Requirements for Stand-Up Paddleboards

The use of stand-up paddleboards (SUPs) is growing in popularity in Maine. All paddleboards are SUPs. The USCG classifies SUPs as watercraft.

When using an SUP, certain requirements apply.

• SUP users must comply with recreational watercraft laws and rules.
• SUPs must have:
  • A PFD for each person on board the watercraft.
  • A sound-producing device such as a whistle.
  • Navigation lights when used between sunset and sunrise—this may be a flashlight or a headlamp with a white light.
  • Visual distress signals when used on territorial waters between sunset and sunrise.