Massachusetts Boating Regulations and Laws

Massachusetts law places certain restrictions on boat and PWC operators. These restrictions vary depending on the operator's age and the type of vessel being operated. See Who May Operate a Vessel for the specific requirements.

Do your part to make boating in Massachusetts a safe, enjoyable pastime! Become an educated, responsible boater by studying the Boat Massachusetts course and practice what you learn.

How do I learn about the legal requirements of boating in Massachusetts?

Laws and regulations concerning operating a personal watercraft or vessel, required equipment, vessel registration and much more can be found in Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating.

Who needs a Boating Safety Certificate, and what can they operate?

Massachusetts's boating safety education requirements and laws about operating a boat or PWC are explained in detail on the Who May Operate a Vessel page.

Public Access to the Waters of Massachusetts

Public Access to the Waters of Massachusetts is a full-color publication that includes 90 individual site maps and descriptions of more than 200 access points to state waterways. The 150-page guide also includes information about sportfishing piers, fishing in fresh and marine waters, boating law, rights of access, and information about boating and fishing programs in the Department of Fish and Game.

Copies of Public Access to the Waters of Massachusetts may be purchased in person for $5.00 each from the Public Access Board office (1440 Soldiers Field Rd., near the intersection of Market St. and Western Avenue in Brighton) during business hours or may be ordered by mail by sending a check or money order for $8.00 per book payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, along with the address to which the book(s) are to be shipped, to:

Public Access Board
1440 Soldiers Field Rd.
Brighton, MA 02135

Call the Public Access Board office at 617-727-1843 if you need additional information.