It is legal to travel on any navigable stream in Tennessee. But before you do, you should know the rules, so you can avoid hurting someone or ending up in trouble with the law. If you have bought a new boat, your dealer generally will register it for you. TWRA enforces and administers the provisions of the Tennessee Safe Boating Act. Enforcement officers are on the water to assist boaters, enforce laws and provide control.
Every TWRA officer has the authority to stop and board any vessel, issue citations and make arrests.
Boaters who are signaled to stop must do so immediately. It is unlawful to operate any sail or powered vessel while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. As with motor vehicles, anyone operating a sail or powered vessel has given implied consent to a sobriety test. Failure to consent to testing is a separate offense that may result in suspension of operating privileges for six months. People younger than 12 are prohibited from operating any vessel of 8.5 horsepower or larger unless they are under the direct supervision of an adult who can take immediate control of the vessel.