O.C.G.A. § 52-7-71 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-71
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-71
Status: reserved

(a) Any person who removes a vessel from public property or public water at the request of a law enforcement officer or stores such vessel shall, if the owner of the vessel is unknown, seek the identity of and address of the last known registered owner of such vessel from the law enforcement officer requesting removal of such vessel or such officer's agency within 72 hours of removal.

(a) Any person who removes a vessel from public property or public water at the request of a law enforcement officer or stores such vessel shall, if the owner of the vessel is unknown, seek the identity of and address of the last known registered owner of such vessel from the law enforcement officer requesting removal of such vessel or such officer's agency within 72 hours of removal.

(b) Any person who removes a vessel from private property or private waters at the request of the property owner or stores such vessel shall, if the owner of the vessel is unknown, notify in writing a local law enforcement agency of the location of the vessel, the vessel certificate of number, and the hull identification number, model, year, and make of the vessel, if known or if readily ascertainable, within 72 hours of the removal of such vessel and shall seek from the local law enforcement agency the identity and address of the last known registered owner of such vessel and any information indicating that such vessel is a stolen vessel.

(b) Any person who removes a vessel from private property or private waters at the request of the property owner or stores such vessel shall, if the owner of the vessel is unknown, notify in writing a local law enforcement agency of the location of the vessel, the vessel certificate of number, and the hull identification number, model, year, and make of the vessel, if known or if readily ascertainable, within 72 hours of the removal of such vessel and shall seek from the local law enforcement agency the identity and address of the last known registered owner of such vessel and any information indicating that such vessel is a stolen vessel.

(c) If any vessel removed under conditions set forth in subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section is determined to be a stolen vessel, the local law enforcement officer or agency shall notify the Georgia Crime Information Center and the owner, if known, of the location of such vessel within 72 hours after receiving notice that such vessel is a stolen vessel.

(c) If any vessel removed under conditions set forth in subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section is determined to be a stolen vessel, the local law enforcement officer or agency shall notify the Georgia Crime Information Center and the owner, if known, of the location of such vessel within 72 hours after receiving notice that such vessel is a stolen vessel.

(d) If any vessel removed under conditions set forth in subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section is determined not to be a stolen vessel or is not a vessel being repaired by a repair facility or is not being stored by an insurance company providing insurance to cover damages to the vessel, the person removing or storing such vessel shall, within seven calendar days of the day such vessel was removed, notify the owner, if known, by certified or registered mail or statutory overnight delivery of the location of such vessel, the fees connected with removal and storage of such vessel, and the fact that such vessel will be deemed abandoned under this article unless the owner redeems such vessel within 30 days of the date such vessel was removed.

(d) If any vessel removed under conditions set forth in subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section is determined not to be a stolen vessel or is not a vessel being repaired by a repair facility or is not being stored by an insurance company providing insurance to cover damages to the vessel, the person removing or storing such vessel shall, within seven calendar days of the day such vessel was removed, notify the owner, if known, by certified or registered mail or statutory overnight delivery of the location of such vessel, the fees connected with removal and storage of such vessel, and the fact that such vessel will be deemed abandoned under this article unless the owner redeems such vessel within 30 days of the date such vessel was removed.

(e) If the person identified as the owner fails to redeem such vessel as described in subsection (d) of this Code section, or if a vessel being repaired by a repair facility or being stored by an insurance company providing insurance to cover damages to the vessel becomes abandoned, the person removing or storing such vessel shall, within seven calendar days of the day such vessel became an abandoned vessel, give notice in writing, by sworn statement, to the Department of Natural Resources stating the vessel certificate of number, the hull identification number, the fact that such vessel is an abandoned vessel, the model, year, and make of the vessel, if known or if readily ascertainable, the date the vessel became an abandoned vessel, the date the vessel was removed, and the present location of such vessel and requesting the name and address of all owners, lessors, lessees, security interest holders, and lienholders of such vessel. If a person removing or storing the vessel has knowledge of facts which reasonably indicate that the vessel is registered or titled in a certain other state, such person shall check the vessel records of that other state in the attempt to ascertain the identity of the owner of the vessel.

(e) If the person identified as the owner fails to redeem such vessel as described in subsection (d) of this Code section, or if a vessel being repaired by a repair facility or being stored by an insurance company providing insurance to cover damages to the vessel becomes abandoned, the person removing or storing such vessel shall, within seven calendar days of the day such vessel became an abandoned vessel, give notice in writing, by sworn statement, to the Department of Natural Resources stating the vessel certificate of number, the hull identification number, the fact that such vessel is an abandoned vessel, the model, year, and make of the vessel, if known or if readily ascertainable, the date the vessel became an abandoned vessel, the date the vessel was removed, and the present location of such vessel and requesting the name and address of all owners, lessors, lessees, security interest holders, and lienholders of such vessel. If a person removing or storing the vessel has knowledge of facts which reasonably indicate that the vessel is registered or titled in a certain other state, such person shall check the vessel records of that other state in the attempt to ascertain the identity of the owner of the vessel.

(e.1)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section, then the commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license required by this title or Title 27 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the certificate of number or license, or both. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph. (B) Any person whose vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department. (2)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section and delivery of a copy of such notice to the state revenue commissioner, then the state revenue commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any motor vehicle registration required by Title 40 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the registration. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph. (B) Any person whose motor vehicle registration is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the state revenue commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department.

(e.1)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section, then the commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license required by this title or Title 27 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the certificate of number or license, or both. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph. (B) Any person whose vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department.

(e.1)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section, then the commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license required by this title or Title 27 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the certificate of number or license, or both. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph.

(e.1)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section, then the commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license required by this title or Title 27 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the certificate of number or license, or both. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph.

(B) Any person whose vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department.

(B) Any person whose vessel certificate of number or commercial fishing boat license is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department.

(2)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section and delivery of a copy of such notice to the state revenue commissioner, then the state revenue commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any motor vehicle registration required by Title 40 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the registration. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph. (B) Any person whose motor vehicle registration is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the state revenue commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department.

(2)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section and delivery of a copy of such notice to the state revenue commissioner, then the state revenue commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any motor vehicle registration required by Title 40 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the registration. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph.

(2)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (e) of this Code section and delivery of a copy of such notice to the state revenue commissioner, then the state revenue commissioner may revoke, suspend, deny, or refuse to renew any motor vehicle registration required by Title 40 which is held by or has been applied for by the person, until all fees connected with removal and storage of the vessel have been paid and any lien acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 for such fees has been satisfied. The person shall be notified of the proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery to the name and address indicated on the application for the registration. The proposed order for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal shall become final 30 days after issuance if not appealed as provided in this paragraph.

(B) Any person whose motor vehicle registration is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the state revenue commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department.

(B) Any person whose motor vehicle registration is proposed for revocation, suspension, denial, or nonrenewal under this paragraph shall have the right to enter an appeal in the superior court of the county of his or her residence or in the Superior Court of Fulton County. Such appeal shall name the state revenue commissioner as defendant and must be filed within 30 days from the date the notice of the proposed order was sent. The person filing the appeal shall neither be required to post any bond nor to pay the costs in advance. If the person so desires, the appeal may be heard by the judge at term or in chambers or by a jury at the first term. The hearing on the appeal shall be de novo, but no appeal shall act as a supersedeas of any orders or acts of the department.

(f) Upon ascertaining the owner of such vessel, the person removing or storing such vessel shall, within five calendar days, by certified or registered mail or statutory overnight delivery, notify the owner, lessors, lessees, security interest holders, and lienholders of the vessel of the location of such vessel and of the fact that such vessel is deemed abandoned and shall be disposed of if not redeemed.

(f) Upon ascertaining the owner of such vessel, the person removing or storing such vessel shall, within five calendar days, by certified or registered mail or statutory overnight delivery, notify the owner, lessors, lessees, security interest holders, and lienholders of the vessel of the location of such vessel and of the fact that such vessel is deemed abandoned and shall be disposed of if not redeemed.

(g) If the identity of the owner of such vessel cannot be ascertained, the person removing or storing such vessel shall place an advertisement in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where such vessel was obtained or, if there is no newspaper in such county, shall post such advertisement at the county courthouse in such place where other public notices are posted. Such advertisement shall run in the newspaper once a week for two consecutive weeks or shall remain posted at the courthouse for two consecutive weeks. The advertisement shall contain a complete description of the vessel, its certificate of number and hull identification number, the location from where such vessel was initially removed, the present location of such vessel, and the fact that such vessel is deemed abandoned and shall be disposed of if not redeemed.

(g) If the identity of the owner of such vessel cannot be ascertained, the person removing or storing such vessel shall place an advertisement in a newspaper of general circulation in the county where such vessel was obtained or, if there is no newspaper in such county, shall post such advertisement at the county courthouse in such place where other public notices are posted. Such advertisement shall run in the newspaper once a week for two consecutive weeks or shall remain posted at the courthouse for two consecutive weeks. The advertisement shall contain a complete description of the vessel, its certificate of number and hull identification number, the location from where such vessel was initially removed, the present location of such vessel, and the fact that such vessel is deemed abandoned and shall be disposed of if not redeemed.

(h) Reserved.

(h) Reserved.

(i) Any person storing a vessel under the provisions of this Code section shall notify the Department of Natural Resources if the vessel is recovered, is claimed by the owner, is determined to be stolen, or is for any reason no longer an abandoned vessel. Such notice shall be provided within seven calendar days of such event.

(i) Any person storing a vessel under the provisions of this Code section shall notify the Department of Natural Resources if the vessel is recovered, is claimed by the owner, is determined to be stolen, or is for any reason no longer an abandoned vessel. Such notice shall be provided within seven calendar days of such event.

(j) If vessel information on the abandoned vessel is not in the files of the Department of Natural Resources, the department may require such other information or confirmation as it determines is necessary or appropriate to determine the identity of the vessel.

(j) If vessel information on the abandoned vessel is not in the files of the Department of Natural Resources, the department may require such other information or confirmation as it determines is necessary or appropriate to determine the identity of the vessel.

(k) Any person who does not provide the notice and information required by this Code section shall not be entitled to any storage fees.

(k) Any person who does not provide the notice and information required by this Code section shall not be entitled to any storage fees.

(l) Any person who knowingly provides false or misleading information when providing any notice or information as required by this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished as for a misdemeanor.

(l) Any person who knowingly provides false or misleading information when providing any notice or information as required by this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished as for a misdemeanor.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-13 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-13
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-13
Status: in_force

Whenever any canal or backwaters of any company incorporated as provided in this chapter shall encroach upon or cross any public road, the company shall restore the road to a condition suitable for use by the public, by bridges or otherwise. All bridges constructed under this Code section shall be built and maintained in good order at the expense of the canal company.
O.C.G.A. § 52-5-6 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 5 / Section 52-5-6
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-5-6
Status: in_force

When the amount of capital stock has been subscribed, the persons named in the certificate of incorporation, or a majority of them, are authorized to call a meeting of the stockholders for the purpose of organization, which meeting shall be held in the city or other place where the principal office of the company shall be located, and of which meeting notice shall have been given as provided in this chapter. At the meeting, at which a majority of stock subscribed shall constitute a quorum, there shall be elected a board of directors of not less than three to manage the affairs of the company, each share of stock to be entitled to one vote and a plurality of votes cast being necessary to elect. The persons so elected shall continue in office until relieved by their successors. No person shall be a director in the company unless he is a stockholder; and a majority of the directors must be citizens of this state. The board of directors shall select from their number a president, may elect one or more vice-presidents, and may appoint a secretary, a treasurer, and such other officers, agents, and servants as they may deem necessary. The regular election of directors shall be held annually at the principal office of the company. Vacancies occasioned by death, resignation, or otherwise shall be filled in such manner as shall be provided by the bylaws of the company.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-12 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-12
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-12
Status: in_force

The Governor may make available to the Georgia Ports Authority for the purpose of acquiring necessary lands, including improvements thereon, as well as for constructing buildings, terminals, and other port facilities, any funds appropriated for the construction of port facilities. Any land so acquired shall be conveyed to the Georgia Ports Authority.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-3
Status: in_force

The Secretary of State shall keep on file all petitions for incorporation and transcripts from minutes provided for in this chapter and shall also keep a book in which shall be entered by him the name of the company, date of incorporation, amount of capital stock, location of principal office, and any increase or decrease of capital stock.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-37 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-37
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-37
Status: in_force

The commissioners may suspend any pilot or deprive him of his license or assess against him such fines and other penalties as they may think best, upon evidence satisfactory to them of negligence, unskillfulness, inattention to duty, intemperance, addiction to the use of drugs, mental derangement, misconduct, or willful violation of any of their rules or regulations, subject to the right of the pilot to appeal as provided in Code Section 52-6-38 .
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-44 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-44
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-44
Status: in_force

The secretary's fees for each subpoena shall be 25¢ and for each attachment 50¢. For serving any subpoena and for executing and returning an attachment, a sheriff's or constable's fee shall be charged as otherwise provided by law. The commissioner or notary public before whom testimony is taken by deposition shall receive for his services and for reporting and transcribing the question or answers of the witness, or both, the fees allowed by law for similar services rendered in cases pending in courts of record of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-8-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-8-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-8.3
Status: in_force

(a) A person 16 years of age or older may operate any vessel or personal watercraft on any of the waters of this state if such person has met the applicable requirements of Code Section 52-7-22 , and such person has in such vessel proper identification.

(a) A person 16 years of age or older may operate any vessel or personal watercraft on any of the waters of this state if such person has met the applicable requirements of Code Section 52-7-22 , and such person has in such vessel proper identification.

(b) A person 15 years of age or older may operate a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 vessel on any of the waters of this state if such person: (1) Has in such vessel either proper identification or an instruction permit issued pursuant to subsection (a) of Code Section 40-5-24 ; (2) Is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older, in or on the vessel, who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section, and is ready and capable of taking immediate control of the vessel; and (3) Has met the applicable requirements of Code Section 52-7-22 .

(b) A person 15 years of age or older may operate a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 vessel on any of the waters of this state if such person:

(1) Has in such vessel either proper identification or an instruction permit issued pursuant to subsection (a) of Code Section 40-5-24 ;

(1) Has in such vessel either proper identification or an instruction permit issued pursuant to subsection (a) of Code Section 40-5-24 ;

(2) Is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older, in or on the vessel, who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section, and is ready and capable of taking immediate control of the vessel; and

(2) Is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older, in or on the vessel, who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section, and is ready and capable of taking immediate control of the vessel; and

(3) Has met the applicable requirements of Code Section 52-7-22 .

(3) Has met the applicable requirements of Code Section 52-7-22 .

(c) A person 12 through 15 years of age may operate a personal watercraft or Class A vessel on any of the waters of this state in compliance with the provisions of this article if such person: (1) Is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section; or (2) Has completed a boating education course approved by the department.

(c) A person 12 through 15 years of age may operate a personal watercraft or Class A vessel on any of the waters of this state in compliance with the provisions of this article if such person:

(1) Is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section; or

(1) Is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section; or

(2) Has completed a boating education course approved by the department.

(2) Has completed a boating education course approved by the department.

(d) No person between 12 through 14 years of age may operate a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 vessel.

(d) No person between 12 through 14 years of age may operate a Class 1, Class 2, or Class 3 vessel.

(e) No person under the age of 12 years shall operate any Class 1, 2, or 3 vessel or any personal watercraft on any of the waters of this state, and no such person shall operate any Class A vessel utilizing mechanical means of propulsion exceeding 30 horsepower. Such person may operate a Class A vessel, other than a personal watercraft, utilizing mechanical means of propulsion not exceeding 30 horsepower only where such person is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section.

(e) No person under the age of 12 years shall operate any Class 1, 2, or 3 vessel or any personal watercraft on any of the waters of this state, and no such person shall operate any Class A vessel utilizing mechanical means of propulsion exceeding 30 horsepower. Such person may operate a Class A vessel, other than a personal watercraft, utilizing mechanical means of propulsion not exceeding 30 horsepower only where such person is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older who is authorized to operate such vessel under the provisions of subsection (a) of this Code section.

(f) No person having ownership or control of a vessel shall permit another person to operate such vessel in violation of this Code section.

(f) No person having ownership or control of a vessel shall permit another person to operate such vessel in violation of this Code section.

