O.C.G.A. § 52-7-11 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-11
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-11
Status: in_force

(a) Categories. Requirements for lights on vessels operated within this state fall into two categories: regulations for vessels using inland waters (waters of this state) and regulations for vessels using international waters (coastal waters). Vessels equipped to meet international waters requirements may operate on any waters; however, vessels equipped to meet inland waters requirements are restricted to inland waters.

(a) Categories. Requirements for lights on vessels operated within this state fall into two categories: regulations for vessels using inland waters (waters of this state) and regulations for vessels using international waters (coastal waters). Vessels equipped to meet international waters requirements may operate on any waters; however, vessels equipped to meet inland waters requirements are restricted to inland waters.

(b) Inland waters (waters within the state) requirements. (1) All nonmotorized vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall have ready at hand a white light which shall be displayed in time to prevent collision. (2) All motorized Class A and Class 1 vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 32 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or ten-point combination red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile and displayed lower than the white stern light. (3) All motorized Class 2 and 3 vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point white light on the bow visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 32 point white light on the stern fixed higher than the white light forward and visible for a distance of two miles, plus separate ten-point red and green side lights fitted with inboard screens to keep the lights from showing across the bow and visible for a distance of one mile. (4) Class A and Class 1 vessels equipped with sail only or sail and motor, when under sail only while being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility, shall display a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles. (5) Class 2 and Class 3 vessels equipped with sail only or sail and motor, when under sail only while being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility, shall display separate ten-point red and green side lights, properly screened and visible for a distance of at least one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of at least two miles. (6) When any vessel is being powered by sail and motor both, that vessel shall carry the same lights as those required for power alone.

(b) Inland waters (waters within the state) requirements.

(1) All nonmotorized vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall have ready at hand a white light which shall be displayed in time to prevent collision.

(1) All nonmotorized vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall have ready at hand a white light which shall be displayed in time to prevent collision.

(2) All motorized Class A and Class 1 vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 32 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or ten-point combination red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile and displayed lower than the white stern light.

(2) All motorized Class A and Class 1 vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 32 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or ten-point combination red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile and displayed lower than the white stern light.

(3) All motorized Class 2 and 3 vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point white light on the bow visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 32 point white light on the stern fixed higher than the white light forward and visible for a distance of two miles, plus separate ten-point red and green side lights fitted with inboard screens to keep the lights from showing across the bow and visible for a distance of one mile.

(3) All motorized Class 2 and 3 vessels being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point white light on the bow visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 32 point white light on the stern fixed higher than the white light forward and visible for a distance of two miles, plus separate ten-point red and green side lights fitted with inboard screens to keep the lights from showing across the bow and visible for a distance of one mile.

(4) Class A and Class 1 vessels equipped with sail only or sail and motor, when under sail only while being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility, shall display a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(4) Class A and Class 1 vessels equipped with sail only or sail and motor, when under sail only while being operated during hours of darkness or low visibility, shall display a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(5) Class 2 and Class 3 vessels equipped with sail only or sail and motor, when under sail only while being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility, shall display separate ten-point red and green side lights, properly screened and visible for a distance of at least one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of at least two miles.

(5) Class 2 and Class 3 vessels equipped with sail only or sail and motor, when under sail only while being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility, shall display separate ten-point red and green side lights, properly screened and visible for a distance of at least one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of at least two miles.

(6) When any vessel is being powered by sail and motor both, that vessel shall carry the same lights as those required for power alone.

(6) When any vessel is being powered by sail and motor both, that vessel shall carry the same lights as those required for power alone.

(c) International waters (coastal) requirements. (1) All motorized Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 vessels being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow, or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of at least one mile, plus a 20 point white light displayed in the fore part of the vessel and visible for a distance of three miles displayed three feet above the combination or side lights, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of at least two miles. (2) All motorized Class 3 vessels being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel displayed nine feet above the gunwales and three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of three miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for at least two miles. (3) All Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 vessels equipped with sail and motor being operated under power during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for one mile, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel at least three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of three miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles. (4) All Class 3 vessels equipped with sail and motor being operated under power during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel at least nine feet above the gunwale and three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles. (5) All sailboats of Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 being operated under sail only during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point combination red and green bow light visible for a distance of one mile, or ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles. (6) All sailboats of Class 3, being operated under sail only during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point combination red and green bow light visible for a distance of one mile, or ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles. (7) Sailing vessels may carry on top of the foremast two 20 point lights in a vertical line one over the other and separated so as to be clearly distinguished. The upper light shall be red and the lower light green.

(c) International waters (coastal) requirements.

(1) All motorized Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 vessels being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow, or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of at least one mile, plus a 20 point white light displayed in the fore part of the vessel and visible for a distance of three miles displayed three feet above the combination or side lights, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of at least two miles.

(1) All motorized Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 vessels being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow, or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of at least one mile, plus a 20 point white light displayed in the fore part of the vessel and visible for a distance of three miles displayed three feet above the combination or side lights, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of at least two miles.

(2) All motorized Class 3 vessels being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel displayed nine feet above the gunwales and three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of three miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for at least two miles.

(2) All motorized Class 3 vessels being operated during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel displayed nine feet above the gunwales and three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of three miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for at least two miles.

(3) All Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 vessels equipped with sail and motor being operated under power during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for one mile, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel at least three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of three miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(3) All Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 vessels equipped with sail and motor being operated under power during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for one mile, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel at least three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of three miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(4) All Class 3 vessels equipped with sail and motor being operated under power during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel at least nine feet above the gunwale and three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(4) All Class 3 vessels equipped with sail and motor being operated under power during hours of darkness or low visibility shall display either a 20 point combination red and green light on the bow or else ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 20 point white light in the fore part of the vessel at least nine feet above the gunwale and three feet higher than the colored lights and visible for a distance of two miles, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(5) All sailboats of Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 being operated under sail only during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point combination red and green bow light visible for a distance of one mile, or ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(5) All sailboats of Class A, Class 1, and Class 2 being operated under sail only during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point combination red and green bow light visible for a distance of one mile, or ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(6) All sailboats of Class 3, being operated under sail only during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point combination red and green bow light visible for a distance of one mile, or ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(6) All sailboats of Class 3, being operated under sail only during the hours of darkness or low visibility shall display a 20 point combination red and green bow light visible for a distance of one mile, or ten-point red and green side lights properly screened and visible for a distance of one mile, plus a 12 point white stern light visible for a distance of two miles.

(7) Sailing vessels may carry on top of the foremast two 20 point lights in a vertical line one over the other and separated so as to be clearly distinguished. The upper light shall be red and the lower light green.

(7) Sailing vessels may carry on top of the foremast two 20 point lights in a vertical line one over the other and separated so as to be clearly distinguished. The upper light shall be red and the lower light green.

(d) Vessels at anchor. All vessels at anchor, except those anchored or moored within marinas or other designated anchorages, shall display a 32 point white stern light during hours of darkness or low visibility.

(d) Vessels at anchor. All vessels at anchor, except those anchored or moored within marinas or other designated anchorages, shall display a 32 point white stern light during hours of darkness or low visibility.

(e) Other lights. During the hours of darkness or low visibility, no other lights which may be mistaken for those prescribed shall be exhibited.

(e) Other lights. During the hours of darkness or low visibility, no other lights which may be mistaken for those prescribed shall be exhibited.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-13-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-13-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-13.1
Status: in_force

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, no person shall engage in wakesurfing or wakeboarding upon waters of this state: (1) Between sunset and sunrise; (2) Within 200 feet of any moored vessel; any wharf, dock, pier, piling, or bridge structure or abutment; or any shoreline adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area; or (3) When surfing a wake or being towed on a board, without wearing a personal flotation device.

(a) Except as provided in subsection (b) of this Code section, no person shall engage in wakesurfing or wakeboarding upon waters of this state:

(1) Between sunset and sunrise;

(1) Between sunset and sunrise;

(2) Within 200 feet of any moored vessel; any wharf, dock, pier, piling, or bridge structure or abutment; or any shoreline adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area; or

(2) Within 200 feet of any moored vessel; any wharf, dock, pier, piling, or bridge structure or abutment; or any shoreline adjacent to a full-time or part-time residence, public park, public beach, public swimming area, marina, restaurant, or other public use area; or

(3) When surfing a wake or being towed on a board, without wearing a personal flotation device.

(3) When surfing a wake or being towed on a board, without wearing a personal flotation device.

(b) This Code section shall not apply to: (1) A regatta, boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition for which the commissioner has granted a marine event permit pursuant to Code Section 52-7-19 ; or (2) Intracoastal waterways, rivers, or private lakes.

(b) This Code section shall not apply to:

(1) A regatta, boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition for which the commissioner has granted a marine event permit pursuant to Code Section 52-7-19 ; or

(1) A regatta, boat race, marine parade, tournament, or exhibition for which the commissioner has granted a marine event permit pursuant to Code Section 52-7-19 ; or

(2) Intracoastal waterways, rivers, or private lakes.

