Specific PFD Requirements

Vermont law requires the following with respect to PFDs.

• All vessels, except sailboards, must carry one USCG–approved wearable PFD for each person on board.
• Children under 12 years of age must wear a USCG–approved wearable PFD at all times while underway on the open deck of any vessel.
• A person under 16 years of age must wear a USCG–approved wearable PFD at all times while on board a sailboard.
• If a person chooses to wear a PFD that is not USCG approved (when not specifically required), a properly fitting USCG–approved PFD must be carried on board the vessel to meet the state and federal carriage requirements.
• Everyone on board a PWC must wear a USCG–approved wearable PFD.
• Anyone being towed behind a vessel must wear a USCG–approved wearable PFD. Ski belts are not approved PFDs.
• All PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition and must 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.