(g) No person shall rent, lease, or let for hire any vessel ten horsepower or more to any person under 16 years of age. On and after July 1, 2014, a person 16 years of age or older may rent or lease any vessel ten horsepower or more if such person has completed a boating education course approved by the department. This subsection shall not apply to any person licensed by the United States Coast Guard as a master of a vessel or a nonresident who has in his or her possession proof that he or she has completed a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators approved boater education course or equivalency examination from another state.

(g) No person shall rent, lease, or let for hire any vessel ten horsepower or more to any person under 16 years of age. On and after July 1, 2014, a person 16 years of age or older may rent or lease any vessel ten horsepower or more if such person has completed a boating education course approved by the department. This subsection shall not apply to any person licensed by the United States Coast Guard as a master of a vessel or a nonresident who has in his or her possession proof that he or she has completed a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators approved boater education course or equivalency examination from another state.

(h) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Accompanied by ” means in the physical presence within the vessel of a person who is not under the influence of alcohol, toxic vapors, or drugs to a degree which would constitute a violation of Code Section 52-7-12 were such person operating the vessel. (2) “Personal watercraft” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 52-7-8.2 . (3) “Proper identification” shall have the same meaning as in subsection (d) of Code Section 3-3-23 , relating to furnishing of alcoholic beverages.

(h) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “ Accompanied by ” means in the physical presence within the vessel of a person who is not under the influence of alcohol, toxic vapors, or drugs to a degree which would constitute a violation of Code Section 52-7-12 were such person operating the vessel.

(1) “ Accompanied by ” means in the physical presence within the vessel of a person who is not under the influence of alcohol, toxic vapors, or drugs to a degree which would constitute a violation of Code Section 52-7-12 were such person operating the vessel.

(2) “Personal watercraft” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 52-7-8.2 .

(2) “Personal watercraft” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Code Section 52-7-8.2 .

(3) “Proper identification” shall have the same meaning as in subsection (d) of Code Section 3-3-23 , relating to furnishing of alcoholic beverages.

(3) “Proper identification” shall have the same meaning as in subsection (d) of Code Section 3-3-23 , relating to furnishing of alcoholic beverages.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-10 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-10
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-10
Status: in_force

(a)(1) The motor vehicle traffic laws for this state shall apply to all roads within the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority; provided, however, that the authority may determine and declare reasonable, safe, and lawful speed limits on all roads within its jurisdiction. (2) Those regular employees of the Georgia Ports Authority designated as peace officers shall have the power to arrest for traffic offenses committed and investigate motor vehicle accidents which occurred on any property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority and upon any private or public property within one mile of any port, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the authority. (3) Such arrest may be effected by issuance of a citation that shall enumerate the specific charges against the offender and the date on which the offender is to appear and answer the charges. (4) If the offender fails to appear as specified in the citation, the judge having jurisdiction of the offense may issue a warrant ordering the apprehension of such person and commanding that he or she be brought before the court to answer the charges contained in the citation and the charge of his or her failure to appear as required. The person shall be allowed to make a reasonable bond to appear on a given date before the court. (5) Peace officers shall be subject to Chapter 13 of Title 40, relating to uniform traffic citation and complaint forms.

(a)(1) The motor vehicle traffic laws for this state shall apply to all roads within the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority; provided, however, that the authority may determine and declare reasonable, safe, and lawful speed limits on all roads within its jurisdiction.

(a)(1) The motor vehicle traffic laws for this state shall apply to all roads within the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority; provided, however, that the authority may determine and declare reasonable, safe, and lawful speed limits on all roads within its jurisdiction.

(2) Those regular employees of the Georgia Ports Authority designated as peace officers shall have the power to arrest for traffic offenses committed and investigate motor vehicle accidents which occurred on any property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority and upon any private or public property within one mile of any port, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the authority.

(2) Those regular employees of the Georgia Ports Authority designated as peace officers shall have the power to arrest for traffic offenses committed and investigate motor vehicle accidents which occurred on any property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority and upon any private or public property within one mile of any port, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the authority.

(3) Such arrest may be effected by issuance of a citation that shall enumerate the specific charges against the offender and the date on which the offender is to appear and answer the charges.

(3) Such arrest may be effected by issuance of a citation that shall enumerate the specific charges against the offender and the date on which the offender is to appear and answer the charges.

(4) If the offender fails to appear as specified in the citation, the judge having jurisdiction of the offense may issue a warrant ordering the apprehension of such person and commanding that he or she be brought before the court to answer the charges contained in the citation and the charge of his or her failure to appear as required. The person shall be allowed to make a reasonable bond to appear on a given date before the court.

(4) If the offender fails to appear as specified in the citation, the judge having jurisdiction of the offense may issue a warrant ordering the apprehension of such person and commanding that he or she be brought before the court to answer the charges contained in the citation and the charge of his or her failure to appear as required. The person shall be allowed to make a reasonable bond to appear on a given date before the court.

(5) Peace officers shall be subject to Chapter 13 of Title 40, relating to uniform traffic citation and complaint forms.

(5) Peace officers shall be subject to Chapter 13 of Title 40, relating to uniform traffic citation and complaint forms.

(b) Peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority may arrest for violations of state law committed upon any property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority or while in pursuit of one whom the peace officer observed committing an offense upon any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority.

(b) Peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority may arrest for violations of state law committed upon any property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority or while in pursuit of one whom the peace officer observed committing an offense upon any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority.

(c) All offenders apprehended for criminal and traffic related offenses committed within the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority as provided in subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section shall be tried by the appropriate city, county, or state tribunal.

(c) All offenders apprehended for criminal and traffic related offenses committed within the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority as provided in subsections (a) and (b) of this Code section shall be tried by the appropriate city, county, or state tribunal.

(d) All peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall be subject to the requirements of Chapter 8 of Title 35, the “Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Act.”

(d) All peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall be subject to the requirements of Chapter 8 of Title 35, the “Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Act.”

(e) While in the performance of their duties, peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the same powers of arrest and the same powers to enforce law and order as the sheriff of the county and the chief of police of the county or municipality in this state wherein any such peace officer is performing his or her duty. While in the performance of their duties, any such peace officers shall be authorized to exercise such powers and duties as are authorized by law for members of the Uniform Division of the Department of Public Safety.

(e) While in the performance of their duties, peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the same powers of arrest and the same powers to enforce law and order as the sheriff of the county and the chief of police of the county or municipality in this state wherein any such peace officer is performing his or her duty. While in the performance of their duties, any such peace officers shall be authorized to exercise such powers and duties as are authorized by law for members of the Uniform Division of the Department of Public Safety.

(f) While in the performance of their duties, peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the right to issue citations to vehicles parked in areas not specifically designated for the parking of vehicles while on properties under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority. The issuance of any such parking citation shall require the person who parked said vehicle to respond by the payment of a fine or by appearing in the court which handles misdemeanor traffic offenses for the county in which the property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority is located, in which event the amount of the fine shall be fixed at the discretion of the judge of said court. In addition to the right to issue parking citations, peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the right to remove improperly parked cars or vehicles in accordance with the provisions of Code Section 44-1-13 .

(f) While in the performance of their duties, peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the right to issue citations to vehicles parked in areas not specifically designated for the parking of vehicles while on properties under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority. The issuance of any such parking citation shall require the person who parked said vehicle to respond by the payment of a fine or by appearing in the court which handles misdemeanor traffic offenses for the county in which the property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority is located, in which event the amount of the fine shall be fixed at the discretion of the judge of said court. In addition to the right to issue parking citations, peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the right to remove improperly parked cars or vehicles in accordance with the provisions of Code Section 44-1-13 .

(g) Peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the following additional duties and powers: (1) Maintain peace and order and enforce laws and regulations relating to controlling access to any building or property under the control or operation of the Georgia Ports Authority; (2) Investigate criminal incidents and activity occurring on Georgia Ports Authority property or having a nexus to Georgia Ports Authority interests relative to ports other than inland ports; (3) Apprehend and arrest any person upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority who is a fugitive from justice; (4) Serve and execute warrants upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority; (5) Take reasonable steps necessary to prevent or dispel acts of disorderly conduct upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority, upon any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, which is under the jurisdiction of the authority, or at the direction of the Governor; (6) Provide security protection services, or transportation or escort services, or both, to officials in connection with Georgia Ports Authority matters and at special events, regardless of whether the event takes place on property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority, when such security protection services, or transportation or escort services, or both, are necessary or appropriate to deter actual or potential threats to the safety of such officials; and (7) While working within an official capacity, make initial inquiries into any situation under circumstances where reasonable grounds exist to believe a criminal law has been, is being, or is about to be violated upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority or on any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the authority. Any initial inquiry or arrest made shall be initiated only if a local law enforcement officer having primary jurisdiction is not readily available and the officer of the Georgia Ports Authority reasonably believes that a failure to act could result in the commission of a criminal act or the escape of a person who has committed a criminal act. In any action taken by an officer of the Georgia Ports Authority pursuant to this paragraph, such officer shall relinquish jurisdiction to the local law enforcement agency when feasible and as soon as practicable.

(g) Peace officers of the Georgia Ports Authority shall have the following additional duties and powers:

(1) Maintain peace and order and enforce laws and regulations relating to controlling access to any building or property under the control or operation of the Georgia Ports Authority;

(1) Maintain peace and order and enforce laws and regulations relating to controlling access to any building or property under the control or operation of the Georgia Ports Authority;

(2) Investigate criminal incidents and activity occurring on Georgia Ports Authority property or having a nexus to Georgia Ports Authority interests relative to ports other than inland ports;

(2) Investigate criminal incidents and activity occurring on Georgia Ports Authority property or having a nexus to Georgia Ports Authority interests relative to ports other than inland ports;

(3) Apprehend and arrest any person upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority who is a fugitive from justice;

(3) Apprehend and arrest any person upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority who is a fugitive from justice;

(4) Serve and execute warrants upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority;

(4) Serve and execute warrants upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority;

(5) Take reasonable steps necessary to prevent or dispel acts of disorderly conduct upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority, upon any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, which is under the jurisdiction of the authority, or at the direction of the Governor;

(5) Take reasonable steps necessary to prevent or dispel acts of disorderly conduct upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority, upon any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, which is under the jurisdiction of the authority, or at the direction of the Governor;

(6) Provide security protection services, or transportation or escort services, or both, to officials in connection with Georgia Ports Authority matters and at special events, regardless of whether the event takes place on property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority, when such security protection services, or transportation or escort services, or both, are necessary or appropriate to deter actual or potential threats to the safety of such officials; and

(6) Provide security protection services, or transportation or escort services, or both, to officials in connection with Georgia Ports Authority matters and at special events, regardless of whether the event takes place on property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority, when such security protection services, or transportation or escort services, or both, are necessary or appropriate to deter actual or potential threats to the safety of such officials; and

(7) While working within an official capacity, make initial inquiries into any situation under circumstances where reasonable grounds exist to believe a criminal law has been, is being, or is about to be violated upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority or on any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the authority. Any initial inquiry or arrest made shall be initiated only if a local law enforcement officer having primary jurisdiction is not readily available and the officer of the Georgia Ports Authority reasonably believes that a failure to act could result in the commission of a criminal act or the escape of a person who has committed a criminal act. In any action taken by an officer of the Georgia Ports Authority pursuant to this paragraph, such officer shall relinquish jurisdiction to the local law enforcement agency when feasible and as soon as practicable.

(7) While working within an official capacity, make initial inquiries into any situation under circumstances where reasonable grounds exist to believe a criminal law has been, is being, or is about to be violated upon property under the jurisdiction of the Georgia Ports Authority or on any public or private property within one mile of property, other than an inland port, under the jurisdiction of the authority. Any initial inquiry or arrest made shall be initiated only if a local law enforcement officer having primary jurisdiction is not readily available and the officer of the Georgia Ports Authority reasonably believes that a failure to act could result in the commission of a criminal act or the escape of a person who has committed a criminal act. In any action taken by an officer of the Georgia Ports Authority pursuant to this paragraph, such officer shall relinquish jurisdiction to the local law enforcement agency when feasible and as soon as practicable.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-8 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-8
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-8
Status: in_force

(a) Classification. Vessels subject to the provisions of this article shall be divided into four classes as follows: (1) Class A․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․ Less than 16 feet in length (2) Class 1․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․ 16 feet or over and less than 26 feet in length (3) Class 2․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․ 26 feet or over and less than 40 feet in length (4) Class 3․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․ 40 feet or more in length

(a) Classification. Vessels subject to the provisions of this article shall be divided into four classes as follows:

(1)

Class A․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․

Less than 16 feet in length

(2)

Class 1․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․

16 feet or over and less than 26 feet in length

16 feet or over and less

(3)

Class 2․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․

26 feet or over and less than 40 feet in length

26 feet or over and less

(4)

Class 3․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․․

40 feet or more in length

(b) Lights. Every vessel in all weathers from sunset to sunrise shall carry and exhibit lights as provided by regulations of the board.

(b) Lights. Every vessel in all weathers from sunset to sunrise shall carry and exhibit lights as provided by regulations of the board.

(c) Whistle or horn. Every vessel of Class 2 or 3 shall be provided with an efficient whistle or horn or other sound-producing mechanical appliance capable of producing signals required by the rules for the prevention of collision enacted by Congress.

(c) Whistle or horn. Every vessel of Class 2 or 3 shall be provided with an efficient whistle or horn or other sound-producing mechanical appliance capable of producing signals required by the rules for the prevention of collision enacted by Congress.

(d) Visual distress signals. No person may operate a vessel upon the coastal waters of the state unless the required visual distress signal, including flares, smoke signals, and nonpyrotechnic signals, in the number required and of the type approved by the United States Coast Guard, are on board.

(d) Visual distress signals. No person may operate a vessel upon the coastal waters of the state unless the required visual distress signal, including flares, smoke signals, and nonpyrotechnic signals, in the number required and of the type approved by the United States Coast Guard, are on board.

(e) All vessels, when operated upon the coastal waters of the state between the hours of sunset and sunrise shall carry the United States Coast Guard approved night visual distress signal. If a pyrotechnic visual distress signal is carried, a minimum of three unexpired visual distress signals shall be carried in the vessel. Pyrotechnic night visual distress signals are handheld red flare distress signals, parachute red flare distress signals with launcher, hand-held rocket propelled parachute red flare distress signals, or red aerial pyrotechnic flare. Nonpyrotechnic nighttime visual distress signals include one electric distress light meeting the standards of 46 C.F.R. Subpart 161.013. One electric distress light shall meet the nighttime requirement.

(e) All vessels, when operated upon the coastal waters of the state between the hours of sunset and sunrise shall carry the United States Coast Guard approved night visual distress signal. If a pyrotechnic visual distress signal is carried, a minimum of three unexpired visual distress signals shall be carried in the vessel. Pyrotechnic night visual distress signals are handheld red flare distress signals, parachute red flare distress signals with launcher, hand-held rocket propelled parachute red flare distress signals, or red aerial pyrotechnic flare. Nonpyrotechnic nighttime visual distress signals include one electric distress light meeting the standards of 46 C.F.R. Subpart 161.013. One electric distress light shall meet the nighttime requirement.

(f) All vessels, except recreational vessels that are less than 16 feet in length, nonmotorized open sailboats that are less than 26 feet in length, and manually propelled vessels, when operated upon the coastal waters of the state between the hours of sunrise and sunset shall carry the United States Coast Guard approved daytime visual distress signals. Pyrotechnic daytime visual distress signals include all night visual distress signals, as well as floating orange smoke distress signals and hand-held orange smoke distress signals. Nonpyrotechnic daytime visual distress signals include an orange flag meeting the standards of 46 C.F.R. Subpart 160.072. One orange flag shall meet the daytime only requirement.

(f) All vessels, except recreational vessels that are less than 16 feet in length, nonmotorized open sailboats that are less than 26 feet in length, and manually propelled vessels, when operated upon the coastal waters of the state between the hours of sunrise and sunset shall carry the United States Coast Guard approved daytime visual distress signals. Pyrotechnic daytime visual distress signals include all night visual distress signals, as well as floating orange smoke distress signals and hand-held orange smoke distress signals. Nonpyrotechnic daytime visual distress signals include an orange flag meeting the standards of 46 C.F.R. Subpart 160.072. One orange flag shall meet the daytime only requirement.

(g) For the purposes of this Code section, coastal waters shall be limited to those waters defined in 33 C.F.R. Section 175.105(b) .

