Diver-Down Flags

Connecticut and federal laws require that scuba divers or snorkelers display a diver-down flag to mark the diving area. You may not operate a vessel or manipulate water skis or similar devices within 100 feet of a displayed diver-down flag. Divers must stay within 50 feet of their flag.

Two types of flags are used to indicate 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.

Diver-Down Flags: A rectangular red flag, at least 13 inches high x 15 inches wide, with a white diagonal stripe is displayed if on 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 the vessel is involved in a diving activity.