American Boat Operators' Course
Boating Safety Course Logo
Massachusetts Boat Operators' Course
Home Study Course  |   Log In

Chapter 2: Massachusetts
Laws and Safety Equipment

LAW ENFORCEMENT

  • Massachusetts Environmental Police –Responsible for enforcement within the geographical boundaries of Massachusetts and is the Commonwealth's primary marine enforcement agency, ensuring boater compliance with boating laws and regulations.
  • USCG – Responsible for federal boating regulation and enforcement on all federal navigable waters.
  • County or City marine officers (may be fire or police departments)– Responsible for enforcement within the geographical boundaries of a particular County or City.

If stopped by a law enforcement or marine patrol officer, slow down and bring your boat to a stop if it is safe to do so. Once stopped, wait for further directions from the officer. Generally, the officer will maneuver the patrol boat to you.

Contact information:

Massachusetts Environmental Police
Boat and RV Safety Bureau
1019 Iyanough Rd Rte 132
Hyannis, MA 02601

Definitions

  • Certificate of Number --a document issued by the director, upon application therefor, stating the name and address of the owner of, and the number awarded to a vessel subject to this chapter, except such vessels, other than livery boats, owned by a manufacturer of or dealer in boats.
  • Identification number --the number awarded to a vessel subject to this chapter and upon approval of an application for a certificate of number.
  • Jet skis --a ski propelled by machinery and designed to travel over water.
  • Machinery --all inboard and outboard engines and all other types of motors or mechanical devices capable of propelling vessels.
  • Motorboat --any vessel propelled by machinery whether or not such machinery is the principal source of propulsion, but not a vessel which has a valid marine document issued by the Bureau of Customs of the United States.
  • Operate --navigate or otherwise use a motorboat or vessel.
  • Operator --a person who operates or who has a charge of the navigation or use of a motorboat or vessel.
  • Owner --the person who claims lawful possession of a vessel by virtue of legal title or equitable interest therein which entitles him to possession.
  • Surfjet--a surfboard propelled by machinery and designed to travel over water.
  • Underway --not not anchor, made fast to the shore or aground.
  • Vessel --watercraft of every description, except a seaplane on the water used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water.
  • Waters of the commonwealth --all coastal and inland waters as defined in section one of chapter one hundred and thirty-one except ponds less than ten acres in area and owned by one person, and is not open to the public.
  • Wetbike --a vessel designed to travel over water, supported by skis propelled by machinery.

 
Online Users