Boat Massachusetts Handbook Home Page
Boat Massachusetts Handbook Home Page
Vessel Length Classes
Vessel Capacity
Fueling a Vessel
Filing a Float Plan
Sample Float Plan
Pre-Departure Checklist
Boat Theft Prevention
Trailering Your Vessel Safely
Encountering Other Vessels
Navigation Rules
Nighttime Navigation
U.S. Aids to Navigation System (ATON)
Weather Emergencies
Other Boating Emergencies
Steering and Stopping a PWC
Ignition Safety Switches
Reboarding a Capsized PWC
Courtesy When Encountering Other Vessels
Environmental Considerations
Other PWC Considerations
Registering Your Motorboat
Where To Register
How To Apply for Registration
Titling Your Motorboat
Fees To Register and Title Your Vessel
Other Facts About Registering and Titling
Hull Identification Number
Who May Operate a Vessel
Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
Navigation Lights
Fire Extinguishers
Ventilation System
Backfire Flame Arrestors
Mufflers and Noise Level Limits
Sound Producing Devices
Sound Signals
Visual Distress Signals (VDSs)
Diver Down Flag
Anchor and Bailer
Paddle or Oar
Ladder
Unlawful and Dangerous Operation
Alcohol and Drugs
Obstructing Navigation
Marine Events
Homeland Security Restrictions
Boating Accidents
Local Regulations
Enforcement
Requirements Specific to PWCs
Sharing Your PWC ... Safely!
Towing Skiers
Hand Signals for Skiers
Discharge of Sewage and Waste
Discharge of Trash
Discharge of Oil and Other Hazardous Substances
Protect Marine Mammals
Invasive Species
Required Equipment Checklist
Boaters' Telephone Directory
Massachusetts Environmental Police Contact Information
PDF Version of this Handbook (prints well)
This handbook is a guide to Massachusetts boating laws for recreational boaters.
Information in this handbook does not replace what is specifically legal for boating in Massachusetts, which is found in Massachusetts General Law, Code of Massachusetts Regulations, and federal law.