(g) For the purposes of this Code section, coastal waters shall be limited to those waters defined in 33 C.F.R. Section 175.105(b) .

(h) Lifesaving devices. (1) Every vessel shall be equipped with and carry aboard, at all times, at least one personal flotation device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the Coast Guard for each person on board. In addition to the individual personal flotation device, each vessel 16 feet or more in length, except for canoes and kayaks, must at all times be equipped with at least one throwable device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the Coast Guard. (2) No person may use a vessel upon the waters of this state unless the personal flotation devices as required in paragraph (1) of this subsection are readily accessible to the occupants of the vessel, are in good and serviceable condition, are legibly marked with the United States Coast Guard approved number, and are of an appropriate size for the occupants of the vessel for whom they are intended; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to racing sculls, racing shells, racing sweeps, or homemade or inflatable rafts, as defined in subsection (o) of Code Section 52-7-12 , if such rafts are operated no more than 100 feet from shore on a lake, pond, or other nonflowing body of water. (3) No person shall operate a moving vessel upon the waters of this state with a child under the age of 13 years on board such vessel unless such child is wearing an appropriately sized personal flotation device, as required by this subsection to be on board the vessel. This requirement shall not apply when the child is within a fully enclosed roofed cabin or other fully enclosed roofed compartment or structure on the vessel.

(h) Lifesaving devices.

(1) Every vessel shall be equipped with and carry aboard, at all times, at least one personal flotation device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the Coast Guard for each person on board. In addition to the individual personal flotation device, each vessel 16 feet or more in length, except for canoes and kayaks, must at all times be equipped with at least one throwable device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the Coast Guard.

(1) Every vessel shall be equipped with and carry aboard, at all times, at least one personal flotation device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the Coast Guard for each person on board. In addition to the individual personal flotation device, each vessel 16 feet or more in length, except for canoes and kayaks, must at all times be equipped with at least one throwable device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the Coast Guard.

(2) No person may use a vessel upon the waters of this state unless the personal flotation devices as required in paragraph (1) of this subsection are readily accessible to the occupants of the vessel, are in good and serviceable condition, are legibly marked with the United States Coast Guard approved number, and are of an appropriate size for the occupants of the vessel for whom they are intended; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to racing sculls, racing shells, racing sweeps, or homemade or inflatable rafts, as defined in subsection (o) of Code Section 52-7-12 , if such rafts are operated no more than 100 feet from shore on a lake, pond, or other nonflowing body of water.

(2) No person may use a vessel upon the waters of this state unless the personal flotation devices as required in paragraph (1) of this subsection are readily accessible to the occupants of the vessel, are in good and serviceable condition, are legibly marked with the United States Coast Guard approved number, and are of an appropriate size for the occupants of the vessel for whom they are intended; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to racing sculls, racing shells, racing sweeps, or homemade or inflatable rafts, as defined in subsection (o) of Code Section 52-7-12 , if such rafts are operated no more than 100 feet from shore on a lake, pond, or other nonflowing body of water.

(3) No person shall operate a moving vessel upon the waters of this state with a child under the age of 13 years on board such vessel unless such child is wearing an appropriately sized personal flotation device, as required by this subsection to be on board the vessel. This requirement shall not apply when the child is within a fully enclosed roofed cabin or other fully enclosed roofed compartment or structure on the vessel.

(3) No person shall operate a moving vessel upon the waters of this state with a child under the age of 13 years on board such vessel unless such child is wearing an appropriately sized personal flotation device, as required by this subsection to be on board the vessel. This requirement shall not apply when the child is within a fully enclosed roofed cabin or other fully enclosed roofed compartment or structure on the vessel.

(i) Fire extinguishers. (1) Every mechanically propelled Class A and Class 1 vessel, constructed so as to have enclosed areas which permit entrapment of gases or vapors, shall carry aboard one Type B-I United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher unless there is a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system installed in the machinery space. When such a fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, no hand portable fire extinguisher will be required. (2) Every mechanically propelled Class 2 vessel, regardless of construction, shall carry aboard two Type B-I or one Type B-II United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher. When a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, one less Type B-I hand portable fire extinguisher is required. (3) Every mechanically propelled Class 3 vessel, regardless of construction, shall carry aboard three Type B-I or one Type B-I and one Type B-II United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguishers. When a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, one less Type B-I hand portable fire extinguisher is required. (4) The carriage of any dry stored pressure fire extinguishers not fitted with pressure gauges or indicating devices or any vaporizing liquid fire extinguishers containing carbon tetrachloride, chlorbomethane, 1 or any other toxic vaporizing liquids is prohibited. (5) The carriage of any United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher or any fixed fire extinguishing system which is not fully charged shall be prohibited.

(i) Fire extinguishers.

(1) Every mechanically propelled Class A and Class 1 vessel, constructed so as to have enclosed areas which permit entrapment of gases or vapors, shall carry aboard one Type B-I United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher unless there is a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system installed in the machinery space. When such a fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, no hand portable fire extinguisher will be required.

(1) Every mechanically propelled Class A and Class 1 vessel, constructed so as to have enclosed areas which permit entrapment of gases or vapors, shall carry aboard one Type B-I United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher unless there is a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system installed in the machinery space. When such a fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, no hand portable fire extinguisher will be required.

(2) Every mechanically propelled Class 2 vessel, regardless of construction, shall carry aboard two Type B-I or one Type B-II United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher. When a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, one less Type B-I hand portable fire extinguisher is required.

(2) Every mechanically propelled Class 2 vessel, regardless of construction, shall carry aboard two Type B-I or one Type B-II United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher. When a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, one less Type B-I hand portable fire extinguisher is required.

(3) Every mechanically propelled Class 3 vessel, regardless of construction, shall carry aboard three Type B-I or one Type B-I and one Type B-II United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguishers. When a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, one less Type B-I hand portable fire extinguisher is required.

(3) Every mechanically propelled Class 3 vessel, regardless of construction, shall carry aboard three Type B-I or one Type B-I and one Type B-II United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguishers. When a United States Coast Guard approved fixed fire-extinguishing system is installed in the machinery space, one less Type B-I hand portable fire extinguisher is required.

(4) The carriage of any dry stored pressure fire extinguishers not fitted with pressure gauges or indicating devices or any vaporizing liquid fire extinguishers containing carbon tetrachloride, chlorbomethane, 1 or any other toxic vaporizing liquids is prohibited.

(4) The carriage of any dry stored pressure fire extinguishers not fitted with pressure gauges or indicating devices or any vaporizing liquid fire extinguishers containing carbon tetrachloride, chlorbomethane, 1 or any other toxic vaporizing liquids is prohibited.

(5) The carriage of any United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher or any fixed fire extinguishing system which is not fully charged shall be prohibited.

(5) The carriage of any United States Coast Guard approved hand portable fire extinguisher or any fixed fire extinguishing system which is not fully charged shall be prohibited.

(j) Equipment exemptions in authorized races. Subsections (c) and (i) of this Code section shall not apply to vessels while competing in any race conducted pursuant to Code Section 52-7-19 or, if such vessels are designed and intended solely for racing, while engaged in such navigation as is incidental to the tuning up of the boats and engines for the race.

(j) Equipment exemptions in authorized races. Subsections (c) and (i) of this Code section shall not apply to vessels while competing in any race conducted pursuant to Code Section 52-7-19 or, if such vessels are designed and intended solely for racing, while engaged in such navigation as is incidental to the tuning up of the boats and engines for the race.

(k) Flame arrester for carburetor. Every vessel shall have the carburetor or carburetors of every engine therein, except outboard motors using gasoline as fuel, equipped with an efficient United States Coast Guard approved flame arrester, backfire trap, or other similar device.

(k) Flame arrester for carburetor. Every vessel shall have the carburetor or carburetors of every engine therein, except outboard motors using gasoline as fuel, equipped with an efficient United States Coast Guard approved flame arrester, backfire trap, or other similar device.

(l) Ventilation. Every such vessel, except open boats, using as fuel any liquid of a volatile nature, shall be provided with means for properly and efficiently ventilating the bilges of the engine and fuel tank compartments so as to remove any explosive or flammable gases.

(l) Ventilation. Every such vessel, except open boats, using as fuel any liquid of a volatile nature, shall be provided with means for properly and efficiently ventilating the bilges of the engine and fuel tank compartments so as to remove any explosive or flammable gases.

(m) Rules and regulations. No person shall operate or give permission for the operation of a vessel which is not equipped as required by this article or the rules and regulations of the department made pursuant thereto.

(m) Rules and regulations. No person shall operate or give permission for the operation of a vessel which is not equipped as required by this article or the rules and regulations of the department made pursuant thereto.

(n) Sale of personal flotation devices. It shall be unlawful for any person to sell or offer for sale within this state any personal flotation device which is not United States Coast Guard approved unless such device is clearly marked as follows: “Notice: This personal flotation device is not United States Coast Guard approved.”

(n) Sale of personal flotation devices. It shall be unlawful for any person to sell or offer for sale within this state any personal flotation device which is not United States Coast Guard approved unless such device is clearly marked as follows: “Notice: This personal flotation device is not United States Coast Guard approved.”

(o) Definition. As used in this Code section, the term “personal flotation device” shall not include flotation devices such as plastic toys, rafts, and other devices used for recreational purposes in or around swimming pools, lakes, or beaches when such devices are easily recognizable as not being designed or intended for use as lifesaving devices.

(o) Definition. As used in this Code section, the term “personal flotation device” shall not include flotation devices such as plastic toys, rafts, and other devices used for recreational purposes in or around swimming pools, lakes, or beaches when such devices are easily recognizable as not being designed or intended for use as lifesaving devices.

(p) Penalty. Any person who violates this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

(p) Penalty. Any person who violates this Code section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.

1 So in original.
O.C.G.A. § 52-5-10 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 5 / Section 52-5-10
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-5-10
Status: in_force

(a) A company desiring to have its capital stock increased shall: (1) File in the office of the Secretary of State a petition signed with the corporate name, stating: (A) The name and character of the corporation; (B) The date of its original charter and all amendments thereto; and (C) That it desires to amend the company's charter to increase its capital stock; (2) File, along with the petition called for in paragraph (1) of this subsection: (A) A certified abstract from the minutes of the board of directors showing that the application for the proposed increase in capital stock has been authorized by the vote of a majority of the stockholders of the entire capital stock entitled, by the terms of the corporation's charter, to vote at an annual or special meeting called for that purpose, by a resolution of the board of directors; and (B) An affidavit showing that notice of such meeting was mailed to each stockholder or, in case of death, to the stockholder's legal representatives or heirs at law, addressed to the stockholder's last known residence, at least ten days prior to the day of the meeting.

(a) A company desiring to have its capital stock increased shall:

(1) File in the office of the Secretary of State a petition signed with the corporate name, stating: (A) The name and character of the corporation; (B) The date of its original charter and all amendments thereto; and (C) That it desires to amend the company's charter to increase its capital stock;

(1) File in the office of the Secretary of State a petition signed with the corporate name, stating:

(A) The name and character of the corporation;

(A) The name and character of the corporation;

(B) The date of its original charter and all amendments thereto; and

(B) The date of its original charter and all amendments thereto; and

(C) That it desires to amend the company's charter to increase its capital stock;

(C) That it desires to amend the company's charter to increase its capital stock;

(2) File, along with the petition called for in paragraph (1) of this subsection: (A) A certified abstract from the minutes of the board of directors showing that the application for the proposed increase in capital stock has been authorized by the vote of a majority of the stockholders of the entire capital stock entitled, by the terms of the corporation's charter, to vote at an annual or special meeting called for that purpose, by a resolution of the board of directors; and (B) An affidavit showing that notice of such meeting was mailed to each stockholder or, in case of death, to the stockholder's legal representatives or heirs at law, addressed to the stockholder's last known residence, at least ten days prior to the day of the meeting.

(2) File, along with the petition called for in paragraph (1) of this subsection:

(A) A certified abstract from the minutes of the board of directors showing that the application for the proposed increase in capital stock has been authorized by the vote of a majority of the stockholders of the entire capital stock entitled, by the terms of the corporation's charter, to vote at an annual or special meeting called for that purpose, by a resolution of the board of directors; and

(A) A certified abstract from the minutes of the board of directors showing that the application for the proposed increase in capital stock has been authorized by the vote of a majority of the stockholders of the entire capital stock entitled, by the terms of the corporation's charter, to vote at an annual or special meeting called for that purpose, by a resolution of the board of directors; and

(B) An affidavit showing that notice of such meeting was mailed to each stockholder or, in case of death, to the stockholder's legal representatives or heirs at law, addressed to the stockholder's last known residence, at least ten days prior to the day of the meeting.

(B) An affidavit showing that notice of such meeting was mailed to each stockholder or, in case of death, to the stockholder's legal representatives or heirs at law, addressed to the stockholder's last known residence, at least ten days prior to the day of the meeting.

(b) The affidavit called for in subparagraph (a)(2)(B) of this Code section shall be made and signed in due form of law by the president or secretary of the company and shall show that the ten days' notice has been published once a week for four weeks in the newspaper in which is published the sheriff's sales of the county in which the principal office of the corporation desiring to increase its capital stock is located. The stock may be voted in person or by written proxy.

(b) The affidavit called for in subparagraph (a)(2)(B) of this Code section shall be made and signed in due form of law by the president or secretary of the company and shall show that the ten days' notice has been published once a week for four weeks in the newspaper in which is published the sheriff's sales of the county in which the principal office of the corporation desiring to increase its capital stock is located. The stock may be voted in person or by written proxy.
O.C.G.A. § 52-3-11 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 3 / Section 52-3-11
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-3-11
Status: in_force

For the purpose of determining the lands, easements, and property necessary for the uses set out in this chapter, the Department of Transportation, the United States government, or the agents of either shall have the right to enter upon any lands along the general line of the rights of way for the purpose of locating definitely the specific lines of the rights of way and the land required for such purposes; and there shall be no claim against the State of Georgia or the United States for such acts as may be done in making such surveys.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-6 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-6
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-6
Status: in_force

Any person in possession of the structure or any person claiming ownership of or an interest in the structure which is the subject of an order issued pursuant to Code Section 52-1-5 or Code Section 52-1-10 shall, upon petition in writing within 30 days after service of such order, have a right to a hearing before an administrative law judge appointed by the board. Such petition must be filed with the administrative law judge and must be received by the administrative law judge within such 30 day period. The hearing before the administrative law judge shall be conducted in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act,” and the rules and regulations adopted by the board pursuant thereto. Unless waived by the commissioner, any person seeking a hearing has the burden of going forward with evidence regarding possession or ownership of or an interest in the structure, and the administrative law judge shall take evidence and hear arguments on this issue and thereafter make a ruling on this issue before continuing with the hearing. Any decision of the administrative law judge shall constitute the final decision of the board, and any party to the hearing, including the commissioner, shall have the right of judicial review thereof in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50. The hearing and review procedure provided for the petitioner in this Code section is to the exclusion of all other means of hearing or review.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-3
Status: reserved

As used in this article, the term:

(1) The term “ alcohol concentration ” means grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath.

(1) The term “ alcohol concentration ” means grams of alcohol per 100 milliliters of blood or grams of alcohol per 210 liters of breath.

(1.1) “ Blind point ” means that portion of any of the waters of this state in which there is a natural or man-made obstruction which prevents the operator of a vessel from seeing vessels approaching from the opposite side of the obstruction, thus creating a safety hazard which could result in a boating accident.

(1.1) “ Blind point ” means that portion of any of the waters of this state in which there is a natural or man-made obstruction which prevents the operator of a vessel from seeing vessels approaching from the opposite side of the obstruction, thus creating a safety hazard which could result in a boating accident.

(2) “ Board ” means the Board of Natural Resources.

(2) “ Board ” means the Board of Natural Resources.

(3) “ Boat livery ” means a business which holds any vessel for renting, leasing, or chartering.

(3) “ Boat livery ” means a business which holds any vessel for renting, leasing, or chartering.

(4) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of natural resources.

(4) “ Commissioner ” means the commissioner of natural resources.

(5) “ Dealer ” means any person engaged in the business of manufacturing vessels or selling new or used vessels at an established place of business.

(5) “ Dealer ” means any person engaged in the business of manufacturing vessels or selling new or used vessels at an established place of business.

(6) “ Department ” means the Department of Natural Resources.

(6) “ Department ” means the Department of Natural Resources.

(7) “ Discharged ” means, and shall include, spilled, leaked, pumped, poured, emitted, or dumped.