(2) Intracoastal waterways, rivers, or private lakes.
O.C.G.A. § 52-5-7 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 5 / Section 52-5-7
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-5-7
Status: in_force

When the certificate has been issued, the persons named therein, in case they shall not have subscribed for the entire capital stock, may open books of subscription to complete the subscription to the capital stock of the company, in such manner and for such amount per share as they may deem proper and expedient, and may receive the subscriptions until the entire capital stock is subscribed. In no case shall the capital stock be increased except as provided in this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 52-3-8 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 3 / Section 52-3-8
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-3-8
Status: in_force

If any of the lands or property, the use of which is required for right of way and spoil disposal areas, shall have been leased by the Department of Natural Resources to any individual, firm, or corporation for the cultivation and gathering of oysters, the department is authorized and directed to substitute for such leased areas lying within the rights of way and spoil disposal areas other equal areas lying outside the rights of way and spoil disposal areas which are also suitable for the cultivation and gathering of oysters.
O.C.G.A. § 52-5-5 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 5 / Section 52-5-5
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-5-5
Status: in_force

Before the Secretary of State shall issue the certificate, he shall satisfy himself that all the requirements of Code Section 52-5-2 have been substantially complied with. Any certificate or duplicate thereof issued by the Secretary of State shall be conclusive evidence of the existence of such corporation in all the courts and places in this state and of a compliance with all the requirements of this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 52-3-9 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 3 / Section 52-3-9
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-3-9
Status: in_force

Any person, firm, or corporation or their heirs, executors, administrators, successors, or assigns who may be compensated for damages to oysters during construction of the intracoastal waterway shall be estopped from making further claims for damage to oysters in or upon the same area on account of dredging operations during maintenance of the intracoastal waterway.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-30 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-30
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-30
Status: in_force

Bonds of the authority shall be confirmed and validated in accordance with the procedure of Chapter 82 of Title 36, the “Revenue Bond Law.” Any such action and any action to protect or enforce any rights under this chapter and any suit or action against the authority shall be brought in the Superior Court of Chatham County, which shall have exclusive original jurisdiction of such actions; provided, however, that the venue of an action for a tort shall be brought in the county wherein committed if the authority has a facility located therein, otherwise Chatham County.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-10 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-10
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-10
Status: in_force

Any company incorporated under this chapter is authorized to enlarge any of the works or appliances of a canal or branch canals and enlarge a canal anywhere along the line of the same by deepening and widening it, making basins, dams, reservoirs, or otherwise. Any such company is also authorized to construct and build branch canals to and from a canal from any and all points, with the same privileges and rights as are granted in constructing the main canal and other works, and to construct any dams, races, waste-weirs, weirs, towpaths, and other structures to improve and make available a canal or canals under the limitations already set out in this chapter.
O.C.G.A. § 52-3-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 3 / Section 52-3-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-3-1
Status: in_force

It is the intent and purpose of this chapter to provide for the construction and maintenance by the United States government of the intracoastal waterway and its salt-water tributaries, hereinafter referred to as the intracoastal waterway, from the state boundary line in the Savannah River to the state boundary line in Cumberland Sound, as authorized by the Congress of the United States by the River and Harbor Act approved June 20, 1938, authorizing the construction of the intracoastal waterway to a depth of 12 feet from the Savannah River, Georgia, to Cumberland Sound, Georgia, in accordance with the project described in House Document No. 618, Seventy-fifth Congress, third session, and subject to the conditions set forth in said document, and by the River and Harbor Act approved August 26, 1937, authorizing the construction of a protected route as part of the intracoastal waterway, around St. Andrew Sound, Georgia, to a depth of seven feet in accordance with the project described in Senate Committee Print, Seventy-fourth Congress, first session, and subject to the conditions set forth in that document. The Governor and the Secretary of State are authorized to issue to the United States of America a grant or grants of a perpetual right and easement to enter upon, cut away, and remove any and all of the land, including submerged lands, composing a part of the channel rights of way, anchorage areas, and turning basins as may be required at any time for construction and maintenance of the intracoastal waterway and to maintain the portions excavated, thereby created as a part of the navigable waters of the United States. The Governor and the Secretary of State are authorized to issue to the United States of America a further perpetual right and easement to enter upon, occupy, and use any portion of the land, including submerged land, composing a part of the spoil disposal area not so cut away and converted into public navigable waters described in this Code section, for the deposit of dredged material and for such other purposes as may be needed in the construction, maintenance, and improvement of the intracoastal waterway, insofar as such lands, including submerged lands, are subject to grant by the State of Georgia. The grant is to be issued upon a certificate showing the location and description of the rights of way and spoil disposal areas furnished to the Governor by the secretary of the army or by any authorized officer of the Corps of Engineers of the United States Army or by any other authorized official exercising control over the construction or maintenance of the projects.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-12 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-12
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-12
Status: in_force

All companies incorporated as provided in this chapter may permit all goods, lumber, rafts of every description, vessels of every kind, and all other things that can be transported to be conveyed through their canals and may collect such tolls as they may deem proper therefor.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-5 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-5
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-5
Status: in_force

(a) The authority shall consist of 12 members to be appointed by the Governor from the state at large.

(a) The authority shall consist of 12 members to be appointed by the Governor from the state at large.

(b) The nine members of the authority in office immediately prior to May 1, 2000, shall serve out the remainder of the terms for which they were appointed, all of such terms expiring on June 30 of the year of expiration. In addition to said nine members, the Governor shall appoint three members for terms to expire June 30, 2004. The director of the Office of Planning and Budget or his or her designee as approved by the Governor shall serve as an ex officio member of the authority.

(b) The nine members of the authority in office immediately prior to May 1, 2000, shall serve out the remainder of the terms for which they were appointed, all of such terms expiring on June 30 of the year of expiration. In addition to said nine members, the Governor shall appoint three members for terms to expire June 30, 2004. The director of the Office of Planning and Budget or his or her designee as approved by the Governor shall serve as an ex officio member of the authority.

(c) Successors to the members referred to in subsection (b) of this Code section and future successors shall each be appointed for a term of four years, which term shall begin on the day following the expiration of the term of office of the member such person is appointed to succeed. Any member of the authority shall be eligible for reappointment. Any person appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve only for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(c) Successors to the members referred to in subsection (b) of this Code section and future successors shall each be appointed for a term of four years, which term shall begin on the day following the expiration of the term of office of the member such person is appointed to succeed. Any member of the authority shall be eligible for reappointment. Any person appointed to fill a vacancy shall serve only for the remainder of the unexpired term.

(d) The authority shall elect one of its members as chairperson and another member as vice chairperson and shall also elect a secretary-treasurer who shall not necessarily be a member of the authority.

(d) The authority shall elect one of its members as chairperson and another member as vice chairperson and shall also elect a secretary-treasurer who shall not necessarily be a member of the authority.

(e) Seven members of the authority shall constitute a quorum. No vacancy on the authority shall impair the right of a quorum to exercise all the rights and perform all the duties of the authority.

(e) Seven members of the authority shall constitute a quorum. No vacancy on the authority shall impair the right of a quorum to exercise all the rights and perform all the duties of the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-8 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-8
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-8
Status: in_force

Except as otherwise provided for in this article, any remedy provided for in this article shall be in addition to any other remedy available to the state, any littoral proprietor within this state, or any other citizen of this state.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-52 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-52
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-52
Status: in_force

The owner, master, consignee, or charterer of any vessel who carries any pilot against his consent to any foreign or other port shall be liable to such pilot in an action on the case for the payment of his reasonable expenses and $10.00 a day during his necessary absence, provided the carrying away of the pilot is not owing to his own misconduct or negligence; and, if a pilot is detained on board, wind and weather permitting the vessel to go to sea, the owner, master, consignee, or charterer shall be liable to pay the pilot $10.00 a day for every day he is so detained.
O.C.G.A. § 52-3-7 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 3 / Section 52-3-7
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-3-7
Status: in_force

The Department of Transportation may receive gifts and donations of money or property from individuals, firms, corporations, and political subdivisions and may use the same in defraying expenses of the department and the costs of acquiring the property and rights necessary for the construction, maintenance, and improvement of the intracoastal waterway.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-12-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-12-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-12.1
Status: in_force

Any person who operates any vessel or manipulates any water skis, aquaplane, surfboard, tube, or similar device in reckless disregard for the safety of persons or property commits the offense of reckless operation of a vessel or other water device.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-72-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-72-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-72.1
Status: in_force

(a)(1) If any vessel for which the Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia Crime Information Center have received notice pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 has not been removed and is determined not to be a stolen vessel, the commissioner may proceed to take action against the owner as provided by this Code section. (2) If any vessel for which the Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia Crime Information Center have received notice pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 has been removed, the provisions of this Code section shall not apply and the provisions of Code Section 52-7-71 shall apply instead.

(a)(1) If any vessel for which the Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia Crime Information Center have received notice pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 has not been removed and is determined not to be a stolen vessel, the commissioner may proceed to take action against the owner as provided by this Code section.

(a)(1) If any vessel for which the Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia Crime Information Center have received notice pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 has not been removed and is determined not to be a stolen vessel, the commissioner may proceed to take action against the owner as provided by this Code section.

(2) If any vessel for which the Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia Crime Information Center have received notice pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 has been removed, the provisions of this Code section shall not apply and the provisions of Code Section 52-7-71 shall apply instead.

(2) If any vessel for which the Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia Crime Information Center have received notice pursuant to subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 has been removed, the provisions of this Code section shall not apply and the provisions of Code Section 52-7-71 shall apply instead.

(b)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 , 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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 (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 , 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 , 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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)(1)(A) Upon notice to the Department of Natural Resources as described in subsection (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 , 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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 (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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 (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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 (d) of Code Section 52-7-72 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 a person who owns the vessel, until the owner restores and resumes operation of the vessel or removes it from public waters or public property. 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.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-1
Status: in_force

This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Georgia Boat Safety Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 52-10-2 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 10 / Section 52-10-2
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-10-2
Status: in_force

Any public corporation of the State of Georgia, as that term is defined in Code Section 52-10-1 , is authorized to make application for the privilege of establishing, operating, and maintaining a foreign trade zone in accordance with an act of Congress approved June 18, 1934, entitled “An Act to provide for the establishment, operation, and maintenance of foreign trade zones in ports of entry of the United States, to expedite and encourage foreign commerce, and for other purposes.”
O.C.G.A. § 52-5-9 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 5 / Section 52-5-9
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-5-9
Status: in_force

The stock in the company shall be deemed personal property and shall be transferable in such manner as may be prescribed by the bylaws of the company.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-11 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-11
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-11
Status: in_force

The Georgia Ports Authority shall have and may exercise the following powers:

(1) The authority may borrow money for its corporate purposes and may execute and deliver long-term and short-term notes, commercial paper, bond anticipation notes, and other obligations or evidences of indebtedness therefor and may secure such indebtedness in such manner as the authority may provide by its resolution authorizing the indebtedness to be incurred, provided that the authority shall not pledge to the payment of the indebtedness revenue pledged to the payment of any other indebtedness then outstanding or encumber property in violation of the terms of any existing contract, agreement, or trust indenture securing existing indebtedness.

