State law requires that scuba divers or snorkelers display a diver-down
flag to mark the diving area. Vessel operators must stay at least
150 feet away from a displayed diver-down flag. Two types of flags
are used to indicate diving activity.
| Illustration |
Types of Flags |
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Divers Flag:
- The divers flag is a rectangular red flag with a white
diagonal stripe used to indicate when diving activities
are in progress on New Hampshire state waters.
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Alfa Flag:
- On federal waters, you also may see a blue and white
International Code Flag A (or Alfa flag) displayed on a
vessel engaged in diving operations.
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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.
Permits from the New Hampshire Marine Patrol (NHMP) are required
for tournaments, regattas, races, or any other water event. A permit
also is required to place a water-skiing jump or water-skiing course, tow
a kite glider or parasail, or tow more than two persons behind
your vessel. Penalties exist for participating in or refusing an
officer’s instruction to leave a water event that has not
been issued a permit.
Many waterways in New Hampshire have special regulations such
as horsepower restrictions, speed limits, or limits on when certain
vessels may be used. Check for restrictions on a waterway before
you go boating.