(7) “ Discharged ” means, and shall include, spilled, leaked, pumped, poured, emitted, or dumped.

(7.1) “ Hazardous area ” means any area which the commissioner has designated as such because of conditions which create a threat to the safety and welfare of boaters who may operate in such area.

(7.1) “ Hazardous area ” means any area which the commissioner has designated as such because of conditions which create a threat to the safety and welfare of boaters who may operate in such area.

(8) “ Holding tank ” means any container which is designed to receive and hold sewage and other wastes discharged from a marine toilet and which is constructed and installed in such a manner that it can only be emptied by pumping out the contents of such holding tank.

(8) “ Holding tank ” means any container which is designed to receive and hold sewage and other wastes discharged from a marine toilet and which is constructed and installed in such a manner that it can only be emptied by pumping out the contents of such holding tank.

(8.1) “ Homemade vessel ” means any vessel that is built by an individual for personal use from raw materials that does not require the assignment of a federal hull identification number by a manufacturer pursuant to federal law. A person furnishing raw materials under a contract may be considered the builder of a homemade vessel. Antique boats, boats reconstructed from existing boat hulls, and rebuilt or reconstructed vessels are not considered homemade vessels.

(8.1) “ Homemade vessel ” means any vessel that is built by an individual for personal use from raw materials that does not require the assignment of a federal hull identification number by a manufacturer pursuant to federal law. A person furnishing raw materials under a contract may be considered the builder of a homemade vessel. Antique boats, boats reconstructed from existing boat hulls, and rebuilt or reconstructed vessels are not considered homemade vessels.

(8.2) “ Hull identification number ” or “ HIN ” means a number assigned to vessels by the manufacturer of the vessel or by the issuing authority of a state as required by the United States Coast Guard in accordance with federal law.

(8.2) “ Hull identification number ” or “ HIN ” means a number assigned to vessels by the manufacturer of the vessel or by the issuing authority of a state as required by the United States Coast Guard in accordance with federal law.

(9) “ Idle speed ” means a slow speed maintained by the operator of a mechanically propelled vessel reached by engaging the engine of the vessel into said speed by reducing the throttle to a minimum.

(9) “ Idle speed ” means a slow speed maintained by the operator of a mechanically propelled vessel reached by engaging the engine of the vessel into said speed by reducing the throttle to a minimum.

(9.1) “ Issuing authority ” means, as to this state, the Department of Natural Resources; and, as to other states, the state if it has a numbering system approved by the United States Coast Guard or the United States Coast Guard if the state that does not have an approved numbering system.

(9.1) “ Issuing authority ” means, as to this state, the Department of Natural Resources; and, as to other states, the state if it has a numbering system approved by the United States Coast Guard or the United States Coast Guard if the state that does not have an approved numbering system.

(10) “Marine toilet” includes any equipment for installation on board a vessel which is designed to receive, retain, treat, or discharge sewage and any process to treat such sewage. A marine toilet must be equipped with a holding tank which can be emptied only by pumping out.

(10) “Marine toilet” includes any equipment for installation on board a vessel which is designed to receive, retain, treat, or discharge sewage and any process to treat such sewage. A marine toilet must be equipped with a holding tank which can be emptied only by pumping out.

(11) “ Mechanically propelled vessel ” means, for the purpose of determining fire extinguisher requirements, those vessels propelled by machinery using a volatile liquid for fuel.

(11) “ Mechanically propelled vessel ” means, for the purpose of determining fire extinguisher requirements, those vessels propelled by machinery using a volatile liquid for fuel.

(12) “ Nonmotorized vessel ” means any vessel other than a sailboat which has no motor attached in a manner to make it readily available for operation.

(12) “ Nonmotorized vessel ” means any vessel other than a sailboat which has no motor attached in a manner to make it readily available for operation.

(13) “ No wake ” means that the wake or wash created by the movement of the vessel through the water is minimal.

(13) “ No wake ” means that the wake or wash created by the movement of the vessel through the water is minimal.

(14) “ Operate ” means to navigate or otherwise use a vessel which is not at anchor or moored, including vessels which are being paddled, are drifting, or are being powered by machinery.

(14) “ Operate ” means to navigate or otherwise use a vessel which is not at anchor or moored, including vessels which are being paddled, are drifting, or are being powered by machinery.

(15) “ Operator ” means the person who operates or has charge of the navigation or use of a vessel.

(15) “ Operator ” means the person who operates or has charge of the navigation or use of a vessel.

(16) “ Owner ” means a person, other than a lienholder, having the property in or title to a vessel. The term includes a person entitled to the use or possession of a vessel subject to an interest in another person reserved or created by agreement and securing payment or performance of an obligation but the term excludes a lessee under a lease not intended as security.

(16) “ Owner ” means a person, other than a lienholder, having the property in or title to a vessel. The term includes a person entitled to the use or possession of a vessel subject to an interest in another person reserved or created by agreement and securing payment or performance of an obligation but the term excludes a lessee under a lease not intended as security.

(17) “ Person ” means an individual, partnership, firm, corporation, association, or other legal entity.

(17) “ Person ” means an individual, partnership, firm, corporation, association, or other legal entity.

(18) “ Personal flotation device ” means any lifesaving device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the United States Coast Guard.

(18) “ Personal flotation device ” means any lifesaving device classified and approved by the regulations of the commandant of the United States Coast Guard.

(19) “ Portable marine toilet ” means any device which is movable or portable and is not permanently installed on a vessel and which is designed to receive and temporarily retain sewage.

(19) “ Portable marine toilet ” means any device which is movable or portable and is not permanently installed on a vessel and which is designed to receive and temporarily retain sewage.

(20) “ Power boat ” means any boat, vessel, or water-going craft which is propelled by mechanical rather than manual means whether or not such propulsion device forms an integral part of the structure thereof.

(20) “ Power boat ” means any boat, vessel, or water-going craft which is propelled by mechanical rather than manual means whether or not such propulsion device forms an integral part of the structure thereof.

(21) “ Protected fresh waters ” means the waters of Lake Allatoona, Lake Blackshear, Clarks Hill Lake, Hartwell Lake, Lake Sidney Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Seminole, Lake Sinclair, Russell Lake, Walter F. George Reservoir, and West Point Lake.

(21) “ Protected fresh waters ” means the waters of Lake Allatoona, Lake Blackshear, Clarks Hill Lake, Hartwell Lake, Lake Sidney Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Seminole, Lake Sinclair, Russell Lake, Walter F. George Reservoir, and West Point Lake.

(22) “ Reportable boating accident ” means an accident, collision, or other casualty involving a vessel subject to this article which results in loss of life, injury sufficient to cause incapacitation for at least 24 hours, or actual physical damage to property, including vessels, in excess of $2,000.00.

(22) “ Reportable boating accident ” means an accident, collision, or other casualty involving a vessel subject to this article which results in loss of life, injury sufficient to cause incapacitation for at least 24 hours, or actual physical damage to property, including vessels, in excess of $2,000.00.

(22.1) “ Sailboard ” means any sailboat whose unsupported mast is connected by a swivel or a flexible universal joint to a hull similar to the hull of a surfboard.

(22.1) “ Sailboard ” means any sailboat whose unsupported mast is connected by a swivel or a flexible universal joint to a hull similar to the hull of a surfboard.

(23) “ Sewage ” means human body wastes and the waste from toilets and other receptacles intended to receive or retain body wastes.

(23) “ Sewage ” means human body wastes and the waste from toilets and other receptacles intended to receive or retain body wastes.

(24) “ Undocumented vessel ” means a vessel which is not required to have and does not have a valid marine document issued by the United States Coast Guard or federal agency successor thereto.

(24) “ Undocumented vessel ” means a vessel which is not required to have and does not have a valid marine document issued by the United States Coast Guard or federal agency successor thereto.

(25) “ Vessel ” means every description of watercraft, other than a seaplane on the water or a sailboard, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water and specifically includes, but is not limited to, inflatable rafts and homemade vessels; provided, however, that Code Section 52-7-18 , relating to rules of the road for boat traffic, shall be applicable to sailboards.

(25) “ Vessel ” means every description of watercraft, other than a seaplane on the water or a sailboard, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on water and specifically includes, but is not limited to, inflatable rafts and homemade vessels; provided, however, that Code Section 52-7-18 , relating to rules of the road for boat traffic, shall be applicable to sailboards.

(26) “ Visual distress signal ” means a device that is approved and required by the commandant of the United States Coast Guard for the purpose of indicating a vessel in distress, including flares, smoke signals, and nonpyrotechnic signals.

(26) “ Visual distress signal ” means a device that is approved and required by the commandant of the United States Coast Guard for the purpose of indicating a vessel in distress, including flares, smoke signals, and nonpyrotechnic signals.

(26.1) “ Wakeboarding ” means the activity of: (A) Being towed on a board with or without foot bindings by a motorboat across the vessel's wake; or (B) Operating a motorboat in a manner that creates a wake while towing a person on a board with or without foot bindings.

(26.1) “ Wakeboarding ” means the activity of:

(A) Being towed on a board with or without foot bindings by a motorboat across the vessel's wake; or

(A) Being towed on a board with or without foot bindings by a motorboat across the vessel's wake; or

(B) Operating a motorboat in a manner that creates a wake while towing a person on a board with or without foot bindings.

(B) Operating a motorboat in a manner that creates a wake while towing a person on a board with or without foot bindings.

(26.2) “ Wakesurfing ” means the activity of: (A) Surfing a motorboat's wake, regardless of whether the person is being pulled by a tow rope attached to the motorboat that is producing the wake; or (B) Operating a motorboat in a manner that creates a wake that is capable of being surfed by another person.

(26.2) “ Wakesurfing ” means the activity of:

(A) Surfing a motorboat's wake, regardless of whether the person is being pulled by a tow rope attached to the motorboat that is producing the wake; or

(A) Surfing a motorboat's wake, regardless of whether the person is being pulled by a tow rope attached to the motorboat that is producing the wake; or

(B) Operating a motorboat in a manner that creates a wake that is capable of being surfed by another person.

(B) Operating a motorboat in a manner that creates a wake that is capable of being surfed by another person.

(27) “ Waters of this state ” means any waters within the territorial limits of this state and the marginal sea adjacent to this state and the high seas when navigated as a part of a journey or ride to or from the shore of this state. This definition shall not include privately owned ponds or lakes not open to the public.

(27) “ Waters of this state ” means any waters within the territorial limits of this state and the marginal sea adjacent to this state and the high seas when navigated as a part of a journey or ride to or from the shore of this state. This definition shall not include privately owned ponds or lakes not open to the public.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-74 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-74
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-74
Status: in_force

All liens acquired under Code Section 52-7-73 shall be foreclosed as follows:

(1) Any proceeding to foreclose a lien on an abandoned vessel must be instituted within one year from the time the lien is recorded or is asserted by retention;

(1) Any proceeding to foreclose a lien on an abandoned vessel must be instituted within one year from the time the lien is recorded or is asserted by retention;

(2) The person desiring to foreclose a lien on an abandoned vessel shall, by certified or registered mail or statutory overnight delivery, make a demand upon the owner for the payment of the reasonable fees for removal and storage plus the costs of any advertisement. Such written demand shall include an itemized statement of all charges. No such written demand shall be required if the identity of the owner cannot be ascertained and the notice requirements of subsection (g) of Code Section 52-7-71 have been complied with;

(2) The person desiring to foreclose a lien on an abandoned vessel shall, by certified or registered mail or statutory overnight delivery, make a demand upon the owner for the payment of the reasonable fees for removal and storage plus the costs of any advertisement. Such written demand shall include an itemized statement of all charges. No such written demand shall be required if the identity of the owner cannot be ascertained and the notice requirements of subsection (g) of Code Section 52-7-71 have been complied with;

(3)(A) If, within ten days of delivery to the appropriate address of the written demand required by paragraph (2) of this Code section, the owner of the abandoned vessel fails to respond to such demand or refuses to pay, or if the owner of the abandoned vessel cannot be ascertained, the person removing or storing the abandoned vessel may foreclose such lien. The person asserting such lien may move to foreclose by making an affidavit to a court of competent jurisdiction showing all facts necessary to constitute such lien and the amount claimed to be due. Such affidavit shall aver that the notice requirements of Code Section 52-7-71 have been complied with, and such affidavit shall also aver that a demand for payment has been made and refused or that the identity of the owner cannot be ascertained. The person foreclosing shall verify the statement by oath or affirmation and shall affix his signature thereto. (B) Regardless of the court in which the affidavit required by this paragraph is filed, the fee for filing such affidavit shall be $5.00 per vessel upon which a lien is asserted;

(3)(A) If, within ten days of delivery to the appropriate address of the written demand required by paragraph (2) of this Code section, the owner of the abandoned vessel fails to respond to such demand or refuses to pay, or if the owner of the abandoned vessel cannot be ascertained, the person removing or storing the abandoned vessel may foreclose such lien. The person asserting such lien may move to foreclose by making an affidavit to a court of competent jurisdiction showing all facts necessary to constitute such lien and the amount claimed to be due. Such affidavit shall aver that the notice requirements of Code Section 52-7-71 have been complied with, and such affidavit shall also aver that a demand for payment has been made and refused or that the identity of the owner cannot be ascertained. The person foreclosing shall verify the statement by oath or affirmation and shall affix his signature thereto.

(3)(A) If, within ten days of delivery to the appropriate address of the written demand required by paragraph (2) of this Code section, the owner of the abandoned vessel fails to respond to such demand or refuses to pay, or if the owner of the abandoned vessel cannot be ascertained, the person removing or storing the abandoned vessel may foreclose such lien. The person asserting such lien may move to foreclose by making an affidavit to a court of competent jurisdiction showing all facts necessary to constitute such lien and the amount claimed to be due. Such affidavit shall aver that the notice requirements of Code Section 52-7-71 have been complied with, and such affidavit shall also aver that a demand for payment has been made and refused or that the identity of the owner cannot be ascertained. The person foreclosing shall verify the statement by oath or affirmation and shall affix his signature thereto.

(B) Regardless of the court in which the affidavit required by this paragraph is filed, the fee for filing such affidavit shall be $5.00 per vessel upon which a lien is asserted;

(B) Regardless of the court in which the affidavit required by this paragraph is filed, the fee for filing such affidavit shall be $5.00 per vessel upon which a lien is asserted;

(4)(A) Upon such affidavit's being filed, the lien claimant shall give the clerk or judge of the court the address, if known, of the owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holders, and lienholders of the abandoned vessel. The clerk or judge of the court shall serve notice upon such owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holders, and lienholders of the abandoned vessel of a right to a hearing to determine if reasonable cause exists to believe that a valid debt exists; that such hearing must be petitioned for within ten days after receipt of such notice; and that, if no petition for such hearing is filed within the time allowed, the lien will conclusively be deemed a valid one and foreclosure thereof allowed. (B) Any notice required by this paragraph shall be by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery or, if the owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holder, or lienholder is unknown, by posting such notice at the county courthouse in such place where other public notices are posted;

(4)(A) Upon such affidavit's being filed, the lien claimant shall give the clerk or judge of the court the address, if known, of the owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holders, and lienholders of the abandoned vessel. The clerk or judge of the court shall serve notice upon such owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holders, and lienholders of the abandoned vessel of a right to a hearing to determine if reasonable cause exists to believe that a valid debt exists; that such hearing must be petitioned for within ten days after receipt of such notice; and that, if no petition for such hearing is filed within the time allowed, the lien will conclusively be deemed a valid one and foreclosure thereof allowed.

(4)(A) Upon such affidavit's being filed, the lien claimant shall give the clerk or judge of the court the address, if known, of the owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holders, and lienholders of the abandoned vessel. The clerk or judge of the court shall serve notice upon such owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holders, and lienholders of the abandoned vessel of a right to a hearing to determine if reasonable cause exists to believe that a valid debt exists; that such hearing must be petitioned for within ten days after receipt of such notice; and that, if no petition for such hearing is filed within the time allowed, the lien will conclusively be deemed a valid one and foreclosure thereof allowed.

