Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Other Equipment and Regulations

Diver-Down Flags

Scuba divers or snorkelers must display a diver-down flag that marks their diving area. The person(s) diving must stay within 100 feet of the vertical position of their diver-down flag. Vessels must remain at least 200 feet away from a diver-down flag. Two types of flags are used to indicate diving activity.

	Divers Flag: A rectangular red flag, at least 14 inches x 16 inches with a 3½-inch white diagonal stripe, must be displayed if on Michigan state waters.
	Alfa Flag: A blue and white International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag), at least 3.3 feet (one meter) high and visible from all directions, must be displayed on vessels on federally controlled waters. This flag indicates that a vessel is involved in a diving activity.

Scuba divers and snorkelers should not place a flag in an area already occupied by other boaters or where their diving operation will impede the normal flow of waterway traffic. Divers also should follow all of the water safety rules themselves.

Trailers

Michigan has specific requirements for boat trailers. For further information, contact the Michigan Secretary of State at 517-322-1460, or call or visit one of the branch offices. The law requires the following for trailers.

• Trailers must be licensed and registered.
• If the gross weight of the vessel and trailer exceeds 3,000 pounds, the trailer must be equipped with brakes.
• Trailers must have proper lighting, including turn signals, taillights, and brake lights. All trailer lights must be maintained in an operable condition—same as when the trailer was manufactured.
• All towing vehicles must be connected to the trailer by a safety chain or cable of sufficient strength to maintain connection under all conditions.

Marine Events

In order to hold a race, regatta, or tournament, you must notify the Michigan Department of Natural Resources at least 30 days prior to the event by calling 517-373-1230. If the event is being held on federally controlled waters, a permit from the U.S. Coast Guard is required.

Local Regulations

Local waterways may have specific equipment and operational requirements in addition to those covered in this chapter. Check with the governing body of the county or municipality where the waterway is located before going boating.