(1) The authority may borrow money for its corporate purposes and may execute and deliver long-term and short-term notes, commercial paper, bond anticipation notes, and other obligations or evidences of indebtedness therefor and may secure such indebtedness in such manner as the authority may provide by its resolution authorizing the indebtedness to be incurred, provided that the authority shall not pledge to the payment of the indebtedness revenue pledged to the payment of any other indebtedness then outstanding or encumber property in violation of the terms of any existing contract, agreement, or trust indenture securing existing indebtedness.

(2) The authority may from time to time sell or otherwise dispose of surplus personal property and may sell or otherwise dispose of land and any improvements thereon acquired by the authority pursuant to law and which the authority may determine is not required for port or warehouse operations or for the future expansion and improvement of the state system of docks, including property which is suitable for industrial development. Any such property may be sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of upon such terms and conditions as may be provided by resolution of the authority. The proceeds of any such sale shall be used by the authority for the purposes provided by law. However, any sale of land or leasing of same and mortgaging of same or conveying the same as security for a loan as provided under this Code section shall be first approved in writing by the Governor, the state auditor, and the Attorney General.

(2) The authority may from time to time sell or otherwise dispose of surplus personal property and may sell or otherwise dispose of land and any improvements thereon acquired by the authority pursuant to law and which the authority may determine is not required for port or warehouse operations or for the future expansion and improvement of the state system of docks, including property which is suitable for industrial development. Any such property may be sold, leased, or otherwise disposed of upon such terms and conditions as may be provided by resolution of the authority. The proceeds of any such sale shall be used by the authority for the purposes provided by law. However, any sale of land or leasing of same and mortgaging of same or conveying the same as security for a loan as provided under this Code section shall be first approved in writing by the Governor, the state auditor, and the Attorney General.
O.C.G.A. § 52-9-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 9 / Section 52-9-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-9-1
Status: in_force

The General Assembly recognizes the need for maintaining navigation inlets, harbors, and rivers to promote commercial and recreational uses of our coastal waters and their resources. The General Assembly further recognizes that dredging activities to deepen or maintain navigation channels within tidal inlets, as well as the entrances to harbors and rivers, often alter the natural drift of sand resources within the littoral zone. This alteration can be exacerbated when the sand resources are deposited in designated upland or offshore disposal areas instead of being returned to the natural river-sand transport-beach system. This alteration can adversely impact natural resources, recreation, tourism, and associated coastal economies. Moreover, the General Assembly believes in the duties of government to protect life and property. Therefore, it is the policy of this state that there shall be no net loss of sand from the state's coastal barrier beaches resulting from dredging activities to deepen or maintain navigation channels within tidal inlets, as well as the entrances to harbors and rivers.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-35 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-35
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-35
Status: in_force

The authority shall have the right to do all new construction under an agency or construction management form of contract without the necessity of taking competitive bids.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-6 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-6
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-6
Status: in_force

The members of the authority shall be compensated in the amount of $40.00 per day, plus actual expenses incurred, for each day's service spent in the performance of the duties of the authority. Such compensation shall be limited to 150 days for the chairman and 60 days for each of the other members of the authority during any one fiscal year.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-7-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-7-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-7.3
Status: in_force

(a) If the hull identification number on a vessel required by Code Section 52-7-7.1 or 52-7-7.2 to have a hull identification number does not exist or has been altered, removed, destroyed, covered, or defaced or the real identity of the vessel cannot be determined, the vessel, and any items used while towing such vessel, may be seized as contraband by a law enforcement agency or the department and shall be subject to forfeiture in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 16 of Title 9.

(a) If the hull identification number on a vessel required by Code Section 52-7-7.1 or 52-7-7.2 to have a hull identification number does not exist or has been altered, removed, destroyed, covered, or defaced or the real identity of the vessel cannot be determined, the vessel, and any items used while towing such vessel, may be seized as contraband by a law enforcement agency or the department and shall be subject to forfeiture in accordance with the procedures set forth in Chapter 16 of Title 9.

(b) A vessel described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall not be sold or operated on the waters of the state unless the department: (1) Receives a request from a law enforcement agency providing adequate documentation for a replacement hull identification number; or (2) Is directed by written order of a court of competent jurisdiction to issue to the vessel a replacement hull identification number.

(b) A vessel described in subsection (a) of this Code section shall not be sold or operated on the waters of the state unless the department:

(1) Receives a request from a law enforcement agency providing adequate documentation for a replacement hull identification number; or

(1) Receives a request from a law enforcement agency providing adequate documentation for a replacement hull identification number; or

(2) Is directed by written order of a court of competent jurisdiction to issue to the vessel a replacement hull identification number.

(2) Is directed by written order of a court of competent jurisdiction to issue to the vessel a replacement hull identification number.

(c) The failure to have the hull identification number clearly displayed in compliance with this article shall be probable cause for any law enforcement officer to make further inspection of the vessel in question to ascertain the true identity thereof.

(c) The failure to have the hull identification number clearly displayed in compliance with this article shall be probable cause for any law enforcement officer to make further inspection of the vessel in question to ascertain the true identity thereof.

(d) Prior to the vessel being sold or returned to the owner or otherwise disposed of, the department shall assign it a new hull identification number in accordance with federal law.

(d) Prior to the vessel being sold or returned to the owner or otherwise disposed of, the department shall assign it a new hull identification number in accordance with federal law.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-35 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-35
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-35
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 52-1-34 or Code Section 52-1-39 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. § 52-4-6 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-6
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-6
Status: in_force

When all the capital stock has been subscribed for and 10 percent thereof paid in, notice of that fact shall be published three times in the public newspaper in which the sheriff's sales are advertised in the county in which is situated the principal office of the corporation. When this has been done, the corporation is authorized to begin the transaction of business, but not before. The directors and stockholders of the corporation shall be personally liable for all obligations incurred prior to a compliance with the requirements provided in this Code section.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-8-4 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-8-4
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-8.4
Status: in_force

(a) As used in this Code section, the term: (1) “ Anchorage restriction areas ” means areas within the estuarine areas of this state in any location that lies within 300 feet of a marina, 150 feet from a marine structure other than a marina, or within 500 feet of approved commercial shellfish growing areas and designated public harvest areas as determined by the department. (2) “ Estuarine areas ” means all tidally influenced waters, marshes, and marshlands lying within a tide-elevation range from 5.6 feet above mean tide level and below. (3) “ Live-aboard vessel ” means a floating vessel or other watercraft capable of safe navigation using mechanical means, sails, oars, or other means of propulsion which is utilized primarily as a residence. (4) “ Long-term anchoring ” means anchoring a vessel within a 5,280 foot radius of a documented anchoring point where a vessel is anchored for over 14 cumulative days in a calendar year. (5) “ Marina ” means a facility that provides fuel, public dockage, public dinghy access, sale of goods or merchandise, vessel maintenance, or other marine services. (6) “ Marine structure ” means a public or private dock, pier, bridge, or wharf. Marine structures include, but are not limited to, marinas, boat ramps, boatyards, or other vessel launching or loading facilities. (7) “ Overnight ” means all consecutive hours between the hours of 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise. (8) “ Short-term anchoring ” means anchoring a vessel within a 5,280 foot radius of a documented anchoring point where a vessel is anchored for up to and including 14 cumulative days in a calendar year.

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

(1) “ Anchorage restriction areas ” means areas within the estuarine areas of this state in any location that lies within 300 feet of a marina, 150 feet from a marine structure other than a marina, or within 500 feet of approved commercial shellfish growing areas and designated public harvest areas as determined by the department.

(1) “ Anchorage restriction areas ” means areas within the estuarine areas of this state in any location that lies within 300 feet of a marina, 150 feet from a marine structure other than a marina, or within 500 feet of approved commercial shellfish growing areas and designated public harvest areas as determined by the department.

(2) “ Estuarine areas ” means all tidally influenced waters, marshes, and marshlands lying within a tide-elevation range from 5.6 feet above mean tide level and below.

(2) “ Estuarine areas ” means all tidally influenced waters, marshes, and marshlands lying within a tide-elevation range from 5.6 feet above mean tide level and below.

(3) “ Live-aboard vessel ” means a floating vessel or other watercraft capable of safe navigation using mechanical means, sails, oars, or other means of propulsion which is utilized primarily as a residence.

(3) “ Live-aboard vessel ” means a floating vessel or other watercraft capable of safe navigation using mechanical means, sails, oars, or other means of propulsion which is utilized primarily as a residence.

(4) “ Long-term anchoring ” means anchoring a vessel within a 5,280 foot radius of a documented anchoring point where a vessel is anchored for over 14 cumulative days in a calendar year.

(4) “ Long-term anchoring ” means anchoring a vessel within a 5,280 foot radius of a documented anchoring point where a vessel is anchored for over 14 cumulative days in a calendar year.

(5) “ Marina ” means a facility that provides fuel, public dockage, public dinghy access, sale of goods or merchandise, vessel maintenance, or other marine services.

(5) “ Marina ” means a facility that provides fuel, public dockage, public dinghy access, sale of goods or merchandise, vessel maintenance, or other marine services.

(6) “ Marine structure ” means a public or private dock, pier, bridge, or wharf. Marine structures include, but are not limited to, marinas, boat ramps, boatyards, or other vessel launching or loading facilities.

(6) “ Marine structure ” means a public or private dock, pier, bridge, or wharf. Marine structures include, but are not limited to, marinas, boat ramps, boatyards, or other vessel launching or loading facilities.

(7) “ Overnight ” means all consecutive hours between the hours of 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise.

(7) “ Overnight ” means all consecutive hours between the hours of 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise.

(8) “ Short-term anchoring ” means anchoring a vessel within a 5,280 foot radius of a documented anchoring point where a vessel is anchored for up to and including 14 cumulative days in a calendar year.

(8) “ Short-term anchoring ” means anchoring a vessel within a 5,280 foot radius of a documented anchoring point where a vessel is anchored for up to and including 14 cumulative days in a calendar year.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to anchor any vessel overnight within the anchorage restriction areas. Nothing in this Code section shall prohibit the owner of a vessel from docking at a private recreational dock so long as such vessel is not utilized as a live-aboard vessel.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to anchor any vessel overnight within the anchorage restriction areas. Nothing in this Code section shall prohibit the owner of a vessel from docking at a private recreational dock so long as such vessel is not utilized as a live-aboard vessel.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in long-term anchoring of a vessel in the estuarine areas of this state without having first obtained a long-term anchoring permit from the commissioner or his or her designee under such terms and conditions as the commissioner or his or her designee may prescribe.