(B) Any notice required by this paragraph shall be by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery or, if the owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holder, or lienholder is unknown, by posting such notice at the county courthouse in such place where other public notices are posted;

(B) Any notice required by this paragraph shall be by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery or, if the owner, lessor, lessee, security interest holder, or lienholder is unknown, by posting such notice at the county courthouse in such place where other public notices are posted;

(5) If a petition for a probable cause hearing is filed within the time allowed, the court shall set such a hearing within ten days of filing of the petition. If, at the hearing, the court determines that reasonable cause exists to believe that a valid debt exists, then the person asserting the lien shall retain possession of the vessel or the court shall obtain possession of the vessel, as ordered by the court. The owner-debtor may obtain possession of the vessel by giving bond and security in the amount determined to be probably due and costs of the action;

(5) If a petition for a probable cause hearing is filed within the time allowed, the court shall set such a hearing within ten days of filing of the petition. If, at the hearing, the court determines that reasonable cause exists to believe that a valid debt exists, then the person asserting the lien shall retain possession of the vessel or the court shall obtain possession of the vessel, as ordered by the court. The owner-debtor may obtain possession of the vessel by giving bond and security in the amount determined to be probably due and costs of the action;

(6) Within five days of the probable cause hearing, a party defendant must petition the court for a full hearing on the validity of the debt if a further determination of the validity of the debt is desired. If no such petition is filed, the lien for the amount determined reasonably due shall conclusively be deemed a valid one and foreclosure thereof allowed. If such a petition is filed, the court shall set a full hearing thereon within 15 days of the filing of the petition. Upon the filing of such petition by a party defendant, neither the prosecuting lienholder nor the court may sell the vessel, although possession of the vessel may be retained;

(6) Within five days of the probable cause hearing, a party defendant must petition the court for a full hearing on the validity of the debt if a further determination of the validity of the debt is desired. If no such petition is filed, the lien for the amount determined reasonably due shall conclusively be deemed a valid one and foreclosure thereof allowed. If such a petition is filed, the court shall set a full hearing thereon within 15 days of the filing of the petition. Upon the filing of such petition by a party defendant, neither the prosecuting lienholder nor the court may sell the vessel, although possession of the vessel may be retained;

(7) If, after a full hearing, the court finds that a valid debt exists, then the court shall authorize foreclosure upon and sale of the vessel subject to the lien to satisfy the debt if such debt is not otherwise immediately paid;

(7) If, after a full hearing, the court finds that a valid debt exists, then the court shall authorize foreclosure upon and sale of the vessel subject to the lien to satisfy the debt if such debt is not otherwise immediately paid;

(8) If the court finds the actions of the person asserting the lien in retaining possession of the vessel were not taken in good faith, then the court, in its discretion, may award damages to the owner, any party which has been deprived of the rightful use of the vessel, or the lessee due to the deprivation of the use of the vessel; and

(8) If the court finds the actions of the person asserting the lien in retaining possession of the vessel were not taken in good faith, then the court, in its discretion, may award damages to the owner, any party which has been deprived of the rightful use of the vessel, or the lessee due to the deprivation of the use of the vessel; and

(9) If no petition for a hearing is filed, or if, after a full hearing, the court determines that a valid debt exists, the court shall issue an order authorizing the sale of such vessel. However, the holder of a security interest in or a lien on the vessel, other than the holder of a lien created by Code Section 52-7-73 , shall have the right, in the order of priority of such security interest or lien, to pay the debt and court costs. If the holder of a security interest or lien does so pay the debt and court costs, such person shall have the right to possession of the vessel, and that person's security interest in or lien on such vessel shall be increased by the amount so paid. A court order shall be issued to this effect, and in this instance there shall not be a sale of the vessel.

(9) If no petition for a hearing is filed, or if, after a full hearing, the court determines that a valid debt exists, the court shall issue an order authorizing the sale of such vessel. However, the holder of a security interest in or a lien on the vessel, other than the holder of a lien created by Code Section 52-7-73 , shall have the right, in the order of priority of such security interest or lien, to pay the debt and court costs. If the holder of a security interest or lien does so pay the debt and court costs, such person shall have the right to possession of the vessel, and that person's security interest in or lien on such vessel shall be increased by the amount so paid. A court order shall be issued to this effect, and in this instance there shall not be a sale of the vessel.
O.C.G.A. § 52-8-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 8 / Section 52-8-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-8-3
Status: in_force

Upon receipt by the Board of Pilotage Commissioners of satisfactory evidence of the offense specified in Code Section 52-8-1 , it shall be the duty of the board to proceed to recover the forfeiture provided for in that Code section by process of attachment in the name of the state, which may be issued as other attachments on the oath of the informer or of one of the commissioners and may be levied on the vessel from which the offense was committed. The vessel may be replevied by the master, owner, or consignee by giving bond, payable to the state, in double the amount of the penalty, with the condition to have the vessel forthcoming to satisfy such judgment as may be rendered in the action.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-39 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-39
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-39
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioner may, after July 1, 1992, issue a permit for a maximum term of five years for the location, usage, and possession of a structure which existed on February 1, 1992, upon a navigable river or navigable stream of the state; provided, however, that no permit shall be issued for any structure which does not conform to and meet the requirements of rules and regulations promulgated by the board establishing minimum standards of sanitation, safety, and construction. No permit shall be issued for a term ending after June 30, 1997.

(a) The commissioner may, after July 1, 1992, issue a permit for a maximum term of five years for the location, usage, and possession of a structure which existed on February 1, 1992, upon a navigable river or navigable stream of the state; provided, however, that no permit shall be issued for any structure which does not conform to and meet the requirements of rules and regulations promulgated by the board establishing minimum standards of sanitation, safety, and construction. No permit shall be issued for a term ending after June 30, 1997.

(b) No permit issued by the commissioner pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section shall be renewable and a permit may be revoked by the commissioner at any time during its term for failure to continue to meet the requirements of the board's rules.

(b) No permit issued by the commissioner pursuant to subsection (a) of this Code section shall be renewable and a permit may be revoked by the commissioner at any time during its term for failure to continue to meet the requirements of the board's rules.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-20 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-20
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-20
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “Aids to navigation” means buoys, beacons, or other fixed objects in the water which are used to mark obstructions to navigation or to direct navigation through safe channels. (2) “Regulatory markers” means any anchored or fixed marker in or on the water or any sign on the shore or on a bridge over the water other than aids to navigation and shall include, but not be limited to, bathing markers, speed zone markers, information markers, danger zone markers, boat keep-out area markers, and mooring buoys.

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “Aids to navigation” means buoys, beacons, or other fixed objects in the water which are used to mark obstructions to navigation or to direct navigation through safe channels.

(1) “Aids to navigation” means buoys, beacons, or other fixed objects in the water which are used to mark obstructions to navigation or to direct navigation through safe channels.

(2) “Regulatory markers” means any anchored or fixed marker in or on the water or any sign on the shore or on a bridge over the water other than aids to navigation and shall include, but not be limited to, bathing markers, speed zone markers, information markers, danger zone markers, boat keep-out area markers, and mooring buoys.

(2) “Regulatory markers” means any anchored or fixed marker in or on the water or any sign on the shore or on a bridge over the water other than aids to navigation and shall include, but not be limited to, bathing markers, speed zone markers, information markers, danger zone markers, boat keep-out area markers, and mooring buoys.

(b) It shall be unlawful to operate a power boat, except at an idle speed, or to create a wake in the vicinity of those marinas, bridges, public access ramps, and blind points which are identified by appropriate signs and markers which conform to the system of aids to navigation prescribed by the United States Coast Guard and to the system of uniform waterway markers approved by the Advisory Panel of State Officials to the Merchant Marine Council or on any portion of the Chattahoochee River between the Morgan Falls Dam and the Georgia Highway 400 bridge which the department so marks as being so restricted.

(b) It shall be unlawful to operate a power boat, except at an idle speed, or to create a wake in the vicinity of those marinas, bridges, public access ramps, and blind points which are identified by appropriate signs and markers which conform to the system of aids to navigation prescribed by the United States Coast Guard and to the system of uniform waterway markers approved by the Advisory Panel of State Officials to the Merchant Marine Council or on any portion of the Chattahoochee River between the Morgan Falls Dam and the Georgia Highway 400 bridge which the department so marks as being so restricted.

(c) It shall be unlawful to tow a person on water skis, aquaplanes, surfboards, or any similar device or to manipulate any such device on any public waters of the state which the commissioner has designated as a hazardous area or on the Chattahoochee River between the Morgan Falls Dam and the Georgia Highway 400 bridge in any area identified by regulatory markers as a no ski area.

(c) It shall be unlawful to tow a person on water skis, aquaplanes, surfboards, or any similar device or to manipulate any such device on any public waters of the state which the commissioner has designated as a hazardous area or on the Chattahoochee River between the Morgan Falls Dam and the Georgia Highway 400 bridge in any area identified by regulatory markers as a no ski area.

(d) The commissioner is authorized to regulate and restrict vessel operation and other recreational water related activities on the public waters of the state. The Department of Natural Resources is authorized to place or designate the placement of signs and markers so as to identify the areas restricted by this Code section.

(d) The commissioner is authorized to regulate and restrict vessel operation and other recreational water related activities on the public waters of the state. The Department of Natural Resources is authorized to place or designate the placement of signs and markers so as to identify the areas restricted by this Code section.

(e) No city, county, or individual may attempt to regulate the public waters of this state by use of the above-mentioned signs and markers without the express written permission of the commissioner of natural resources.

(e) No city, county, or individual may attempt to regulate the public waters of this state by use of the above-mentioned signs and markers without the express written permission of the commissioner of natural resources.

(f) The operation of any vessel within prohibited areas that are marked shall be prima-facie evidence of negligent operation.

(f) The operation of any vessel within prohibited areas that are marked shall be prima-facie evidence of negligent operation.

(g) It shall be unlawful for a person to operate a vessel on the waters of this state in a manner other than that prescribed or permitted by regulatory markers.

(g) It shall be unlawful for a person to operate a vessel on the waters of this state in a manner other than that prescribed or permitted by regulatory markers.

(h) No person shall moor or fasten a vessel to or willfully damage, tamper, remove, obstruct, or interfere with any aid to navigation or regulatory marker established pursuant to this Code section.

(h) No person shall moor or fasten a vessel to or willfully damage, tamper, remove, obstruct, or interfere with any aid to navigation or regulatory marker established pursuant to this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-73 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-73
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-73
Status: in_force

(a) Any person who removes or stores any vessel which is or becomes an abandoned vessel shall have a lien on such vessel for the reasonable fees connected with such removal or storage plus the cost of any advertisement. Prior to acquiring such lien, the person must have complied with the requirements of Code Section 52-7-71 .

(a) Any person who removes or stores any vessel which is or becomes an abandoned vessel shall have a lien on such vessel for the reasonable fees connected with such removal or storage plus the cost of any advertisement. Prior to acquiring such lien, the person must have complied with the requirements of Code Section 52-7-71 .

(b) The lien acquired under subsection (a) of this Code section may be foreclosed in any court which is competent to hear civil cases, including, but not limited to, magistrate courts. Liens shall be foreclosed in magistrate courts only when the amount of the lien does not exceed the jurisdictional limits established by law for such courts.

(b) The lien acquired under subsection (a) of this Code section may be foreclosed in any court which is competent to hear civil cases, including, but not limited to, magistrate courts. Liens shall be foreclosed in magistrate courts only when the amount of the lien does not exceed the jurisdictional limits established by law for such courts.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-27 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-27
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-27
Status: in_force

While any of the bonds issued by the authority remain outstanding, the powers, duties, or existence of the authority or of its officers, employees, or agents shall not be diminished or impaired in any manner that will affect adversely the interest and rights of the holders of such bonds; and no other entity, department, agency, or authority will be created which will compete with the authority to such an extent as to affect adversely the interests and rights of the holders of the bonds nor will the state itself so compete with the authority. This chapter shall be for the benefit of the state, the authority, and the holders of any such bonds and, upon the issuance of bonds under this chapter, shall constitute a contract with the holders of the bonds.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-8-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-8-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-8.1
Status: in_force

(a)(1) The General Assembly finds that because of the increasing number of vessels having marine toilets which are operated or moored on Allatoona Lake, Lake Blackshear, Clarks Hill Lake, Hartwell Lake, Lake Sidney Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Seminole, Lake Sinclair, Russell Lake, Walter F. George Reservoir, Lake Blue Ridge, and West Point Lake, it is necessary for the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare to prohibit the discharge of sewage from such vessels into the waters of such lakes. (2) Because of the findings stated in paragraph (1) of this subsection, it is declared to be the intent of the General Assembly to protect and enhance the quality of the waters of such lakes by requiring greater environmental protection than is provided pursuant to Section 312 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, 1 as amended, such that any discharge of sewage from a vessel into the waters of such lakes shall be prohibited.

(a)(1) The General Assembly finds that because of the increasing number of vessels having marine toilets which are operated or moored on Allatoona Lake, Lake Blackshear, Clarks Hill Lake, Hartwell Lake, Lake Sidney Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Seminole, Lake Sinclair, Russell Lake, Walter F. George Reservoir, Lake Blue Ridge, and West Point Lake, it is necessary for the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare to prohibit the discharge of sewage from such vessels into the waters of such lakes.

(a)(1) The General Assembly finds that because of the increasing number of vessels having marine toilets which are operated or moored on Allatoona Lake, Lake Blackshear, Clarks Hill Lake, Hartwell Lake, Lake Sidney Lanier, Lake Oconee, Lake Seminole, Lake Sinclair, Russell Lake, Walter F. George Reservoir, Lake Blue Ridge, and West Point Lake, it is necessary for the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare to prohibit the discharge of sewage from such vessels into the waters of such lakes.

(2) Because of the findings stated in paragraph (1) of this subsection, it is declared to be the intent of the General Assembly to protect and enhance the quality of the waters of such lakes by requiring greater environmental protection than is provided pursuant to Section 312 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, 1 as amended, such that any discharge of sewage from a vessel into the waters of such lakes shall be prohibited.

(2) Because of the findings stated in paragraph (1) of this subsection, it is declared to be the intent of the General Assembly to protect and enhance the quality of the waters of such lakes by requiring greater environmental protection than is provided pursuant to Section 312 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, 1 as amended, such that any discharge of sewage from a vessel into the waters of such lakes shall be prohibited.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, 2 P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, it shall be unlawful for any person to operate or float a vessel, whether moored or not, on protected fresh waters, from which sewage is discharged into such protected fresh waters.

(b) Except as otherwise provided in the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, 2 P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, it shall be unlawful for any person to operate or float a vessel, whether moored or not, on protected fresh waters, from which sewage is discharged into such protected fresh waters.

(c) Except as otherwise provided in the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, it shall be unlawful to operate or float any vessel on protected fresh waters which has located within or on such vessel a marine toilet, unless such marine toilet is designed and operated to prevent the discharge of sewage, treated or untreated, into protected fresh waters and is equipped with a holding tank, as the term is defined in Code Section 52-7-3 , which is constructed and installed in such a manner that it can be emptied only by pumping out.

(c) Except as otherwise provided in the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, it shall be unlawful to operate or float any vessel on protected fresh waters which has located within or on such vessel a marine toilet, unless such marine toilet is designed and operated to prevent the discharge of sewage, treated or untreated, into protected fresh waters and is equipped with a holding tank, as the term is defined in Code Section 52-7-3 , which is constructed and installed in such a manner that it can be emptied only by pumping out.

(d) It shall be unlawful to pump out any sewage from a holding tank except into a pump-out facility approved by the department. It shall also be unlawful to discharge or dispose of the wastes from a portable marine toilet into protected fresh waters except into a pump-out facility approved by the department or into a permanent toilet or sewer system located on dry land.

(d) It shall be unlawful to pump out any sewage from a holding tank except into a pump-out facility approved by the department. It shall also be unlawful to discharge or dispose of the wastes from a portable marine toilet into protected fresh waters except into a pump-out facility approved by the department or into a permanent toilet or sewer system located on dry land.

(e) Except as otherwise provided in the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, it shall be unlawful for any person to operate or float a vessel having a marine toilet, whether moored or not, on protected fresh waters, unless it has a certificate issued by the department affixed thereto immediately adjacent to its registration number. No certificate may be issued unless a marine toilet and holding tank, as the terms are defined in Code Section 52-7-3 , have been properly installed on the vessel.

(e) Except as otherwise provided in the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, it shall be unlawful for any person to operate or float a vessel having a marine toilet, whether moored or not, on protected fresh waters, unless it has a certificate issued by the department affixed thereto immediately adjacent to its registration number. No certificate may be issued unless a marine toilet and holding tank, as the terms are defined in Code Section 52-7-3 , have been properly installed on the vessel.

