Specific PFD Requirements
Ohio law requires the following with respect to PFDs.
- All vessels must have at least one wearable (Type I, II, or III) USCG–approved PFD for each person on board or being towed.
- All vessels 16 feet long or longer must also carry a throwable (Type IV) device.
- No person shall operate or permit to be operated any vessel under 18 feet long with a child less than 10 years of age on board unless the child is wearing a PFD.
- No person shall engage in any form of towed watersports without wearing an adequate and effective USCG–approved PFD specifically designed for towed watersports.
- No person shall engage in barefoot skiing without wearing:
- An adequate and effective USCG–approved wearable PFD specifically designed for water-skiing or…
- A wetsuit specifically designed for barefoot skiing.
- No person shall operate or permit the operation of a PWC unless each person on the PWC is wearing a USCG–approved PFD used in compliance with the manufacturer’s labeling.
- All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and be readily accessible. The PFDs must be of the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for PFDs is based on body weight and chest size.