(c) It shall be unlawful for any person to engage in long-term anchoring of a vessel in the estuarine areas of this state without having first obtained a long-term anchoring permit from the commissioner or his or her designee under such terms and conditions as the commissioner or his or her designee may prescribe.

(d) Nothing in this Code section shall prohibit a person from engaging in short-term anchoring of a vessel in the estuarine areas of this state so long as such vessel is not anchored overnight within the anchorage restriction areas.

(d) Nothing in this Code section shall prohibit a person from engaging in short-term anchoring of a vessel in the estuarine areas of this state so long as such vessel is not anchored overnight within the anchorage restriction areas.

(e) No part of this Code section shall restrict the ability of vessels to seek safe harbor in the event of dangerous weather or mechanical failure. A reasonable period of time whereby a vessel owner may seek safe harbor shall not exceed seven days.

(e) No part of this Code section shall restrict the ability of vessels to seek safe harbor in the event of dangerous weather or mechanical failure. A reasonable period of time whereby a vessel owner may seek safe harbor shall not exceed seven days.

(f) Exemptions to the requirements in this Code section may be granted by the commissioner or his or her designee for unique circumstances such as, but not limited to, certain commercial or educational activities.

(f) Exemptions to the requirements in this Code section may be granted by the commissioner or his or her designee for unique circumstances such as, but not limited to, certain commercial or educational activities.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-75 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-75
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-75
Status: in_force

(a)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ public sale ” means a sale: (A) Held at a place reasonably available to persons who might desire to attend and submit bids; (B) At which those attending shall be given the opportunity to bid on a competitive basis; (C) At which the sale, if made, shall be made to the highest and best bidder; and (D) Except as otherwise provided in Title 11 for advertising or dispensing with the advertising of public sales, of which notice is given by advertisement once a week for two weeks in the newspaper in which the sheriff's advertisements are published in the county where the sale is to be held, and which notice shall state the day and hour, between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., and the place of sale and shall briefly identify the goods to be sold. (2) Upon order of the court, the person holding the lien on the abandoned vessel shall be authorized to sell such vessel at public sale.

(a)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ public sale ” means a sale: (A) Held at a place reasonably available to persons who might desire to attend and submit bids; (B) At which those attending shall be given the opportunity to bid on a competitive basis; (C) At which the sale, if made, shall be made to the highest and best bidder; and (D) Except as otherwise provided in Title 11 for advertising or dispensing with the advertising of public sales, of which notice is given by advertisement once a week for two weeks in the newspaper in which the sheriff's advertisements are published in the county where the sale is to be held, and which notice shall state the day and hour, between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., and the place of sale and shall briefly identify the goods to be sold.

(a)(1) As used in this subsection, the term “ public sale ” means a sale:

(A) Held at a place reasonably available to persons who might desire to attend and submit bids;

(A) Held at a place reasonably available to persons who might desire to attend and submit bids;

(B) At which those attending shall be given the opportunity to bid on a competitive basis;

(B) At which those attending shall be given the opportunity to bid on a competitive basis;

(C) At which the sale, if made, shall be made to the highest and best bidder; and

(C) At which the sale, if made, shall be made to the highest and best bidder; and

(D) Except as otherwise provided in Title 11 for advertising or dispensing with the advertising of public sales, of which notice is given by advertisement once a week for two weeks in the newspaper in which the sheriff's advertisements are published in the county where the sale is to be held, and which notice shall state the day and hour, between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., and the place of sale and shall briefly identify the goods to be sold.

(D) Except as otherwise provided in Title 11 for advertising or dispensing with the advertising of public sales, of which notice is given by advertisement once a week for two weeks in the newspaper in which the sheriff's advertisements are published in the county where the sale is to be held, and which notice shall state the day and hour, between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., and the place of sale and shall briefly identify the goods to be sold.

(2) Upon order of the court, the person holding the lien on the abandoned vessel shall be authorized to sell such vessel at public sale.

(2) Upon order of the court, the person holding the lien on the abandoned vessel shall be authorized to sell such vessel at public sale.

(b) After satisfaction of the lien, the person selling such vessel shall turn the remaining proceeds of such sale, if any, over to the clerk of the court.

(b) After satisfaction of the lien, the person selling such vessel shall turn the remaining proceeds of such sale, if any, over to the clerk of the court.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-41 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-41
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-41
Status: in_force

It shall be unlawful to manufacture, sell, or offer for sale in this state any watercraft to which a capacity plate has not been attached.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-51 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-51
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-51
Status: in_force

(a) Any person who violates this article or any rules and regulations issued hereunder shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. For purposes of establishing criminal violations of the rules and regulations promulgated by the Board of Natural Resources as provided in this article, the term “ rules and regulations ” means those rules and regulations of the Board of Natural Resources in force and effect on January 1, 2014.

(a) Any person who violates this article or any rules and regulations issued hereunder shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. For purposes of establishing criminal violations of the rules and regulations promulgated by the Board of Natural Resources as provided in this article, the term “ rules and regulations ” means those rules and regulations of the Board of Natural Resources in force and effect on January 1, 2014.

(b) Failure to affix a proper capacity plate shall constitute a separate violation for each watercraft with respect to which such failure occurs.

(b) Failure to affix a proper capacity plate shall constitute a separate violation for each watercraft with respect to which such failure occurs.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-24 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-24
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-24
Status: in_force

A copy of the regulations adopted pursuant to this article and of any amendments thereto shall be filed in the office of the department and in the office of the Secretary of State. Rules and regulations shall be published by the department in a convenient form.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-7-5 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-7-5
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-7.5
Status: in_force

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly possess, manufacture, sell or exchange, offer to sell or exchange, aid in the sale or exchange, supply in blank, authorize, direct, or give away any counterfeit HIN, any counterfeit manufacturer's vessel HIN plate or decal, or any manufacturer's vessel HIN plate decal which is assigned to a vessel to be used for the purpose of identification of a vessel other than the one to which it is assigned; or to conspire to do any of the foregoing. However, nothing in this subsection shall be applicable to any approved hull identification number plate or decal issued as a replacement by the manufacturer or an issuing authority.

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly possess, manufacture, sell or exchange, offer to sell or exchange, aid in the sale or exchange, supply in blank, authorize, direct, or give away any counterfeit HIN, any counterfeit manufacturer's vessel HIN plate or decal, or any manufacturer's vessel HIN plate decal which is assigned to a vessel to be used for the purpose of identification of a vessel other than the one to which it is assigned; or to conspire to do any of the foregoing. However, nothing in this subsection shall be applicable to any approved hull identification number plate or decal issued as a replacement by the manufacturer or an issuing authority.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly buy, sell, offer for sale, receive, dispose of, conceal, or have in his or her possession any vessel, outboard motor, or part thereof on which the HIN or any manufacturer's identification label of any kind has been altered, removed, destroyed, covered, or defaced or to knowingly maintain such vessel, outboard motor, or part thereof in any manner which conceals or misrepresents the true identity of the vessel, the outboard motor, or any part thereof.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly buy, sell, offer for sale, receive, dispose of, conceal, or have in his or her possession any vessel, outboard motor, or part thereof on which the HIN or any manufacturer's identification label of any kind has been altered, removed, destroyed, covered, or defaced or to knowingly maintain such vessel, outboard motor, or part thereof in any manner which conceals or misrepresents the true identity of the vessel, the outboard motor, or any part thereof.

(c) Any person who violates subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500.00 nor more than $5,000.00, by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than five years, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

(c) Any person who violates subsection (a) or (b) of this Code section shall be guilty of a felony and, upon conviction thereof, shall be punished by a fine of not less than $500.00 nor more than $5,000.00, by imprisonment for not less than one nor more than five years, or by both such fine and imprisonment.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-9 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-9
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-9
Status: in_force

(a) The owner of a boat livery shall cause to be kept a record of the name and address of the person or persons hiring any vessel, the identification number thereof, the departure date and time, and the expected time of return. The record shall be preserved for at least six months.

(a) The owner of a boat livery shall cause to be kept a record of the name and address of the person or persons hiring any vessel, the identification number thereof, the departure date and time, and the expected time of return. The record shall be preserved for at least six months.

(b) Neither the owner of a boat livery nor his agent or employees shall permit any vessel to depart from his premises unless it shall have been provided either by the owner or renter with the equipment required pursuant to Code Section 52-7-8 and any rules and regulations made pursuant thereto.

(b) Neither the owner of a boat livery nor his agent or employees shall permit any vessel to depart from his premises unless it shall have been provided either by the owner or renter with the equipment required pursuant to Code Section 52-7-8 and any rules and regulations made pursuant thereto.

(c) No livery boat, except those having a length of 16 feet or less with a depth of 16 inches or less, shall be operated by any person unless there is on board a copy of the rental agreement authorizing such operation which shows the vessel number, the period of time the boat is authorized for use by such operator, and any other pertinent information that the department may require.

(c) No livery boat, except those having a length of 16 feet or less with a depth of 16 inches or less, shall be operated by any person unless there is on board a copy of the rental agreement authorizing such operation which shows the vessel number, the period of time the boat is authorized for use by such operator, and any other pertinent information that the department may require.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-26 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-26
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-26
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this article, any person who violates this article or any rule or regulation promulgated hereunder shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. For purposes of establishing criminal violations of the rules and regulations promulgated by the board as provided in this article, the term “ rules and regulations ” means those rules and regulations of the board in force and effect on January 1, 2023.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this article, any person who violates this article or any rule or regulation promulgated hereunder shall be guilty of a misdemeanor. For purposes of establishing criminal violations of the rules and regulations promulgated by the board as provided in this article, the term “ rules and regulations ” means those rules and regulations of the board in force and effect on January 1, 2023.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (d) of Code Section 17-6-12 , the release of a person on an unsecured judicial release as provided for in Code Section 17-6-12 for violations under Code Sections 52-7-12 , 52-7-12.2 , 52-7-12.3 , and 52-7-12.4 shall be prohibited.