(f) Applications shall be signed by the owner or owners of the vessel and shall be accompanied by a fee of $5.00. A certificate issued under this Code section shall continue in full force and effect, and shall not require renewal; provided, however, that the certificate shall become invalid if it is determined that a false or fraudulent statement was made in the application. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the department is authorized to retain all funds generated by the operation of its program to require certificates for marine toilets under this Code section for use in the operation of that program. Any such funds not expended for this purpose in the fiscal year in which they are generated shall be deposited in the state treasury, provided that nothing in this Code section shall be construed so as to allow the department to retain any funds required by the Constitution of the State of Georgia to be paid into the state treasury; provided, further, that the department shall comply with all provisions of Part 1 of Article 4 of Chapter 12 of Title 45, the “Budget Act,” except Code Section 45-12-92 , prior to expending any such miscellaneous funds.

(f) Applications shall be signed by the owner or owners of the vessel and shall be accompanied by a fee of $5.00. A certificate issued under this Code section shall continue in full force and effect, and shall not require renewal; provided, however, that the certificate shall become invalid if it is determined that a false or fraudulent statement was made in the application. Notwithstanding any other provision of law, the department is authorized to retain all funds generated by the operation of its program to require certificates for marine toilets under this Code section for use in the operation of that program. Any such funds not expended for this purpose in the fiscal year in which they are generated shall be deposited in the state treasury, provided that nothing in this Code section shall be construed so as to allow the department to retain any funds required by the Constitution of the State of Georgia to be paid into the state treasury; provided, further, that the department shall comply with all provisions of Part 1 of Article 4 of Chapter 12 of Title 45, the “Budget Act,” except Code Section 45-12-92 , prior to expending any such miscellaneous funds.

(g)(1) This Code section shall apply on and after July 1, 1988, for all vessels on the waters of Lake Sidney Lanier, whether or not they are registered. Each owner of a vessel registered prior to July 1, 1988, shall declare the existence of any marine toilet on the vessel and shall apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the first date of renewal of the vessel's registration after July 1, 1988, if said vessel is to be operated or floated on such waters. For vessels registered after July 1, 1988, which will be operated or floated on such waters, each vessel owner shall declare the existence of any marine toilet and apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the same time application is made to register a vessel. Regardless of any other provisions of this title to the contrary, any vessel which has a marine toilet and which is to be operated or floated on such waters must be registered and must obtain a certificate pursuant to this Code section. (2) Except as provided by paragraph (1) of this subsection, this Code section shall apply on and after July 1, 1991, for all vessels on protected fresh waters, whether or not they are registered. Each owner of a vessel registered prior to July 1, 1991, shall declare the existence of any marine toilet on the vessel and shall apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the first date of renewal of the vessel's registration after July 1, 1991, if said vessel is to be operated or floated on protected fresh waters. For vessels registered after July 1, 1991, which will be operated or floated on protected fresh waters, each vessel owner shall declare the existence of any marine toilet and apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the same time application is made to register a vessel. Regardless of any other provisions of this title to the contrary, any vessel which has a marine toilet and which is to be operated or floated on protected fresh waters must be registered and must obtain a certificate pursuant to this Code section.

(g)(1) This Code section shall apply on and after July 1, 1988, for all vessels on the waters of Lake Sidney Lanier, whether or not they are registered. Each owner of a vessel registered prior to July 1, 1988, shall declare the existence of any marine toilet on the vessel and shall apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the first date of renewal of the vessel's registration after July 1, 1988, if said vessel is to be operated or floated on such waters. For vessels registered after July 1, 1988, which will be operated or floated on such waters, each vessel owner shall declare the existence of any marine toilet and apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the same time application is made to register a vessel. Regardless of any other provisions of this title to the contrary, any vessel which has a marine toilet and which is to be operated or floated on such waters must be registered and must obtain a certificate pursuant to this Code section.

(g)(1) This Code section shall apply on and after July 1, 1988, for all vessels on the waters of Lake Sidney Lanier, whether or not they are registered. Each owner of a vessel registered prior to July 1, 1988, shall declare the existence of any marine toilet on the vessel and shall apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the first date of renewal of the vessel's registration after July 1, 1988, if said vessel is to be operated or floated on such waters. For vessels registered after July 1, 1988, which will be operated or floated on such waters, each vessel owner shall declare the existence of any marine toilet and apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the same time application is made to register a vessel. Regardless of any other provisions of this title to the contrary, any vessel which has a marine toilet and which is to be operated or floated on such waters must be registered and must obtain a certificate pursuant to this Code section.

(2) Except as provided by paragraph (1) of this subsection, this Code section shall apply on and after July 1, 1991, for all vessels on protected fresh waters, whether or not they are registered. Each owner of a vessel registered prior to July 1, 1991, shall declare the existence of any marine toilet on the vessel and shall apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the first date of renewal of the vessel's registration after July 1, 1991, if said vessel is to be operated or floated on protected fresh waters. For vessels registered after July 1, 1991, which will be operated or floated on protected fresh waters, each vessel owner shall declare the existence of any marine toilet and apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the same time application is made to register a vessel. Regardless of any other provisions of this title to the contrary, any vessel which has a marine toilet and which is to be operated or floated on protected fresh waters must be registered and must obtain a certificate pursuant to this Code section.

(2) Except as provided by paragraph (1) of this subsection, this Code section shall apply on and after July 1, 1991, for all vessels on protected fresh waters, whether or not they are registered. Each owner of a vessel registered prior to July 1, 1991, shall declare the existence of any marine toilet on the vessel and shall apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the first date of renewal of the vessel's registration after July 1, 1991, if said vessel is to be operated or floated on protected fresh waters. For vessels registered after July 1, 1991, which will be operated or floated on protected fresh waters, each vessel owner shall declare the existence of any marine toilet and apply for a certificate for the marine toilet at the same time application is made to register a vessel. Regardless of any other provisions of this title to the contrary, any vessel which has a marine toilet and which is to be operated or floated on protected fresh waters must be registered and must obtain a certificate pursuant to this Code section.

(h) Any person owning a vessel with a marine toilet, who does not obtain a certificate for such toilet as provided in subsection (g) of this Code section, if such vessel is operated or floated on protected fresh waters, and any person who falsifies information about the existence of a marine toilet or holding tank in an application for a certificate, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to the penalties associated with misdemeanors.

(h) Any person owning a vessel with a marine toilet, who does not obtain a certificate for such toilet as provided in subsection (g) of this Code section, if such vessel is operated or floated on protected fresh waters, and any person who falsifies information about the existence of a marine toilet or holding tank in an application for a certificate, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to the penalties associated with misdemeanors.

(i) Persons operating or floating vessels with marine toilets and subject to the requirements of this Code section shall create and maintain for at least one year after creation records which indicate the name and location of pump-out facilities used and the dates of such use. Persons who own or operate pump-out facilities shall also create and maintain for at least one year after creation records which indicate the name and vessel registration number, the date of pump-out, and verification of pump-out.

(i) Persons operating or floating vessels with marine toilets and subject to the requirements of this Code section shall create and maintain for at least one year after creation records which indicate the name and location of pump-out facilities used and the dates of such use. Persons who own or operate pump-out facilities shall also create and maintain for at least one year after creation records which indicate the name and vessel registration number, the date of pump-out, and verification of pump-out.

(j) In the event any provision of this Code section is found to be in conflict with the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, such federal act shall control.

(j) In the event any provision of this Code section is found to be in conflict with the federal Clean Water Act of 1977, P.L. 95-217 , as now or hereafter amended, such federal act shall control.

1 33 U.S.C.A. § 1322.

2 33 U.S.C.A. § 1294 et seq.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-39 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-39
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-39
Status: in_force

When the attendance of any person shall be required as a witness before the commissioners in any matter or claim of which they shall have jurisdiction, it shall be the duty of their secretary, upon application, to issue subpoenas signed by him and directed to the persons whose attendance shall be required when such persons reside or shall be found in the county where such matters or claims may be pending. The summons shall express the cause and the party at whose action it is issued and shall be served as subpoenas of courts of record of this state are served at least 24 hours before the meeting of the commissioners to which it shall be returnable; but the subpoenas may be served by a messenger of the commissioners or by any sheriff or constable and the return of the messenger, sheriff, or constable shall be evidence of the service thereof.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-43 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-43
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-43
Status: in_force

The information relating to maximum capacity which is required to appear on capacity plates by Code Section 52-7-42 shall be determined in accordance with such methods and formulas as shall be prescribed by rules or regulations adopted by the Board of Natural Resources. In prescribing such methods and formulas, the Board of Natural Resources shall be guided by and give due regard to the necessity for uniformity in methods and formulas lawful for use in determining small watercraft capacity in the several states and to any methods and formulas which may be recognized or recommended by the United States Coast Guard or any successor agency.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-1
Status: in_force

The corporate authorities of Savannah, Darien, Brunswick, and St. Marys shall each have power to appoint a Board of Pilotage Commissioners (hereinafter referred to as the commissioners), consisting of seven commissioners, each appointed for a term of seven years. Terms of the commissioners shall be staggered with one term expiring each year.
O.C.G.A. § 52-10-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 10 / Section 52-10-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-10-1
Status: in_force

As used in this chapter, “public corporation” means the State of Georgia or any political subdivision thereof, any public agency of this state or of any political subdivision thereof, or any public board, bureau, commission, or authority created by the General Assembly.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-8 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-8
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-8
Status: in_force

No person shall be eligible for membership on the Georgia Ports Authority who shall also be at the time of appointment or who shall thereafter become a member of any local port authority of any city, town, county, or district.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-6 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-6
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-6
Status: in_force

A vessel shall not be required to be numbered under Code Sections 52-7-4 and 52-7-5 if it is:

(1) Not motor propelled; provided, however, that sailboats 12 feet or more in length shall require registration;

(1) Not motor propelled; provided, however, that sailboats 12 feet or more in length shall require registration;

(2) Covered by a certificate of number in full force and effect which has been issued to it pursuant to federal law or a federally approved numbering system of another state, provided that such vessel shall not be used on the waters of this state for a period in excess of 60 consecutive days;

(2) Covered by a certificate of number in full force and effect which has been issued to it pursuant to federal law or a federally approved numbering system of another state, provided that such vessel shall not be used on the waters of this state for a period in excess of 60 consecutive days;

(3) From a country other than the United States, provided that such vessel shall not be used on the waters of this state for a period in excess of 60 consecutive days;

(3) From a country other than the United States, provided that such vessel shall not be used on the waters of this state for a period in excess of 60 consecutive days;

(4) A vessel whose owner is the United States, a state, or a subdivision thereof, which vessel is used exclusively in the nonrecreation public service and which is clearly identifiable as such;

(4) A vessel whose owner is the United States, a state, or a subdivision thereof, which vessel is used exclusively in the nonrecreation public service and which is clearly identifiable as such;

(5) A vessel's lifeboat if the boat is used solely for lifesaving purposes; this exemption does not include dinghies, tenders, speedboats, or other types of craft carried aboard vessels and used for other than lifesaving purposes;

(5) A vessel's lifeboat if the boat is used solely for lifesaving purposes; this exemption does not include dinghies, tenders, speedboats, or other types of craft carried aboard vessels and used for other than lifesaving purposes;

(6) A vessel that is used exclusively for racing;

(6) A vessel that is used exclusively for racing;

(7) A vessel belonging to a class of boats which has been exempted from numbering by the department after the department has found that: (A) The numbering of vessels of such class will not materially aid in their identification; (B) An agency of the federal government has a numbering system applicable to the class of vessel to which the vessel in question belongs; and (C) The vessel would also be exempt from numbering if it were subject to the federal law;

(7) A vessel belonging to a class of boats which has been exempted from numbering by the department after the department has found that:

(A) The numbering of vessels of such class will not materially aid in their identification;

(A) The numbering of vessels of such class will not materially aid in their identification;

(B) An agency of the federal government has a numbering system applicable to the class of vessel to which the vessel in question belongs; and

(B) An agency of the federal government has a numbering system applicable to the class of vessel to which the vessel in question belongs; and

(C) The vessel would also be exempt from numbering if it were subject to the federal law;

(C) The vessel would also be exempt from numbering if it were subject to the federal law;

(8) Operating temporarily by virtue of evidence that an application for a certificate of number has been submitted within the previous 60 days; or

(8) Operating temporarily by virtue of evidence that an application for a certificate of number has been submitted within the previous 60 days; or

(9) Used exclusively on privately owned ponds or lakes, except for those licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

(9) Used exclusively on privately owned ponds or lakes, except for those licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-31 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-31
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-31
Status: in_force

(a) The authority is authorized to fix and to revise from time to time fees, rentals, and other charges for the use of each project and for the services and facilities furnished by the same and to charge and collect the same and to lease and to make contracts with any person, firm, or corporation with respect to the use of any project or part thereof. Such rentals and other charges shall be so fixed and adjusted in respect of the aggregate thereof from the project or projects for which a single issue of revenue bonds is issued or from the authority or the terminal or facilities of which the project or projects are a part, so as to provide a fund sufficient with other revenues of the project or projects, if any, to pay: (1) The cost of new construction of projects; (2) The cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project or projects, including reserves for extraordinary repairs and insurance and other reserves required by the resolution or trust indenture, unless such cost shall be otherwise provided for; and (3) The principal of the revenue bonds and the interest thereon as the same shall become due.

(a) The authority is authorized to fix and to revise from time to time fees, rentals, and other charges for the use of each project and for the services and facilities furnished by the same and to charge and collect the same and to lease and to make contracts with any person, firm, or corporation with respect to the use of any project or part thereof. Such rentals and other charges shall be so fixed and adjusted in respect of the aggregate thereof from the project or projects for which a single issue of revenue bonds is issued or from the authority or the terminal or facilities of which the project or projects are a part, so as to provide a fund sufficient with other revenues of the project or projects, if any, to pay:

(1) The cost of new construction of projects;

(1) The cost of new construction of projects;

(2) The cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project or projects, including reserves for extraordinary repairs and insurance and other reserves required by the resolution or trust indenture, unless such cost shall be otherwise provided for; and

(2) The cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project or projects, including reserves for extraordinary repairs and insurance and other reserves required by the resolution or trust indenture, unless such cost shall be otherwise provided for; and

(3) The principal of the revenue bonds and the interest thereon as the same shall become due.

(3) The principal of the revenue bonds and the interest thereon as the same shall become due.

(b) The revenues and earnings derived from the projects for which a single issue of bonds is issued or from the authority or the terminal or facilities of which the project or projects are a part, except the part of such revenues and earnings as may be required to pay the cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project or projects or the terminal or facilities of which the project or projects are a part, and to provide such reserves therefor as may be provided for in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the revenue bonds or in the trust indenture, shall be set aside at such regular intervals as may be provided in the resolution or the trust indenture in a sinking fund which is pledged to, and charged with the payment of: (1) The interest upon the revenue bonds as the interest falls due; (2) The principal of the bonds as the same falls due; (3) The necessary charges of paying agents for paying principal and interest; and (4) Any premium upon bonds retired by call or purchase as hereinabove provided. The use and disposition of such sinking fund shall be subject to such regulations as may be provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the revenue bonds or in the trust indenture, but, except as may otherwise be provided in the resolution or trust indenture, the sinking fund shall be a fund for the benefit of all revenue bonds without distinction or priority of one over another. Subject to the provisions of the resolution authorizing the issuance of the revenue bonds or the trust indenture, any moneys in such sinking fund in excess of an amount equal to one year's interest on all revenue bonds then outstanding may be applied to the purchase or redemption of bonds. All revenue bonds so purchased or redeemed shall forthwith be canceled and shall not again be issued.

(b) The revenues and earnings derived from the projects for which a single issue of bonds is issued or from the authority or the terminal or facilities of which the project or projects are a part, except the part of such revenues and earnings as may be required to pay the cost of maintaining, repairing, and operating the project or projects or the terminal or facilities of which the project or projects are a part, and to provide such reserves therefor as may be provided for in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the revenue bonds or in the trust indenture, shall be set aside at such regular intervals as may be provided in the resolution or the trust indenture in a sinking fund which is pledged to, and charged with the payment of:

(1) The interest upon the revenue bonds as the interest falls due;

(1) The interest upon the revenue bonds as the interest falls due;

(2) The principal of the bonds as the same falls due;

(2) The principal of the bonds as the same falls due;

(3) The necessary charges of paying agents for paying principal and interest; and

(3) The necessary charges of paying agents for paying principal and interest; and

(4) Any premium upon bonds retired by call or purchase as hereinabove provided.

