It's the Law: Required Equipment

Sound-Producing Devices

In periods of reduced visibility or whenever a vessel operator needs to signal his or her intentions or position, a sound-producing device is essential.

Although not required on most state waters, sound-producing devices are required on federally controlled waters. The requirements are:

• Vessels less than 65.6 feet in length, which includes PWCs, are required to carry on board a whistle or horn or some other means to make an efficient sound signal audible for at least one-half mile.
• Vessels that are 65.6 feet or more in length are required to carry on board a whistle or horn, and a bell that are audible for at least one mile.

No vessel may be equipped with a siren, except vessels used by law enforcement officers.