(b) Notwithstanding subsection (d) of Code Section 17-6-12 , the release of a person on an unsecured judicial release as provided for in Code Section 17-6-12 for violations under Code Sections 52-7-12 , 52-7-12.2 , 52-7-12.3 , and 52-7-12.4 shall be prohibited.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-14 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-14
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-14
Status: in_force

Companies incorporated under this chapter may mortgage, sell, or lease their canal and other properties, corporate rights, and franchises to any person or corporation to obtain money to purchase, construct, or maintain their works and franchises.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-8 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-8
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-8
Status: in_force

The commissioners shall preserve in a neatly bound book a record of all their acts and of all the rules and regulations adopted by them for the direction and government of pilots. The commissioners shall designate one of their number as chairperson and cause a record thereof to be made. The commissioners shall also preserve upon their records a list of the names of all persons appointed pilots by them, as well as a list of the names of those whose licenses have been suspended or revoked or who have been retired. All persons interested shall have access to and be permitted to have duplicates of such records.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-7-6 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-7-6
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-7.6
Status: in_force

A vessel shall not be required to have a hull identification number under Code Section 52-7-7.1 or 52-7-7.2 if it is:

(1) An innertube; or

(1) An innertube; or

(2) A vessel used exclusively for racing.

(2) A vessel used exclusively for racing.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-36 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-36
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-36
Status: in_force

(a) All moneys received pursuant to the authority of this chapter, whether as proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds, as grants or other contributions, or as revenues and earnings, shall be deemed to be trust funds to be held and applied solely as provided in this chapter. The authority shall, in the resolution providing for the issuance of revenue bonds or in the trust indenture, provide for the payment of the proceeds of the sale of the bonds and the earnings and revenues to be received to any officer who or any agency, bank, or trust company which shall act as trustee of such funds and shall hold and apply the funds to the purposes of this chapter, subject to such regulations as this chapter and the resolution or trust indenture may provide.

(a) All moneys received pursuant to the authority of this chapter, whether as proceeds from the sale of revenue bonds, as grants or other contributions, or as revenues and earnings, shall be deemed to be trust funds to be held and applied solely as provided in this chapter. The authority shall, in the resolution providing for the issuance of revenue bonds or in the trust indenture, provide for the payment of the proceeds of the sale of the bonds and the earnings and revenues to be received to any officer who or any agency, bank, or trust company which shall act as trustee of such funds and shall hold and apply the funds to the purposes of this chapter, subject to such regulations as this chapter and the resolution or trust indenture may provide.

(b) Subject to such restriction as provided by resolution passed before the issuance of its bonds or by the trust indenture securing the bonds, the authority may invest any moneys received by it pursuant to authority of this chapter in obligations which are eligible as security for the investment of trust funds; and the authority may, by resolution, provide for the sale of any such investment and for the reinvestment of the proceeds thereof.

(b) Subject to such restriction as provided by resolution passed before the issuance of its bonds or by the trust indenture securing the bonds, the authority may invest any moneys received by it pursuant to authority of this chapter in obligations which are eligible as security for the investment of trust funds; and the authority may, by resolution, provide for the sale of any such investment and for the reinvestment of the proceeds thereof.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-10 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-10
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-10
Status: in_force

The office of the commissioners must be kept in some suitable place of which the public shall have notice; and their books, papers, and records may be kept in such office or in the office of any court of record in the county.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-7 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-7
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-7
Status: in_force

All fines and forfeitures collected by the commissioners, or so much thereof as may be necessary, shall be applied toward the payment of the expenses of the board.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-6 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-6
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-6
Status: in_force

The commissioners are authorized, in their own names or in that of their chairman as such, to bring an action for and recover, to their own use and the improvement of navigation, any forfeiture accruing under this chapter which is not otherwise specifically appropriated.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-38 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-38
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-38
Status: in_force

In the event the commissioner determines that the seizure and removal of a structure shall result in the removal of a person or persons from a permanent residence, the commissioner may, at the end of the 30 day period set forth in Code Section 52-1-36 , allow a reasonable period of time for the structure inhabitants to find a new residence prior to the removal of the structure.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-5 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-5
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-5
Status: in_force

The commissioners of pilotage may appoint one of the active pilots to be the master pilot, to have charge of the pilots, and, as representative of the commissioners, to see that its rules and regulations are complied with.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-37 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-37
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-37
Status: in_force

It is found, determined, and declared that the creation of the authority and the carrying out of its corporate purpose is in all respects for the benefit of the people of this state and is a public purpose and that the authority will be performing an essential governmental function in the exercise of the power conferred upon it by this chapter; and this state covenants with the holders of the bonds that the authority shall be required to pay no taxes or assessments upon any of the property acquired by it or under its jurisdiction, control, possession, or supervision or upon its activities in the operation or maintenance of the facilities erected, maintained, or acquired by it or any fees, rentals, or other charges for the use of such facilities or other income received by the authority and that the bonds of the authority, their transfer, and the income therefrom shall at all times be exempt from taxation within the state. The exemption from taxation provided for in this Code section shall include an exemption from sales and use tax on tangible personal property purchased by the authority for use exclusively by the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-7-2 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-7-2
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-7.2
Status: in_force

Each vessel manufactured or built after April 14, 2006, for sale in this state shall have a hull identification number displayed prior to sale or delivery for sale in accordance with federal law and this article. The hull identification number shall not be altered or replaced by the manufacturer or manufacturer's representative for the purpose of upgrading the model year of a vessel after being offered for sale or delivered to any dealer.
O.C.G.A. § 52-8-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 8 / Section 52-8-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-8-1
Status: in_force

Any master of a vessel or watercraft who shall throw or permit to be thrown any stone, gravel, or other ballast from on board the vessel or watercraft into any of the waters of any bay or harbor of this state or within three miles of the outside bar of any such bay or harbor shall forfeit a sum not less than $500.00 nor more than $2,000.00 for each such offense. One-half of the forfeiture shall be paid to the person who first gives information of the offense to the Board of Pilotage Commissioners and the other half shall be paid to the use of the commissioners of the harbors, respectively, for improvement of navigation. In addition, any such master may be punished by imprisonment for not over three months, in the discretion of the court.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-9 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-9
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-9
Status: in_force

The secretary of the commissioners shall have such salary or fees as the commissioners may determine, which salary or fees shall be paid out of fines and forfeitures or such other fund as shall be under the control of the commissioners.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-5 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-5
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-5
Status: in_force

Whenever the commissioner determines that any structure as defined in this article exists, the commissioner may issue an order directed “TO ALL PERSONS IN POSSESSION OR CLAIMING OWNERSHIP OF THIS STRUCTURE.” The order shall describe the structure in reasonable detail, shall set forth the unlawful nature of the structure, and shall order that the structure be removed within a reasonable time after the order becomes final to be prescribed in such order. Any order issued by the commissioner under this article shall be signed by the commissioner. Any such order shall become final unless any person in possession of the structure or any person claiming ownership of or an interest in the structure requests in writing a hearing pursuant to Code Section 52-1-6 . The order shall apprise the person or persons of their right to request a hearing and of the procedures necessary to obtain a hearing pursuant to Code Section 52-1-6 . The order, in all cases, shall be served by initially publishing the same once each week for two successive weeks in a newspaper printed and published in the county in which the structure is located or in a newspaper of general circulation in the county in which the structure is located. The order shall then be served by a peace officer upon any person of suitable age and discretion found in possession of the structure or, if no such person is found in possession of the structure, the peace officer shall securely post the order in a conspicuous place on the structure. Any order so posted must be protected from the weather by encasing same in a weatherproof, transparent material. The date of service shall be stated within the order. The return of the service signed by the peace officer and filed in the office of the commissioner, stating that a copy of such order was served either upon a person of suitable age and discretion in possession of the structure personally or that no such person was found in possession of the structure and that a copy of the order was posted in a conspicuous place on the structure in accordance with this Code section, shall be sufficient evidence as to the service of such person in possession; provided, however, that where the address of the person or persons claiming ownership of the structure is known, a copy of such order shall be mailed to such persons by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery as part of the service process during the period of time that the order is being published in the newspaper.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-45 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-45
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-45
Status: in_force

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this Code section, every vessel shall be under the direction and control of a pilot licensed by this state when underway in the bays, rivers, harbors, and ports of this state and the approaches thereto.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this Code section, every vessel shall be under the direction and control of a pilot licensed by this state when underway in the bays, rivers, harbors, and ports of this state and the approaches thereto.

(b) The requirement of subsection (a) of this Code section shall not apply to the following vessels: (1) Vessels exempted by the laws of the United States; (2) Vessels under 200 gross tons; and (3) Vessels in distress or jeopardy, except that any such vessel shall take a state licensed pilot as soon as one arrives at the vessel.

(b) The requirement of subsection (a) of this Code section shall not apply to the following vessels:

(1) Vessels exempted by the laws of the United States;

(1) Vessels exempted by the laws of the United States;

(2) Vessels under 200 gross tons; and

(2) Vessels under 200 gross tons; and

(3) Vessels in distress or jeopardy, except that any such vessel shall take a state licensed pilot as soon as one arrives at the vessel.

(3) Vessels in distress or jeopardy, except that any such vessel shall take a state licensed pilot as soon as one arrives at the vessel.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to prohibit a vessel from utilizing the services of a docking pilot in addition to the state licensed pilot required under this chapter during docking and undocking maneuvers with the assistance of one or more tugboats. The commissioners are authorized, consistent with all other requirements of this chapter, to establish by regulation or otherwise the duties, responsibilities, and fees of state licensed pilots when operating with a docking pilot aboard a vessel.

(c) Nothing in this Code section shall be construed to prohibit a vessel from utilizing the services of a docking pilot in addition to the state licensed pilot required under this chapter during docking and undocking maneuvers with the assistance of one or more tugboats. The commissioners are authorized, consistent with all other requirements of this chapter, to establish by regulation or otherwise the duties, responsibilities, and fees of state licensed pilots when operating with a docking pilot aboard a vessel.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-32 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-32
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-32
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) “Navigable stream or river” means a stream or river which is capable of transporting boats loaded with freight in the regular course of trade either for the whole or a part of the year.