(4) Any premium upon bonds retired by call or purchase as hereinabove provided.

The use and disposition of such sinking fund shall be subject to such regulations as may be provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the revenue bonds or in the trust indenture, but, except as may otherwise be provided in the resolution or trust indenture, the sinking fund shall be a fund for the benefit of all revenue bonds without distinction or priority of one over another. Subject to the provisions of the resolution authorizing the issuance of the revenue bonds or the trust indenture, any moneys in such sinking fund in excess of an amount equal to one year's interest on all revenue bonds then outstanding may be applied to the purchase or redemption of bonds. All revenue bonds so purchased or redeemed shall forthwith be canceled and shall not again be issued.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-77 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-77
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-77
Status: in_force

The clerk of the court shall retain the remaining balance of the proceeds of a sale conducted under Code Section 52-7-75 , after satisfaction of liens, security interests, and debts, for a period of 12 months; and, if no claim has been filed against such proceeds by the owner of the abandoned vessel or any interested party, then he shall pay such remaining balance as follows:

(1) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien other than at the request of a peace officer, the proceeds of the sale shall be divided equally and paid into the general fund of the county in which the sale was made and into the general fund of the municipality, if any, in which the sale was made;

(1) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien other than at the request of a peace officer, the proceeds of the sale shall be divided equally and paid into the general fund of the county in which the sale was made and into the general fund of the municipality, if any, in which the sale was made;

(2) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien at the request of a police officer of a municipality, the proceeds of the sale shall be paid into the general fund of the municipality;

(2) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien at the request of a police officer of a municipality, the proceeds of the sale shall be paid into the general fund of the municipality;

(3) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien at the request of a county sheriff, deputy sheriff, or county police officer, the proceeds of the sale shall be paid into the general fund of the county in which the sale was made; or

(3) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien at the request of a county sheriff, deputy sheriff, or county police officer, the proceeds of the sale shall be paid into the general fund of the county in which the sale was made; or

(4) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien at the request of a member of the Georgia State Patrol or other employee of the State of Georgia, the proceeds of the sale shall be paid into the general fund of the county in which the sale was made.

(4) If the abandoned vessel came into the possession of the person creating the lien at the request of a member of the Georgia State Patrol or other employee of the State of Georgia, the proceeds of the sale shall be paid into the general fund of the county in which the sale was made.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-3
Status: in_force

As used in this article, the term:

(1) “Board” means the Board of Natural Resources.

(1) “Board” means the Board of Natural Resources.

(2) “Commissioner” means the commissioner of natural resources.

(2) “Commissioner” means the commissioner of natural resources.

(3) “ Structure ” means any structure located upon any tidewaters of this state, whether such structure is floating upon such tidewaters and is made fast by the use of lines, cables, anchors, or pilings, or any combination thereof, or is built upon pilings embedded in the beds of such tidewaters when such structure is being or has been used or is capable of being used as a place of habitation, dwelling, sojournment, or residence for any length of time; is not being used or is not capable of being used as a means of transportation upon such tidewaters; and is not owned, occupied, or possessed pursuant to a permit issued by the commissioner pursuant to Code Section 52-1-10 . Such structures may include, but are not limited to, vessels not being used in navigation; provided, however, that structures do not include live-aboard vessels, as defined in Code Section 52-7-8.4 . Structures shall also not include fishing camps, bait shops, restaurants, or other commercial establishments permitted under Part 4 of Article 4 of Chapter 5 of Title 12, the “Coastal Marshlands Protection Act of 1970,” as amended, which do not discharge sewage into the waters of this state and are operated in conformance with the zoning ordinances, if any, of the municipality or county in which they are located.

(3) “ Structure ” means any structure located upon any tidewaters of this state, whether such structure is floating upon such tidewaters and is made fast by the use of lines, cables, anchors, or pilings, or any combination thereof, or is built upon pilings embedded in the beds of such tidewaters when such structure is being or has been used or is capable of being used as a place of habitation, dwelling, sojournment, or residence for any length of time; is not being used or is not capable of being used as a means of transportation upon such tidewaters; and is not owned, occupied, or possessed pursuant to a permit issued by the commissioner pursuant to Code Section 52-1-10 . Such structures may include, but are not limited to, vessels not being used in navigation; provided, however, that structures do not include live-aboard vessels, as defined in Code Section 52-7-8.4 . Structures shall also not include fishing camps, bait shops, restaurants, or other commercial establishments permitted under Part 4 of Article 4 of Chapter 5 of Title 12, the “Coastal Marshlands Protection Act of 1970,” as amended, which do not discharge sewage into the waters of this state and are operated in conformance with the zoning ordinances, if any, of the municipality or county in which they are located.

(4) “Tidewaters” means the sea and all rivers and arms of the sea that are affected by the tide, where the tide rises and falls, which are capable of use for fishing, passage, navigation, commerce, or transportation, and which are located within the jurisdiction of the State of Georgia.

(4) “Tidewaters” means the sea and all rivers and arms of the sea that are affected by the tide, where the tide rises and falls, which are capable of use for fishing, passage, navigation, commerce, or transportation, and which are located within the jurisdiction of the State of Georgia.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-41 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-41
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-41
Status: in_force

When the person whose attendance is required as a witness is a nonresident of the county where the matter or claim is pending or is a seaman, his interrogatories or depositions may be taken and returned to the commissioners in the manner provided by law for taking and returning interrogatories and depositions in the courts of record of this state and may be put in evidence before the commissioners when the personal attendance of the witness cannot be secured. Reasonable notice of intention to take the interrogatories or depositions and of the time and place of the hearing must be given to all persons interested, or to their attorneys, or to the master, agent, or charterer of any vessel, where the vessel or her owners or cargo are interested.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-13 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-13
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-13
Status: in_force

(a)(1) The following are established as boating safety zones from May 1 through the following September 30: (A) The ocean waters adjacent to Jekyll Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Jekyll Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Jekyll Island; (B) The ocean waters adjacent to Tybee Island Beach, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Tybee Island Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Tybee Island Beach; (C) The ocean waters adjacent to Saint Simons Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Saint Simons Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Saint Simons Island; and (D) The ocean waters adjacent to Sea Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Sea Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Sea Island. (2) The following are established as boating safety zones at all times of the year: (A) The area within the marked boundary of any designated swimming area; and (B) The area within the marked boundary upstream or downstream of any dam designated by the commissioner. (3) The following are established as boating safety zones for the purpose of ensuring maritime and homeland security: (A) All those waters within the Elba Island liquefied natural gas mooring slip; provided, however, that liquefied natural gas tank ships and authorized vessels actively engaged in the escort, maneuvering, or support of such ships shall be permitted in such zone; (B) The area within 100 yards of any United States navy vessel; and (C) The area within 100 yards of any vessel escorted to, from, or within any port of this state by a law enforcement vessel displaying applicable law enforcement agency markings, whether such escorted vessel is in motion or anchored or moored.

(a)(1) The following are established as boating safety zones from May 1 through the following September 30: (A) The ocean waters adjacent to Jekyll Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Jekyll Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Jekyll Island; (B) The ocean waters adjacent to Tybee Island Beach, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Tybee Island Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Tybee Island Beach; (C) The ocean waters adjacent to Saint Simons Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Saint Simons Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Saint Simons Island; and (D) The ocean waters adjacent to Sea Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Sea Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Sea Island.

(a)(1) The following are established as boating safety zones from May 1 through the following September 30:

(A) The ocean waters adjacent to Jekyll Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Jekyll Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Jekyll Island;

(A) The ocean waters adjacent to Jekyll Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Jekyll Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Jekyll Island;

(B) The ocean waters adjacent to Tybee Island Beach, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Tybee Island Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Tybee Island Beach;

(B) The ocean waters adjacent to Tybee Island Beach, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Tybee Island Beach from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Tybee Island Beach;

(C) The ocean waters adjacent to Saint Simons Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Saint Simons Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Saint Simons Island; and

(C) The ocean waters adjacent to Saint Simons Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Saint Simons Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Saint Simons Island; and

(D) The ocean waters adjacent to Sea Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Sea Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Sea Island.

(D) The ocean waters adjacent to Sea Island, which shall include all those waters for a distance of 1,000 feet from the high-water mark on Sea Island from the northernmost point to the southernmost point of Sea Island.

(2) The following are established as boating safety zones at all times of the year: (A) The area within the marked boundary of any designated swimming area; and (B) The area within the marked boundary upstream or downstream of any dam designated by the commissioner.

(2) The following are established as boating safety zones at all times of the year:

(A) The area within the marked boundary of any designated swimming area; and

(A) The area within the marked boundary of any designated swimming area; and

(B) The area within the marked boundary upstream or downstream of any dam designated by the commissioner.

(B) The area within the marked boundary upstream or downstream of any dam designated by the commissioner.

(3) The following are established as boating safety zones for the purpose of ensuring maritime and homeland security: (A) All those waters within the Elba Island liquefied natural gas mooring slip; provided, however, that liquefied natural gas tank ships and authorized vessels actively engaged in the escort, maneuvering, or support of such ships shall be permitted in such zone; (B) The area within 100 yards of any United States navy vessel; and (C) The area within 100 yards of any vessel escorted to, from, or within any port of this state by a law enforcement vessel displaying applicable law enforcement agency markings, whether such escorted vessel is in motion or anchored or moored.

(3) The following are established as boating safety zones for the purpose of ensuring maritime and homeland security:

(A) All those waters within the Elba Island liquefied natural gas mooring slip; provided, however, that liquefied natural gas tank ships and authorized vessels actively engaged in the escort, maneuvering, or support of such ships shall be permitted in such zone;

(A) All those waters within the Elba Island liquefied natural gas mooring slip; provided, however, that liquefied natural gas tank ships and authorized vessels actively engaged in the escort, maneuvering, or support of such ships shall be permitted in such zone;

(B) The area within 100 yards of any United States navy vessel; and

(B) The area within 100 yards of any United States navy vessel; and

(C) The area within 100 yards of any vessel escorted to, from, or within any port of this state by a law enforcement vessel displaying applicable law enforcement agency markings, whether such escorted vessel is in motion or anchored or moored.

(C) The area within 100 yards of any vessel escorted to, from, or within any port of this state by a law enforcement vessel displaying applicable law enforcement agency markings, whether such escorted vessel is in motion or anchored or moored.

(b) Except for lifesaving, emergency, law enforcement, or dam operation and maintenance craft, it shall be unlawful to launch, float, or operate: (1) Any power boat within the boundaries of those boating safety zones defined in subsection (a) of this Code section; or (2) Any vessel within the boundaries of those boating safety zones defined in subparagraphs (a)(2)(A) and (a)(2)(B) of this Code section, provided such zones are marked in accordance with the uniform waterway marking system.

(b) Except for lifesaving, emergency, law enforcement, or dam operation and maintenance craft, it shall be unlawful to launch, float, or operate:

(1) Any power boat within the boundaries of those boating safety zones defined in subsection (a) of this Code section; or

(1) Any power boat within the boundaries of those boating safety zones defined in subsection (a) of this Code section; or

(2) Any vessel within the boundaries of those boating safety zones defined in subparagraphs (a)(2)(A) and (a)(2)(B) of this Code section, provided such zones are marked in accordance with the uniform waterway marking system.

(2) Any vessel within the boundaries of those boating safety zones defined in subparagraphs (a)(2)(A) and (a)(2)(B) of this Code section, provided such zones are marked in accordance with the uniform waterway marking system.

(c) With the exception of law enforcement crafts, no motor in excess of 9.9 horsepower shall be used on any vessel being operated on the Ogeechee River from the point where it crosses State Highway No. 119 to its point of origin.

(c) With the exception of law enforcement crafts, no motor in excess of 9.9 horsepower shall be used on any vessel being operated on the Ogeechee River from the point where it crosses State Highway No. 119 to its point of origin.

(d) The operation of any vessel, specifically including a houseboat, with a marine toilet, galley, or sleeping quarters shall be prohibited on Lake Burton, Bull Sluice Lake, Goat Rock Lake, Lake Harding, Lake Jackson, North Highlands Lake, Lake Oliver, Lake Rabun, Seed Lake, Tallulah Falls Lake, Tugalo Lake, Lake Oconee, and Yonah Lake.

(d) The operation of any vessel, specifically including a houseboat, with a marine toilet, galley, or sleeping quarters shall be prohibited on Lake Burton, Bull Sluice Lake, Goat Rock Lake, Lake Harding, Lake Jackson, North Highlands Lake, Lake Oliver, Lake Rabun, Seed Lake, Tallulah Falls Lake, Tugalo Lake, Lake Oconee, and Yonah Lake.

(e)(1) No person shall operate or use any vessel within an area designated and appropriately marked as a “hazardous area” unless each person aboard such vessel is wearing a United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation device, which device is designated as a Type I, Type II, Type III, or Type V device. Such device must be properly fastened, in good and serviceable condition, and the proper size for the person wearing the device. (2) The provisions of this subsection shall not affect regulations promulgated by any agency of the federal government related to activities that may or may not be conducted within designated hazardous areas which are located within the jurisdiction of such agency.

(e)(1) No person shall operate or use any vessel within an area designated and appropriately marked as a “hazardous area” unless each person aboard such vessel is wearing a United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation device, which device is designated as a Type I, Type II, Type III, or Type V device. Such device must be properly fastened, in good and serviceable condition, and the proper size for the person wearing the device.

(e)(1) No person shall operate or use any vessel within an area designated and appropriately marked as a “hazardous area” unless each person aboard such vessel is wearing a United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation device, which device is designated as a Type I, Type II, Type III, or Type V device. Such device must be properly fastened, in good and serviceable condition, and the proper size for the person wearing the device.

(2) The provisions of this subsection shall not affect regulations promulgated by any agency of the federal government related to activities that may or may not be conducted within designated hazardous areas which are located within the jurisdiction of such agency.

(2) The provisions of this subsection shall not affect regulations promulgated by any agency of the federal government related to activities that may or may not be conducted within designated hazardous areas which are located within the jurisdiction of such agency.

(f) With the exception of law enforcement or scientific research or dam operation and maintenance craft, no motor in excess of 25 horsepower shall be used on any vessel being operated on Tugalo Lake.

(f) With the exception of law enforcement or scientific research or dam operation and maintenance craft, no motor in excess of 25 horsepower shall be used on any vessel being operated on Tugalo Lake.

(g) The operation of any of the following vessels on Lake Oconee shall be prohibited: (1) Any motorized vessel greater than 30 feet six inches in length; provided, however, that this paragraph shall not apply to: (A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or (B) A vessel not greater than 40 feet in length used for conducting group tours on behalf of the owner or operator of a REAP certified by the Department of Community Affairs under Code Section 50-8-192 if the same vessel was lawfully operated on the lake by such REAP owner or operator under former provisions of this paragraph as such existed immediately prior to May 29, 2007; in addition, such vessel may be replaced by the same REAP owner or operator but only by one vessel at a time and only if each such predecessor vessel has been retired from lawfully operating on the lake and the replacement vessel does not exceed 40 feet in length; or (2) Any vessel equipped with any type of bypass mechanism that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of the muffler or baffler system required by Code Section 52-7-10 .

(g) The operation of any of the following vessels on Lake Oconee shall be prohibited:

(1) Any motorized vessel greater than 30 feet six inches in length; provided, however, that this paragraph shall not apply to: (A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or (B) A vessel not greater than 40 feet in length used for conducting group tours on behalf of the owner or operator of a REAP certified by the Department of Community Affairs under Code Section 50-8-192 if the same vessel was lawfully operated on the lake by such REAP owner or operator under former provisions of this paragraph as such existed immediately prior to May 29, 2007; in addition, such vessel may be replaced by the same REAP owner or operator but only by one vessel at a time and only if each such predecessor vessel has been retired from lawfully operating on the lake and the replacement vessel does not exceed 40 feet in length; or

(1) Any motorized vessel greater than 30 feet six inches in length; provided, however, that this paragraph shall not apply to:

(A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or

(A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or

(B) A vessel not greater than 40 feet in length used for conducting group tours on behalf of the owner or operator of a REAP certified by the Department of Community Affairs under Code Section 50-8-192 if the same vessel was lawfully operated on the lake by such REAP owner or operator under former provisions of this paragraph as such existed immediately prior to May 29, 2007; in addition, such vessel may be replaced by the same REAP owner or operator but only by one vessel at a time and only if each such predecessor vessel has been retired from lawfully operating on the lake and the replacement vessel does not exceed 40 feet in length; or

(B) A vessel not greater than 40 feet in length used for conducting group tours on behalf of the owner or operator of a REAP certified by the Department of Community Affairs under Code Section 50-8-192 if the same vessel was lawfully operated on the lake by such REAP owner or operator under former provisions of this paragraph as such existed immediately prior to May 29, 2007; in addition, such vessel may be replaced by the same REAP owner or operator but only by one vessel at a time and only if each such predecessor vessel has been retired from lawfully operating on the lake and the replacement vessel does not exceed 40 feet in length; or

(2) Any vessel equipped with any type of bypass mechanism that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of the muffler or baffler system required by Code Section 52-7-10 .

