the most active kayakers around the globe. But are they aware of the Arizona kayaking laws that might get them in trouble? If not, here’s a complete guide on laws you must follow before onboarding.
Why is Boating Safety Important?
Operating a boat might ensure adventure but not necessarily safety. A boating education course is vital to prevent fatal boating accidents, collisions, and drowning. Here are some tips to ensure you stay safe while operating a kayak or canoe:
Ensure you know how to swim.
Check the weather before stepping in.
Avoid kayaking at night.
Check carbon monoxide in the boat.
Must wear life jackets.
Have extra motor accessories for emergency.
Arizona Kayaking Laws
In the State of Arizona (AZ), all Arizona waterways are governed by Title 5, Chapter 3 of the Arizona Revised Statues, Title 46, Chapter 131 of the United States Code, and Title 33 of the Code of Federal Regulations. However, watercraft safety in Lake Havasu City is governed by the Lake Havasu City Code of Ordinances.
Arizona Boat Registration Requirements
Arizona doesn’t require registration for self-propelled vessels. Non-motorized vessels are exempt from Arizona boating registration requirements.
For motorized watercraft, the registration is required. The vessel must have an Arizona Certificate of Registration Number to be placed in front of the hull.
How To Register For Kayak Certification
To register your motorized kayak or canoe, visit the Arizona watercraft registration page of the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
For further details, check out Arizona boat registration laws in the Arizona Revised Statutes.
Arizona Kayaking Education Laws
According to Arizona laws, it’s illegal for anyone under 12 to operate a vessel with a motor greater than 8 horsepower unless:
An emergency has occurred.
The individual’s parent or legal guardian is on the boat.
An adult is present on the boat.
Kayaking Alcohol & Drug Laws
It’s illegal to operate vessels in Arizona with a blood alcohol level (BAL) of 0.08 % or above. The safety laws mention severe penalties in Operating Under the Influence (OUI) law for individuals under the influence of alcohol up to:
0.08% to 0.15% – 10 days in jail with $1250 fine
0.15% to 0.20% – 30 days in jail with a $2500 fine
0.20% and greater – 45 days in jail with a $2750 fine
Kayaking PFD Laws
Every watercraft (including kayaks, SUP paddle boards, PWC, and canoes) are considered recreational and must have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable floatation device on board for each person.
A child 12 years of age or younger must wear a PFD (Personal Floatation Device) at all times on the water. Self-propelled watercraft do not require a throwable floatation device on board.
Kayak Fire Extinguisher Laws
Safety equipment, such as fire extinguishers, should be on the boat in any emergency.
The United States Coast Guard boating laws mention to carry a fire extinguisher if you have:
An Inboard engine
Fuel tank
Unsealed double-bottoms
Constricted compartments
Arizona Kayaking Light Laws
The watercraft must carry a flashlight or lantern to prevent collision and potential incidents. Arizona state boating laws recommend operators to use light in the following situations:
When away from the dock between sunset and sunrise.
During periods of restricted visibility, such as heavy rain or smog.
Note: Blue lights are reserved for law enforcement, while white light is recommended for general use.
Arizona Kayak Sounding Devices Laws
Vessels less than 12 meters in length operating in Arizona state must carry a horn or whistle for a clear and efficient sound signal. The sound should be audible for at least four seconds and last around half a mile.
Arizona Personal Watercraft Laws
Boating laws for personal watercraft include:
There must be at least two adults present on the boat
Arizona does not require an education course to operate a kayak
PWC operators (drivers) shall not operate or knowingly allow another person to operate a PWC under their ownership or control in a reckless or negligent manner.
The PWC should maintain a clockwise motion from the dock to prevent incidents.
Final Thoughts
Other Arizona laws include showing flags when doing water sports, such as scuba diving and snorkeling. The red flag with one white stripe is for the Colorado River and Lake System. In case of collisions and accidents, the incident should be reported within 48 hours.
You can refer to the official Arizona boating regulations website for a more detailed understanding.