(3) “Navigable stream or river” means a stream or river which is capable of transporting boats loaded with freight in the regular course of trade either for the whole or a part of the year.

(4) “ Structure ” means any structure located upon any navigable stream or river of this state, whether such structure is floating upon such navigable stream or river 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 navigable stream or river when such structure is being, has been, 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 navigable stream or river; and is not owned, occupied, or possessed pursuant to a permit issued by the commissioner pursuant to Code Section 52-1-39 . 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) “ Structure ” means any structure located upon any navigable stream or river of this state, whether such structure is floating upon such navigable stream or river 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 navigable stream or river when such structure is being, has been, 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 navigable stream or river; and is not owned, occupied, or possessed pursuant to a permit issued by the commissioner pursuant to Code Section 52-1-39 . 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.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-17 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-17
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-17
Status: in_force

In case any officer whose signature appears on any bonds or whose facsimile signature appears on any coupons ceases to be such officer before the delivery of the bonds, such signature shall nevertheless be valid and sufficient for all purposes the same as if he had remained in office until the delivery. All such bonds shall be signed by the chairman of the authority and the official seal of the authority shall be affixed thereto and attested by the secretary-treasurer of the authority and any coupons attached thereto shall bear the facsimile signature of the chairman of the authority. Any coupon may bear the facsimile signature of such person and any bond may be signed, sealed, and attested on behalf of the authority by such persons as at the actual time of the execution of such bonds shall be duly authorized or hold the proper office, although at the date of the bond such persons may not have been so authorized or shall not have held such office.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-14 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-14
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-14
Status: in_force

The Governor of this state is authorized to convey, for and in behalf of the state, title to lands and improvements known as the Medical Depot site in Chatham County, Georgia, adjacent to the Savannah River. For a more particular description, reference is made to the deed conveying the site from the State of Georgia to the Georgia Ports Authority upon payment of such nominal sum to the Office of the State Treasurer as may be agreed upon by the Governor and the authority. The authority shall have the power to sell any portions of land or improvements, or both, thus conveyed as are not required for port or warehouse operations or for the future expansion or improvement of the operation of a system of state docks, provided that any moneys received incident to such sales shall be utilized by the authority for the further expansion, construction, and improvement of the existing facilities located at the Medical Depot site in Chatham County on the Savannah River. The authority is empowered to borrow money on the existing facilities as described in this Code section and to issue revenue anticipation certificates to be retired from the revenue derived from the described facilities. All such sums, whether borrowed or secured through the sale of revenue anticipation certificates, shall be used for the exclusive purpose of developing a system of state docks at the site of the Medical Depot described in this Code section or for the purchase of necessary and essential equipment to be located thereon, or both, and for any and all purposes deemed necessary, essential, and expedient for the purpose of developing the site as a part of a system of state docks.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-36 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-36
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-36
Status: in_force

Any pilot who shall, with knowledge of the arrest of any vessel under process from any court of record, conduct or pilot the vessel out of the port or harbor where the arrest is made while the vessel is in charge of any officer of any court of record shall forfeit his license and be forever disqualified from acting as pilot.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-21 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-21
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-21
Status: in_force

(a) This article and other applicable laws of this state shall govern the operation, equipment, and numbering of vessels and all other matters relating thereto, whenever any vessel shall be operated on the waters of this state or when any activity regulated by this article shall take place thereon; but nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent the adoption of any ordinance or local law relating to operation and equipment of vessels, the provisions of which are identical to the provisions of this article, amendments thereto, or regulations issued thereunder, provided that such ordinances or local laws shall be operative only so long as and to the extent that they continue to be identical to provisions of this article, amendments thereto, or regulations issued thereunder.

(a) This article and other applicable laws of this state shall govern the operation, equipment, and numbering of vessels and all other matters relating thereto, whenever any vessel shall be operated on the waters of this state or when any activity regulated by this article shall take place thereon; but nothing in this article shall be construed to prevent the adoption of any ordinance or local law relating to operation and equipment of vessels, the provisions of which are identical to the provisions of this article, amendments thereto, or regulations issued thereunder, provided that such ordinances or local laws shall be operative only so long as and to the extent that they continue to be identical to provisions of this article, amendments thereto, or regulations issued thereunder.

(b) Any political subdivision may at any time, but only after approval by the commissioner upon a showing of necessity because of unusual or special circumstances, adopt any ordinance or local law relating to the operation and equipment of vessels on any waters within its territorial limits which is more stringent than those provided for in this article.

(b) Any political subdivision may at any time, but only after approval by the commissioner upon a showing of necessity because of unusual or special circumstances, adopt any ordinance or local law relating to the operation and equipment of vessels on any waters within its territorial limits which is more stringent than those provided for in this article.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-42 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-42
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-42
Status: in_force

A capacity plate shall bear the following information, permanently marked thereon in such manner as to be clearly visible and legible from the position designed or normally intended to be occupied by the operator of the watercraft when the watercraft is in operation:

(1) For all watercraft designed for or represented by the manufacturer as being suitable for use with an outboard motor: (A) The total weight of all persons, motor, gear, and other articles which the watercraft is capable of carrying with safety under normal conditions; (B) The recommended number of persons commensurate with the weight capacity of the watercraft and the presumed weight in pounds of each such person; but in no instance shall such presumed weight per person be less than 150 pounds; (C) Clear notice that the information appearing on the capacity plate is applicable under normal conditions and that the weight of the outboard motor and associated equipment is considered to be part of the total weight capacity; and (D) The maximum horsepower of the motor which the watercraft is designed or intended to accommodate.

(1) For all watercraft designed for or represented by the manufacturer as being suitable for use with an outboard motor:

(A) The total weight of all persons, motor, gear, and other articles which the watercraft is capable of carrying with safety under normal conditions;

(A) The total weight of all persons, motor, gear, and other articles which the watercraft is capable of carrying with safety under normal conditions;

(B) The recommended number of persons commensurate with the weight capacity of the watercraft and the presumed weight in pounds of each such person; but in no instance shall such presumed weight per person be less than 150 pounds;

(B) The recommended number of persons commensurate with the weight capacity of the watercraft and the presumed weight in pounds of each such person; but in no instance shall such presumed weight per person be less than 150 pounds;

(C) Clear notice that the information appearing on the capacity plate is applicable under normal conditions and that the weight of the outboard motor and associated equipment is considered to be part of the total weight capacity; and

(C) Clear notice that the information appearing on the capacity plate is applicable under normal conditions and that the weight of the outboard motor and associated equipment is considered to be part of the total weight capacity; and

(D) The maximum horsepower of the motor which the watercraft is designed or intended to accommodate.

(D) The maximum horsepower of the motor which the watercraft is designed or intended to accommodate.

(2) For all other watercraft to which this article applies: (A) The total weight of all persons, gear, and other articles which the watercraft is capable of carrying with safety under normal conditions; (B) The recommended number of persons commensurate with the weight capacity of the watercraft and the presumed weight in pounds of each such person; but in no instance shall such presumed weight per person be less than 150 pounds; and (C) Clear notice that the information appearing on the capacity plate is applicable under normal conditions.

(2) For all other watercraft to which this article applies:

(A) The total weight of all persons, gear, and other articles which the watercraft is capable of carrying with safety under normal conditions;

(A) The total weight of all persons, gear, and other articles which the watercraft is capable of carrying with safety under normal conditions;

(B) The recommended number of persons commensurate with the weight capacity of the watercraft and the presumed weight in pounds of each such person; but in no instance shall such presumed weight per person be less than 150 pounds; and

(B) The recommended number of persons commensurate with the weight capacity of the watercraft and the presumed weight in pounds of each such person; but in no instance shall such presumed weight per person be less than 150 pounds; and

(C) Clear notice that the information appearing on the capacity plate is applicable under normal conditions.

(C) Clear notice that the information appearing on the capacity plate is applicable under normal conditions.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-19 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-19
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-19
Status: in_force

The bonds may be issued in coupon, registered, or book-entry form, as the authority may determine, and provision may be made for the registration of any coupon bond as to principal alone and also as to both principal and interest.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-9 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-9
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-9
Status: in_force

In the event the commissioner determines that the seizure and removal of a structure shall result in the removal of a person or persons from a permanent residence, the commissioner may, at the end of the 30 day period set forth in Code Section 52-1-7 , allow a reasonable period of time for the structure inhabitants to find a new residence prior to the removal of the structure.
O.C.G.A. § 52-8-2 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 8 / Section 52-8-2
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-8-2
Status: in_force

Every pilot having knowledge of the discharge of any stone, gravel, or other ballast in any bay or harbor of this state, or within three miles of the outside bar of any such bay or harbor, as specified in Code Section 52-8-1 , must give information thereof to the Board of Pilotage Commissioners as soon as practicable; and, upon his failure to do so, such pilot shall be deprived of his license and shall be forever disqualified for the office of pilot.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-39 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-39
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-39
Status: in_force

This chapter shall be deemed to provide an additional and alternative method for the doing of the things authorized thereby and shall be regarded as supplemental and additional to powers conferred by other laws; it shall not be regarded as in derogation of any powers now existing.
O.C.G.A. § 52-8-4 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 8 / Section 52-8-4
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-8-4
Status: in_force

The corporate authorities of any municipality in this state are authorized, within their respective jurisdictions, to prohibit, under proper penalties, the throwing or depositing in navigable waters of any substance of any nature or kind which might in any degree lessen the depth of navigable water within the jurisdictional limits of such municipalities.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-21 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-21
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-21
Status: in_force

Prior to the preparation of definitive bonds, the authority may, under like restrictions, issue interim receipts, interim certificates, or temporary bonds, with or without coupons exchangeable for definitive bonds upon the issuance of the latter. The authority may also provide for the replacement of any bond which shall become mutilated or be destroyed or lost.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-2 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-2
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-2
Status: in_force

When the petition for incorporation has been made and filed and the fee paid, as provided in Code Section 52-4-1 , the Secretary of State shall issue to the petitioners a certificate as follows:

“Georgia. To whom it may concern--Greetings:

_____ having filed their petition in the terms of the law, praying to be incorporated as a canal company, they and their associates and successors are hereby declared to be a body corporate for the period of 30 years, under the name of _____, with power to construct, maintain, and operate a canal in and through _____, with such powers, privileges, and liabilities as may now or hereafter be prescribed by law.

