reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 514.

514. If, within 90 days after wrecked property is found, any person claims the property, or its proceeds, and establishes his or her claim by evidence satisfactory to the judge of the superior court, the judge shall make an order directing the officer in whose possession the property or its proceeds may be, to deliver it to the claimant, upon the payment of a reasonable salvage and the necessary expenses of preservation.
(Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 930, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 1998.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 515.

515. Before making the order, the judge shall require from the claimant a bond to the people to be approved by the judge and filed with the clerk of the court, in a penalty double the value of the property or proceeds. The bond shall be conditioned upon the payment of all damages that may be recovered against the claimant or the claimant’s representatives, within three years after its date, by any person establishing title to the property or proceeds.
(Amended by Stats. 2002, Ch. 784, Sec. 511. Effective January 1, 2003.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 516.

516. If the bond becomes forfeited, the judge of the superior court, upon the application, supported by proof of the person entitled to its benefit shall make an order for its prosecution for such person’s benefit, and at his risk and expense.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 517.

517. The rejection by the judge of any claim shall not preclude the claimant from maintaining an action against the officer for the recovery of the property or its proceeds. If the plaintiff prevails, there shall be deducted from the damages, in addition to salvage and expenses, all the defendant’s costs.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 518.

518. If, within 60 days after saving wrecked property, no claimant of the property appears, or, if within 60 days after a claim, the salvage and expenses are not paid, or a suit for the recovery of the property is not commenced, the officer who has custody of the property may sell it at public auction and transmit the proceeds of the sale, after deducting salvage, storage, property tax liens, other liens, and other expenses, to the Treasurer for deposit in the General Fund. Deduction of salvage, storage, and other expenses shall not be made, unless the amount has been determined by the superior court of the county. A copy of the order, and the evidence in its support, shall be transmitted by the judge to the Controller.
(Amended by Stats. 2005, Ch. 311, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2006.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 519.

519. Public notice of every sale of wrecked property under the provisions of this article shall be published by the officer making the sale for at least two weeks in succession in one or more newspapers printed in the county, or if none is printed in the county, then by written or printed notices posted in three of the most public places in the county at least fifteen days previous to the sale. Every notice shall state the time and place of the sale and contain a particular description of the property to be sold.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 520.

520. Every sheriff into whose possession any wrecked property comes, shall forthwith cause to be published for at least two weeks in succession, in one or more of the newspapers printed in this State, a notice directed to all persons interested. The notice shall contain a minute description of the property, and of every bale, box, case, piece, or parcel, and the marks, brands, letters, and figures on each. It shall state:
(a) Where the property then is and its actual condition.
(b) The name, if known, of the vessel from which it came.
(c) The names of its master and super-cargo.
(d) The place where the vessel then is, and its actual condition.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 521.

521. The expense of publishing notices under the provisions of this article is a charge upon the property or proceeds to which it relates.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 524.

524. (a) Any peace officer, as described in Section 663, may store any vessel removed from private property when the vessel is found on, or attached to, private property and a report has previously been made that the vessel has been stolen or a complaint has been filed and a warrant thereon issued charging that the vessel has been embezzled.
(b) Any peace officer, as described in Section 663, may, after a reasonable period of time, remove a vessel from private property if the vessel has been involved in, and left at, the scene of a boating accident and no owner is available to grant permission to remove the vessel. This subdivision does not authorize the removal of a vessel if the owner has been contacted and has refused to grant permission to remove the vessel.
(c) Nothing in this section is intended to expand the territorial jurisdiction of peace officers beyond the provisions of Sections 830.1 and 830.2 of the Penal Code.
(Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 930, Sec. 6. Effective January 1, 1998.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 525.5.

525.5. (a) On or before January 1, 2005, the department shall submit recommendations to the Legislature on strategies to prevent recreational vessels from being abandoned and to facilitate the ability of owners to turn in their recreational vessels to public agencies for disposal in lieu of abandonment.
(b) The recommendations shall be based on the expertise and data available to the department in relation to the existing abandoned watercraft abatement program administered by the department.
(c) The recommendations shall consider all of the following:
(1) The needs and desires of the recreational boating community in being able to properly and economically dispose of recreational vessels in lieu of abandoning them.
(2) Any environmental, economic, safety, or practical problems that need to be addressed before initiating a program to allow recreational vessels to be turned in to a public agency in lieu of abandonment, and the associated benefits of that program or any program that can prevent recreational vessels from being abandoned.
(3) An estimate of the number of vessels that may be turned in to local agencies in lieu of abandonment.
(d) (1) The director shall appoint an Abandoned Vessel Advisory Committee to assist the department in preparing recommendations.
(2) The membership of the committee shall include, but need not be limited to, representatives of all of the following:
(A) Boating law enforcement agencies.
(B) Entities that engage in the salvage or disposal of recreational vessels.
(C) Boat dealers.
(D) Boating, sailing, and yachting organizations.
(E) Owners and operators of public and private marina facilities.
(3) The members of the committee shall serve without compensation and may not be reimbursed by the state for expenses.
(4) The department shall assist the committee in carrying out its duties.
(Added by Stats. 2003, Ch. 357, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2004.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 526.1.