(2) Any vessel equipped with any type of bypass mechanism that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of the muffler or baffler system required by Code Section 52-7-10 .

(h) The operation of any of the following vessels on Lake Burton, Seed Lake, Lake Rabun, Lake Tugalo, Tallulah Falls Lake, Lake Sinclair, and Lake Yonah shall be prohibited: (1) Any motorized vessel greater than 30 feet six inches in length; except for: (A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or (B) Any vessel that was lawfully operated on Lake Sinclair immediately prior to May 20, 2010, and was as of such date included on the tax roll of any county within which any part of such lake lies; or (2) Any vessel equipped with any type of bypass mechanism that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of the muffler or baffler system required by Code Section 52-7-10 .

(h) The operation of any of the following vessels on Lake Burton, Seed Lake, Lake Rabun, Lake Tugalo, Tallulah Falls Lake, Lake Sinclair, and Lake Yonah shall be prohibited:

(1) Any motorized vessel greater than 30 feet six inches in length; except for: (A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or (B) Any vessel that was lawfully operated on Lake Sinclair immediately prior to May 20, 2010, and was as of such date included on the tax roll of any county within which any part of such lake lies; or

(1) Any motorized vessel greater than 30 feet six inches in length; except for:

(A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or

(A) Law enforcement, scientific research, or dam operation and maintenance craft; or

(B) Any vessel that was lawfully operated on Lake Sinclair immediately prior to May 20, 2010, and was as of such date included on the tax roll of any county within which any part of such lake lies; or

(B) Any vessel that was lawfully operated on Lake Sinclair immediately prior to May 20, 2010, and was as of such date included on the tax roll of any county within which any part of such lake lies; or

(2) Any vessel equipped with any type of bypass mechanism that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of the muffler or baffler system required by Code Section 52-7-10 .

(2) Any vessel equipped with any type of bypass mechanism that reduces or eliminates the effectiveness of the muffler or baffler system required by Code Section 52-7-10 .

(i) The provisions of this Code section shall not apply to vessels engaged in any activity authorized under Code Section 52-7-19 .

(i) The provisions of this Code section shall not apply to vessels engaged in any activity authorized under Code Section 52-7-19 .
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-76 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-76
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-76
Status: in_force

The purchaser at a sale as authorized in this article shall receive a certified copy of the court order authorizing such sale. Any such purchaser may obtain a certificate of title to such vessel by filing the required application, paying the required fees, and filing a certified copy of the order of the court with the Department of Natural Resources. The Department of Natural Resources shall then issue a certificate of title, which shall be free and clear of all liens and encumbrances.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-8-2 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-8-2
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-8.2
Status: reserved

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Accompanied by ” means in the physical presence within the vessel of a person who is not under the influence of alcohol, toxic vapors, or drugs to a degree which would constitute a violation of Code Section 52-7-12 were such person operating the vessel. (2) “ Personal watercraft ” means a Class A vessel which: (A) Has an outboard motor or which has an inboard motor which uses an internal combustion engine powering a water jet pump as its primary source of motive propulsion; (B) Is designed with the concept that the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of such vessel as opposed to riding inside such vessel; and (C) Has the probability that the operator and passenger may, in the normal course of use, fall overboard. Such term includes, without limitation, any vessel where the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of the vessel, even if the primary source of motive propulsion is a propeller, and any vessel commonly known as a “jet ski.”

(a) As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) “ Accompanied by ” means in the physical presence within the vessel of a person who is not under the influence of alcohol, toxic vapors, or drugs to a degree which would constitute a violation of Code Section 52-7-12 were such person operating the vessel.

(1) “ Accompanied by ” means in the physical presence within the vessel of a person who is not under the influence of alcohol, toxic vapors, or drugs to a degree which would constitute a violation of Code Section 52-7-12 were such person operating the vessel.

(2) “ Personal watercraft ” means a Class A vessel which: (A) Has an outboard motor or which has an inboard motor which uses an internal combustion engine powering a water jet pump as its primary source of motive propulsion; (B) Is designed with the concept that the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of such vessel as opposed to riding inside such vessel; and (C) Has the probability that the operator and passenger may, in the normal course of use, fall overboard. Such term includes, without limitation, any vessel where the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of the vessel, even if the primary source of motive propulsion is a propeller, and any vessel commonly known as a “jet ski.”

(2) “ Personal watercraft ” means a Class A vessel which:

(A) Has an outboard motor or which has an inboard motor which uses an internal combustion engine powering a water jet pump as its primary source of motive propulsion;

(A) Has an outboard motor or which has an inboard motor which uses an internal combustion engine powering a water jet pump as its primary source of motive propulsion;

(B) Is designed with the concept that the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of such vessel as opposed to riding inside such vessel; and

(B) Is designed with the concept that the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of such vessel as opposed to riding inside such vessel; and

(C) Has the probability that the operator and passenger may, in the normal course of use, fall overboard. Such term includes, without limitation, any vessel where the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of the vessel, even if the primary source of motive propulsion is a propeller, and any vessel commonly known as a “jet ski.”

(C) Has the probability that the operator and passenger may, in the normal course of use, fall overboard.

Such term includes, without limitation, any vessel where the operator and passenger ride on the outside surfaces of the vessel, even if the primary source of motive propulsion is a propeller, and any vessel commonly known as a “jet ski.”

(b) No person shall operate or give permission to operate personal watercraft on the waters of this state unless each person aboard such personal watercraft is wearing a United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation device, Type I, Type II, Type III, or Type V. Each such personal flotation device must be properly fastened, in good and serviceable condition, and the proper size for the person wearing it.

(b) No person shall operate or give permission to operate personal watercraft on the waters of this state unless each person aboard such personal watercraft is wearing a United States Coast Guard approved personal flotation device, Type I, Type II, Type III, or Type V. Each such personal flotation device must be properly fastened, in good and serviceable condition, and the proper size for the person wearing it.

(c) Reserved.

(c) Reserved.

(d) No person shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state after sunset or before sunrise unless such person is engaged in the enforcement of the laws of this state or this nation.

(d) No person shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state after sunset or before sunrise unless such person is engaged in the enforcement of the laws of this state or this nation.

(e) No person shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state unless such personal watercraft is equipped with a self-circling device or a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch.

(e) No person shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state unless such personal watercraft is equipped with a self-circling device or a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch.

(f) No person shall operate on the waters of this state a personal watercraft which has been equipped by the manufacturer with a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch unless the lanyard and the switch are operational and unless the lanyard is attached to the operator, the operator's clothing, or a personal flotation device worn by the operator.

(f) No person shall operate on the waters of this state a personal watercraft which has been equipped by the manufacturer with a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch unless the lanyard and the switch are operational and unless the lanyard is attached to the operator, the operator's clothing, or a personal flotation device worn by the operator.

(g) No person shall operate on the waters of this state a personal watercraft which has been equipped by the manufacturer with a self-circling device if the self-circling device or the engine throttle has been altered in any way that would prohibit the self-circling device from operating in its intended manner.

(g) No person shall operate on the waters of this state a personal watercraft which has been equipped by the manufacturer with a self-circling device if the self-circling device or the engine throttle has been altered in any way that would prohibit the self-circling device from operating in its intended manner.

(h) It shall be unlawful for any person who owns a personal watercraft or who has charge over or control of a personal watercraft to authorize or knowingly to permit such personal watercraft to be operated in violation of this Code section or of Code Section 52-7-8.3 .

(h) It shall be unlawful for any person who owns a personal watercraft or who has charge over or control of a personal watercraft to authorize or knowingly to permit such personal watercraft to be operated in violation of this Code section or of Code Section 52-7-8.3 .

(i) The provisions of this Code section shall not apply to vessels engaged in any activity authorized under Code Section 52-7-19 .

(i) The provisions of this Code section shall not apply to vessels engaged in any activity authorized under Code Section 52-7-19 .

(j) No person shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state at a speed greater than idle speed within 100 feet of any moored or anchored vessel, any vessel adrift, or any wharf, dock, pier, piling, bridge structure or abutment, person in the water, or shoreline adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area.

(j) No person shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state at a speed greater than idle speed within 100 feet of any moored or anchored vessel, any vessel adrift, or any wharf, dock, pier, piling, bridge structure or abutment, person in the water, or shoreline adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area.

(k) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state while towing a person or persons on water skis, aquaplanes, surfboards, tubes, or any similar device; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any personal watercraft designed by the manufacturer to carry three or more persons, provided that such personal watercraft has on board a competent observer in addition to the operator at any time that a person is being towed.

(k) It shall be unlawful for any person to operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state while towing a person or persons on water skis, aquaplanes, surfboards, tubes, or any similar device; provided, however, that the provisions of this subsection shall not apply to any personal watercraft designed by the manufacturer to carry three or more persons, provided that such personal watercraft has on board a competent observer in addition to the operator at any time that a person is being towed.

(l) No person under the age of 16 years shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state; provided, however, that a person 12 through 15 years of age may operate a personal watercraft if he or she is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older or he or she has successfully completed a boating education course approved by the department. The department may conduct or provide boating education courses to the public.

(l) No person under the age of 16 years shall operate a personal watercraft on the waters of this state; provided, however, that a person 12 through 15 years of age may operate a personal watercraft if he or she is accompanied by an adult 18 years of age or older or he or she has successfully completed a boating education course approved by the department. The department may conduct or provide boating education courses to the public.

(m) It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or knowingly permit such person's child or ward who is less than 12 years of age or the child or ward of another over whom such person has a permanent or temporary responsibility of supervision if such child or ward is less than 12 years of age to operate a personal watercraft.

(m) It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or knowingly permit such person's child or ward who is less than 12 years of age or the child or ward of another over whom such person has a permanent or temporary responsibility of supervision if such child or ward is less than 12 years of age to operate a personal watercraft.

(n) It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or knowingly permit such person's child or ward who is age 12 through 15 years or the child or ward of another over whom such person has a permanent or temporary responsibility of supervision if such child or ward is age 12 through 15 years to operate a personal watercraft other than in compliance with the provisions of subsection (l) of this Code section.

(n) It shall be unlawful for any person to cause or knowingly permit such person's child or ward who is age 12 through 15 years or the child or ward of another over whom such person has a permanent or temporary responsibility of supervision if such child or ward is age 12 through 15 years to operate a personal watercraft other than in compliance with the provisions of subsection (l) of this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-18 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-18
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-18
Status: in_force

All revenue bonds issued under this chapter shall have and are declared to have all the qualities and incidents of negotiable instruments under the negotiable instruments laws of the state. Such bonds and the income therefrom shall be exempt from all taxation within the state.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-26 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-26
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-26
Status: in_force

Any holder of revenue bonds issued under this chapter or any of the coupons appertaining thereto and the trustee under the trust indenture, if any, except to the extent the rights given in this chapter may be restricted by resolution passed before the issuance of the bonds or by the trust indenture, may, either at law or in equity, by suit, action, mandamus, or other proceedings, protect and enforce any and all rights granted under the laws of this state, granted under this chapter, or granted under such resolution or trust indenture, and may enforce and compel performance of all duties required by this chapter or by such resolution or trust indenture to be performed by the authority, or any officer thereof, including the fixing, charging, and collecting of revenues and other charges for the use of the project or projects; but no holder of any such bond shall have the right to compel any exercise of the taxing power of the state to pay any such bond or the interest thereon or to enforce the payment thereof against any property of the state nor shall any such bond constitute a charge, lien, or encumbrance, legal or equitable, upon any property of the state. Any provision of this chapter or any other law to the contrary notwithstanding, any such bondholder or trustee shall have the right by appropriate legal or equitable proceedings (including, without being limited to, mandamus) to enforce compliance by the appropriate public officials with Article VII, Section IV of the Constitution of the State of Georgia and permission is given for the institution of any such proceedings to compel the payment of lease obligations.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-43 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-43
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-43
Status: in_force

In cases of appeal, testimony for use in the superior court may be taken and returned by interrogatories or depositions, under the circumstances and in the manner provided by law for the taking and returning of testimony in cases pending in the superior courts of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-24 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-24
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-24
Status: in_force

Revenue bonds issued under this chapter shall not be deemed to constitute a debt of the State of Georgia or a pledge of the faith and credit of the state, but such bonds shall be payable solely from the fund provided in this chapter therefor from earnings. The issuance of such revenue bonds shall not directly or indirectly or contingently obligate the state to levy or to pledge any form of taxation whatever therefor from earnings; and the issuance of such revenue bonds shall not directly or indirectly or contingently obligate the state to levy or to pledge any form of taxation whatever therefor or to make any appropriation for their payment. Neither the state nor the authority shall be obligated to pay the principal of or the interest on such revenue bonds except from earnings of the project or projects for which they shall be issued. All such revenue bonds shall contain recitals on their face covering the foregoing provisions of this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 52-5-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 5 / Section 52-5-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-5-3
Status: in_force

When the petition shall have been filed with the Secretary of State, he shall issue to the company, under the great seal of the state, the following form of certificate:

“To all to whom these presents may come--Greetings:

Whereas, in pursuance of an Act of the General Assembly of Georgia, approved December 6, 1894, and (naming the persons who signed the petition) having filed in the office of the Secretary of State a certain petition seeking the formation of a corporation to be known as (here insert corporate name), with a capital stock of $ _____, for the purpose of owning, constructing, equipping, maintaining, and operating vessels, steamboats, and all other watercraft to be engaged in navigation, and having complied with the statutes in such cases made and provided; therefore, the State of Georgia hereby grants unto the above-named persons, their successors, and assigns full authority, by and under the said name of _____, to exercise the powers and privileges of a corporation for the purposes above-stated, subject to the Constitution of this state and all laws governing such navigation companies of force at the date of the granting of this certificate or that may hereafter become of force, either by constitutional or statute law.

In witness whereof, these presents have been signed by the Secretary of State, and to which is annexed the great seal of the State of Georgia, at Atlanta, Georgia, this _____ day of _____, _____.”
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-22 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-22
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-22
Status: in_force

(a) The department shall establish a comprehensive boating education program and may seek the cooperation of boatmen, the federal government, and other states. The department may accept moneys made available under federal safety programs and may issue boating certificates to persons who complete courses in boating education.

(a) The department shall establish a comprehensive boating education program and may seek the cooperation of boatmen, the federal government, and other states. The department may accept moneys made available under federal safety programs and may issue boating certificates to persons who complete courses in boating education.

(b) Effective July 1, 2014, and except as otherwise provided by this chapter, anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, who operates any motorized vessel on the waters of this state shall complete a boating education course approved by the department prior to the operation of such vessel.

(b) Effective July 1, 2014, and except as otherwise provided by this chapter, anyone born on or after January 1, 1998, who operates any motorized vessel on the waters of this state shall complete a boating education course approved by the department prior to the operation of such vessel.

(c) A person shall be exempt from the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section if he or she is: (1) Licensed by the United States Coast Guard as a master of a vessel; (2) Operating such vessel on a private lake or pond; or (3) A nonresident who has in his or her possession proof that he or she has completed a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators approved boater education course or the equivalency from another state.

(c) A person shall be exempt from the provisions of subsection (b) of this Code section if he or she is:

(1) Licensed by the United States Coast Guard as a master of a vessel;

(1) Licensed by the United States Coast Guard as a master of a vessel;

(2) Operating such vessel on a private lake or pond; or

(2) Operating such vessel on a private lake or pond; or

(3) A nonresident who has in his or her possession proof that he or she has completed a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators approved boater education course or the equivalency from another state.

(3) A nonresident who has in his or her possession proof that he or she has completed a National Association of State Boating Law Administrators approved boater education course or the equivalency from another state.