Witness my official hand and seal of state, this _____ day of _____, _____.”
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-1
Status: in_force

Any number of persons, not less than five, desiring to be incorporated as a company for the purpose of constructing, operating, and maintaining a canal, may file with the Secretary of State a petition setting out the names and domicile of the petitioners, that they desire to be incorporated as a canal company, the name under which they desire to be incorporated, the route as nearly as possible of the proposed canal, the headquarters of the corporation, the amount of the capital stock, and the number of shares into which divided and pay to the Secretary of State the fee provided for in Code Section 14-4-183 .
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-49 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-49
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-49
Status: in_force

Nothing contained within this article shall be construed so as to apply to any person who shall manufacture or construct a watercraft for his own personal use and so long as such watercraft remains the property of the person who manufactured or constructed such watercraft.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-34 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-34
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-34
Status: in_force

The authority, in addition to the moneys which may be received from the sale of revenue bonds and from the collection of revenues and earnings derived under this chapter, shall have authority to accept from any federal agency grants for or in aid of the construction of any project or for the payment of bonds and to receive and accept contributions from any source of either money or property or other things of value, to be held, used, and applied only for the purposes for which such grants or contributions may be made.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-1 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-1
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-1
Status: in_force

This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Protection of Tidewaters Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-12-7 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-12-7
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-12.7
Status: in_force

(a) Except as provided for in Code Sections 52-7-12 , 52-7-12.5 , and 52-7-12.6 , and notwithstanding criminal proceedings that may be initiated by law, upon a determination by the department that a person has violated this chapter or any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant thereto, is in noncompliance with a citation issued by another state regarding the operation of a vessel, or is suspended by another state from operating a vessel, the department may suspend such person's privilege to operate a vessel upon the waters of this state for a period of up to two years following the determination of such violation, or if the suspension is due to noncompliance with a citation or a suspension regarding the operation of a vessel in another state, then such person's privilege to operate a vessel upon the waters of this state may remain suspended until satisfactory evidence of compliance or restoration of privileges from the other state has been received by the department as such satisfactory evidence is determined by rules and regulations of the department. Such person shall be notified of the proposed suspension personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery at such person's last known address. The notice shall inform such person of the grounds of suspension, the effective date of the suspension, and the right to review. The notice shall be deemed received three days after mailing. The proposed suspension shall become final 30 days after issuance of notice if the proposed suspension is not appealed as provided in this Code section.

(a) Except as provided for in Code Sections 52-7-12 , 52-7-12.5 , and 52-7-12.6 , and notwithstanding criminal proceedings that may be initiated by law, upon a determination by the department that a person has violated this chapter or any rule or regulation promulgated pursuant thereto, is in noncompliance with a citation issued by another state regarding the operation of a vessel, or is suspended by another state from operating a vessel, the department may suspend such person's privilege to operate a vessel upon the waters of this state for a period of up to two years following the determination of such violation, or if the suspension is due to noncompliance with a citation or a suspension regarding the operation of a vessel in another state, then such person's privilege to operate a vessel upon the waters of this state may remain suspended until satisfactory evidence of compliance or restoration of privileges from the other state has been received by the department as such satisfactory evidence is determined by rules and regulations of the department. Such person shall be notified of the proposed suspension personally or by a letter sent by certified mail or statutory overnight delivery at such person's last known address. The notice shall inform such person of the grounds of suspension, the effective date of the suspension, and the right to review. The notice shall be deemed received three days after mailing. The proposed suspension shall become final 30 days after issuance of notice if the proposed suspension is not appealed as provided in this Code section.

(b) Any person whose privilege is proposed for suspension shall, upon petition within 30 days of issuance of notice given as stated in subsection (a) of this Code section, have a right to a hearing before an administrative law judge appointed by the board. 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. The decision of the administrative law judge shall constitute the final decision of the board, and any party to the hearing, including the department, shall have the right of judicial review thereof in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”

(b) Any person whose privilege is proposed for suspension shall, upon petition within 30 days of issuance of notice given as stated in subsection (a) of this Code section, have a right to a hearing before an administrative law judge appointed by the board. 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. The decision of the administrative law judge shall constitute the final decision of the board, and any party to the hearing, including the department, shall have the right of judicial review thereof in accordance with Chapter 13 of Title 50, the “Georgia Administrative Procedure Act.”

(c) Any person who operates a vessel on any of the waters of this state at a time when such person's privilege to do so has been suspended under this Code section shall be subject to the provisions of subsection (c) of Code Section 52-7-12.6 .

(c) Any person who operates a vessel on any of the waters of this state at a time when such person's privilege to do so has been suspended under this Code section shall be subject to the provisions of subsection (c) of Code Section 52-7-12.6 .
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-16 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-16
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-16
Status: in_force

The corporations named in this chapter shall be subject to state, county, and municipal taxation.
O.C.G.A. § 52-3-12 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 3 / Section 52-3-12
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-3-12
Status: in_force

Neither this chapter, nor any part thereof, nor any grant or deed made under the authority hereof shall operate to divest the State of Georgia of jurisdiction over any lands; and all civil and criminal process issued under the authority of any laws of this state may be executed in or on any part of the lands or premises devoted to the use of the intracoastal waterway or to any use incidental thereto, to the same effect as if this chapter had not been enacted and as if the grant or deed had not been executed.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-32 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-32
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-32
Status: in_force

(a) The rentals contracted to be paid by the state or any department, agency, or institution of the state to the authority under leases entered upon pursuant to this chapter shall constitute obligations of the state for the payment of which the good faith of the state is pledged. Such rentals shall be paid as provided in the lease contracts from funds appropriated for such purposes by the terms of the Constitution of Georgia. It shall be the duty of the state or any department, agency, or institution thereof to see to the punctual payment of all such rentals.

(a) The rentals contracted to be paid by the state or any department, agency, or institution of the state to the authority under leases entered upon pursuant to this chapter shall constitute obligations of the state for the payment of which the good faith of the state is pledged. Such rentals shall be paid as provided in the lease contracts from funds appropriated for such purposes by the terms of the Constitution of Georgia. It shall be the duty of the state or any department, agency, or institution thereof to see to the punctual payment of all such rentals.

(b) In the event of any failure or refusal on the part of lessees punctually to perform any covenant or obligation contained in any lease entered upon pursuant to this chapter, the authority may enforce performance by any legal or equitable process against lessees; and consent is given for the institution of any such action.

(b) In the event of any failure or refusal on the part of lessees punctually to perform any covenant or obligation contained in any lease entered upon pursuant to this chapter, the authority may enforce performance by any legal or equitable process against lessees; and consent is given for the institution of any such action.

(c) The authority shall be permitted to assign any rental due it by the lessees to a trustee or paying agent as may be required by the terms of any trust indenture entered into by the authority.

(c) The authority shall be permitted to assign any rental due it by the lessees to a trustee or paying agent as may be required by the terms of any trust indenture entered into by the authority.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-11 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-11
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-11
Status: in_force

(a) The commissioners shall prescribe rules and regulations for the government of pilots and the fees which may be charged for their services and shall, from time to time, revise and grade pilotage fees when, in their judgment, it is necessary to do so. All rules and regulations consistent with this chapter existing as of January 1, 1995, and all fees prescribed by the commissioners as of January 1, 1995, shall remain in effect until changed as provided in this chapter.

(a) The commissioners shall prescribe rules and regulations for the government of pilots and the fees which may be charged for their services and shall, from time to time, revise and grade pilotage fees when, in their judgment, it is necessary to do so. All rules and regulations consistent with this chapter existing as of January 1, 1995, and all fees prescribed by the commissioners as of January 1, 1995, shall remain in effect until changed as provided in this chapter.

(b) The Board of Pilotage Commissioners for the City of St. Marys, having jurisdiction over areas which include boundary waters, shall be separately empowered to agree, in form, with the Florida State Board of Pilot Commissioners to establish authority for reciprocal pilotage in the port of St. Marys and the tributaries of the St. Marys River.

(b) The Board of Pilotage Commissioners for the City of St. Marys, having jurisdiction over areas which include boundary waters, shall be separately empowered to agree, in form, with the Florida State Board of Pilot Commissioners to establish authority for reciprocal pilotage in the port of St. Marys and the tributaries of the St. Marys River.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-51 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-51
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-51
Status: in_force

Any pilot boat which places a pilot on board a vessel for the purpose of conducting it into any of the rivers or harbors mentioned in this chapter shall be entitled to one-third of the inward pilotage fee and any pilot boat which takes a pilot off of a vessel shall be entitled to one-third of the outward pilotage fee.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-23 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-23
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-23
Status: in_force

Whenever the authority determines to issue its bonds or other obligations, it shall obtain the approval of the Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission and otherwise comply with the provisions of Article 2 of Chapter 17 of Title 50, the "Georgia State Financing and Investment Commission Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-38 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-38
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-38
Status: in_force

All matters concerning the assessment of fines or penalties against pilots or other persons, the suspension or revocation of pilot licenses, and any other matter relating to the use, business, or care of a pilot in any of the harbors shall be heard and determined by the commissioners, or a majority of them, appointed for the care of the pilotage where the violation, damage, or dispute may arise, upon reasonable notice to the pilot, pilots, or other persons concerned and an opportunity for the pilot, pilots, or other persons to be heard. The commissioners are authorized by their decree or order to decide and regulate every such matter, to assess fines and penalties, and to suspend or revoke licenses. They shall have the power to enforce the decree or order by execution or warrant of distress, under their hands and seals or under the hands and seals of any three of them, directed to any sheriff or constable of the county where the execution issues and commanding the sale of the offender's goods, or so much of them as may be necessary to satisfy the execution or warrant. All sales thereunder shall be made in conformity with the laws of the state in relating to sheriffs' sales. The sheriff and constable shall be liable to be ruled before the judge of the superior court as in other cases for default in duly executing such process.
O.C.G.A. § 52-10-3 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 10 / Section 52-10-3
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-10-3
Status: in_force

Any private corporation hereafter organized under the laws of this state for the purpose of establishing, operating, and maintaining a foreign trade zone in accordance with the act of Congress referred to in Code Section 52-10-2 is authorized to make application for the privilege of establishing, operating, and maintaining a foreign trade zone in accordance with the said act of Congress.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-4 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-4
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-4
Status: in_force

There is created a body corporate and politic, to be known as the Georgia Ports Authority, which shall be deemed to be an instrumentality of the State of Georgia and a public corporation; and by that name, style, and title the authority may contract and be contracted with, sue and be sued, implead and be impleaded, and complain and defend in all courts.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-47 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-47
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-47
Status: in_force

A pilot bringing a vessel into port or a pilot who has tendered his or her services outside the bar to a vessel which is required under this chapter to accept the services of a pilot shall be entitled to the payment of fees for inward, outward, and all other movements of the vessel within the waters of the port, subject to the commissioners' regulations, before the vessel leaves the port and may require the vessel to give adequate security therefor, to be approved by the commissioners, before the vessel leaves the port. If the payment is not made or the security is not given, no pilot shall be required to take the vessel out. The master, owner, or agent of any vessel which is in readiness to leave must, if possible, give notice of that fact to the commissioners at the port in question or to its authorized representative. The acceptance of security for pilotage fees shall in no way affect the lien specified in Code Section 52-6-49 , given in case the fees are not paid.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-33 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-33
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-33
Status: in_force

The existence of a structure as defined in this article is declared to be a public nuisance and unlawful.
O.C.G.A. § 52-2-20 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 2 / Section 52-2-20
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-2-20
Status: in_force

The authority may sell such bonds in such manner and for such price as it may determine to be for the best interests of the authority. The proceeds of the bonds shall be used solely for the payment of the costs of the project or projects and shall be disbursed upon requisition or order of the chairman of the authority under such restrictions, if any, as the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds or the trust indenture hereinafter mentioned in this chapter may provide. If the proceeds of the bonds, by error of calculation or otherwise, shall be less than the cost of the project or projects, unless otherwise provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds or in the trust indenture, additional bonds may in like manner be issued to provide the amount of the deficit, which, unless otherwise provided in the resolution authorizing the issuance of the bonds or the trust indenture, shall be deemed to be of the same issue and shall be entitled to payment from the same fund without preference or priority of the bonds first issued for the same purpose. If the proceeds of the bonds of any issue shall exceed the amount required for the purpose for which the bonds are issued, the surplus shall be paid into the fund hereinafter provided for the payment of principal and interest of such bonds.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-53 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-53
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-53
Status: in_force

Pilots for their respective ports shall be honorably retired at age 65 and no pilot who has been so retired shall thereafter be entitled to act as a licensed pilot, provided that no pilot shall be compulsorily retired at age 65 unless there is in effect a pension system for pilots of the port at which he serves.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-11 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-11
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-11
Status: in_force

Any canal company incorporated as provided in this chapter is authorized to allow water to be drawn from its canal for the purpose of propelling machinery, irrigating lands, furnishing water for drinking or fighting fire, or any other purpose that the board of directors may deem proper at any points along the line of the canal and charge for the use of the water.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-46 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-46
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-46
Status: in_force

If any watercraft which is required by this article to have a capacity plate affixed thereto is of such design or construction as to make it impracticable or undesirable to affix such plate, the manufacturer or other person having the responsibility for affixing the plate may represent such impracticability or undesirability in writing to the Department of Natural Resources. Upon determination by the Department of Natural Resources that such representation has merit and that a proper and effective substitute for the capacity plate, which will serve the same purpose, is feasible, the Department of Natural Resources may authorize such alternative compliance. Such alternative compliance shall thereafter be deemed compliance with the capacity plate requirements of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-2 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-2
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-2
Status: in_force

The General Assembly finds and declares that the State of Georgia became the owner of the beds of all tidewaters within the jurisdiction of the State of Georgia as successor to the Crown of England and by the common law. The State of Georgia continues to hold title to the beds of all tidewaters within the state, except where title in a private party can be traced to a valid Crown or state grant which explicitly conveyed the beds of such tidewaters. The General Assembly further finds that the State of Georgia, as sovereign, is trustee of the rights of the people of the state to use and enjoy all tidewaters which are capable of use for fishing, passage, navigation, commerce, and transportation, pursuant to the common law public trust doctrine. Therefore, the General Assembly declares that the protection of tidewaters for use by the state and its citizens has more than local significance, is of equal importance to all citizens of the state, is of state-wide concern, and, consequently, is properly a matter for regulation under the police powers of the state. The General Assembly further finds and declares that structures located upon tidewaters which are used as places of habitation, dwelling, sojournment, or residence interfere with the state's proprietary interest or the public trust, or both, and must be removed to ensure the rights of the state and the people of the State of Georgia to the use and enjoyment of such tidewaters. It is declared to be a policy of this state and the intent of this article to protect the tidewaters of the state by authorizing the commissioner of natural resources to remove or require removal of certain structures from such tidewaters in accordance with the procedures and within the timetable set forth in this article.
O.C.G.A. § 52-1-30 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 1 / Section 52-1-30
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-1-30
Status: in_force

This article shall be known and may be cited as the “Right of Passage Act.”
O.C.G.A. § 52-5-2 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 5 / Section 52-5-2
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-5-2
Status: in_force

Any five or more natural persons may act as incorporators of a corporation to be organized under this chapter by filing a petition in writing, addressed to the Secretary of State, in which shall be stated the names and residences of each of the persons desiring to form the corporation, the name of the navigation company they desire to have incorporated, the amount of the proposed capital stock, the number of years it is to continue, the place where its principal office is to be located, a request to be incorporated under the laws of this state, and that they have given four weeks' notice of their intention to apply for the charter by publication of the petition in one of the newspapers in which the sheriff's advertisements are published for the county once a week for four weeks before filing the petition. There shall be annexed to the petition an affidavit, made by at least three of the persons forming the company, that the names subscribed are the genuine signatures of the persons named therein and that the facts stated in the petition are true to the best of their knowledge, information, and belief. The petition for incorporation, thus sworn to, shall be filed in the office of the Secretary of State, who shall endorse thereon the date of filing and record the same in a book to be kept by him for that purpose, which shall be open to the inspection of the public at all times during the office hours of the Secretary of State.
O.C.G.A. § 52-6-42 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 6 / Section 52-6-42
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-6-42
Status: in_force

In any case where a pilot is suspended or the pilot's license is revoked or where a fine exceeding $150.00 is imposed by the commissioners on a pilot or any other person, the pilot or other person concerned may petition the judge of the superior court of the county where the judgment or sentence of the commissioners was made, setting forth on oath the circumstances of the case. A copy of the petition shall be served upon the chairperson or secretary of the commissioners at least three days before the petition is presented and the commissioners shall be entitled to be heard as to whether there is sufficient ground for the allowance of an appeal. If the judge of the superior court should think there is sufficient ground for the allowance of an appeal, such judge shall issue an order directing an issue to be made between the appellant and the commissioners, which issue shall be tried by a jury at the next term of the superior court, unless good cause is shown for a continuance. If, at the trial, a verdict should be rendered in favor of the appellant, the judge of the superior court shall order that the fine be remitted, that the suspension be canceled, or that the license be restored. Either the appellant or the commissioners may move the court for a new trial and may appeal to the Court of Appeals from the court's order entered upon the motion, as is provided by law in cases of appeal from orders granting or refusing a new trial in common-law cases.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-48 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-48
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-48
Status: in_force

The Board of Natural Resources is authorized to promulgate, issue, and amend rules and regulations necessary to carry out the purposes of this article.
O.C.G.A. § 52-4-5 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 4 / Section 52-4-5
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-4-5
Status: in_force

The petitioners shall constitute the first board of directors; they shall organize by electing one of their number president and such other officers as may be necessary, prescribe rules and bylaws, and open books of subscription for the capital stock.
O.C.G.A. § 52-7-17 — GA Code / Title 52 / Chapter 7 / Section 52-7-17
Georgia Code Title 52. Waters of the State, Ports, and Watercraft § 52-7-17
Status: in_force

(a) The speed of each vessel shall at all times be regulated so as to avoid danger or injury or damage or unnecessary inconvenience, directly or by the effect of the wash or wave raised by the vessel, while in the vicinity of swimming areas, docks, floating boat houses, moored boats, or boats engaged in fishing activities.

(a) The speed of each vessel shall at all times be regulated so as to avoid danger or injury or damage or unnecessary inconvenience, directly or by the effect of the wash or wave raised by the vessel, while in the vicinity of swimming areas, docks, floating boat houses, moored boats, or boats engaged in fishing activities.

(b) No vessel shall be loaded beyond the recommended capacity.

(b) No vessel shall be loaded beyond the recommended capacity.

(c) No person operating any vessel shall allow any person or persons to ride the bow or gunwale of any vessel nor shall any person or persons ride on the bow or gunwale of any vessel unless the vessel is equipped with a railing or some other retaining device on the bow or gunwale, so located that any person or persons might hold to such railing or other retaining device to avoid falling or being thrown overboard. For the purposes of this Code section, eyes or cleats shall not be considered retaining devices.

(c) No person operating any vessel shall allow any person or persons to ride the bow or gunwale of any vessel nor shall any person or persons ride on the bow or gunwale of any vessel unless the vessel is equipped with a railing or some other retaining device on the bow or gunwale, so located that any person or persons might hold to such railing or other retaining device to avoid falling or being thrown overboard. For the purposes of this Code section, eyes or cleats shall not be considered retaining devices.

(d) No vessel shall be operated at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions, and such vessel's operator shall have regard for the actual and potential hazards then existing.

(d) No vessel shall be operated at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the conditions, and such vessel's operator shall have regard for the actual and potential hazards then existing.