526.1. For purposes of this article, “surrendered vessel” means a recreational vessel that the verified titleholder has willingly surrendered to a willing public agency under both of the following conditions:
(a) The public agency has determined, in its sole discretion, that the vessel is in danger of being abandoned, and therefore has a likelihood of causing environmental degradation or becoming a hazard to navigation.
(b) The decision to accept a vessel is based solely on the potential of the vessel to likely be abandoned and cause environmental degradation or become a hazard to navigation.
(Amended by Stats. 2013, Ch. 204, Sec. 5. (SB 122) Effective January 1, 2014.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 1 - Wrecks and Wrecked Property › Section 527.

527. It is the intent of the Legislature that a sum of not more than one million dollars ($1,000,000) be appropriated from the Harbors and Watercraft Revolving Fund to the Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund for grants to local agencies pursuant to paragraph (1) of subdivision (d) of Section 525 in each fiscal year and that grants from the Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund be matched by not less than a 10-percent contribution from the local agency receiving the grant.
(Added by Stats. 1997, Ch. 930, Sec. 9. Effective January 1, 1998.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 2 - Salvage › Section 530.

530. Sheriffs and all persons employed by them or aiding in the recovery and preservation of wrecked property, are entitled to a reasonable allowance as salvage for their services, and to all expenses incurred by them in their performance, out of the property saved. The officer having the custody of the property shall detain it until the allowance is paid or tendered. But the whole salvage claimed shall not exceed one-half of the value of the property or proceeds on which it is charged, and every agreement, order, or adjustment allowing a greater salvage is void, unless ordered and allowed by the superior court of the county.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 2 - Salvage › Section 531.

531. Every officer to whom an order for the delivery of wrecked property or the payment of its proceeds is directed, shall present to the claimant of the property or proceeds, a written statement of the claims for salvage and expenses. If the claimant refuses to allow that amount, it shall be adjusted as provided in this article.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 2 - Salvage › Section 532.

532. If, in any case, the amount of salvage and expenses is not settled by agreement, on the application of the owner or consignee of the property, or the master or supercargo having charge at the time of the wreck, or of a claimant having an order for the property, or of a person claiming salvage or expenses, the superior court of the county shall determine the amount of salvage and expenses in a summary way, either by itself hearing the allegations and proofs, or by referring the questions to three disinterested freeholders of the county, who shall have the same powers and shall proceed in the same manner as referees in civil actions. Their decisions as to the whole amount and as to the sums to be paid to each person interested shall be entered as the judgment of the court.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 2 - Salvage › Section 533.

533. The fees and expenses of the contest shall be paid by the person upon whose application it was had, and are a charge on the property saved. Each referee is entitled to such per diem and expenses as the court may order.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 2 - Salvage › Section 534.

534. Any person, other than the master, mate, or a seaman of a wrecked vessel, who rescues it, or its appurtenances or cargo from danger, is entitled to a reasonable compensation, to be paid out of the property saved. He shall have a lien for salvage upon the vessel and its appurtenances or cargo, as the case may be. A claim for salvage, as such, can not accrue against any vessel, or its freight, or cargo, in favor of the owners, officers, or crew of another vessel belonging to the same owners; but the actual cost at the time of the services rendered by one such vessel to another, when in distress, are payable through a general average contribution on the property saved.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 3 - Marine Debris › Section 550.

550. For purposes of this article, the following terms have the following meanings:
(a) A “vessel” includes every description of watercraft or other artificial contrivance used, or capable of being used, as a means of transportation by water.
(b) “Marine debris” is a vessel or part of a vessel, including a derelict, wreck, hulk, or part of any ship or other watercraft or dilapidated vessel, that is unseaworthy and not reasonably fit or capable of being made fit to be used as a means of transportation by water.
(Added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 645, Sec. 1. (AB 1323) Effective January 1, 2016.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 3 - Marine Debris › Section 551.

551. (a) (1) Notwithstanding any other law, marine debris that is floating, sunk, partially sunk, or beached in or on a public waterway, public beach, or on state tidelands or submerged lands may be removed and destroyed, or otherwise disposed of, by any state, county, city, or other public agency having jurisdiction over its location or having authority to remove marine debris or solid waste, subject to the following conditions:
(A) The object meets the definition of marine debris in subdivision (b) of Section 550 and has no value or a value that does not exceed the cost of removal and disposal.
(B) If there is no discernible registration, hull identification number, or other identification insignia, a peace officer or authorized public employee securely attaches to the marine debris a notice stating that the marine debris shall be removed by the public agency if not claimed or removed within 10 days.
(C) If there is discernible registration, hull identification number, or other identification insignia, a notice is attached to the marine debris as described in subparagraph (B), and sent to the owner of the marine debris, if known, at the owner’s address of record with the Department of Motor Vehicles, by certified or first-class mail.
(D) The marine debris remains in place for 10 days from the date of attaching the notice to the marine debris or from the date the notice letter was sent, whichever is later, before being removed.
(2) (A) The notice attached to the marine debris shall state the name, address, and telephone number of the public agency providing the notice.
(B) A notice sent to the owner shall contain the information specified in subparagraph (A), and further state that the marine debris will be removed and disposed of within 10 days if not claimed, and that the marine debris may be claimed and recovered upon the payment of the public agency’s costs.
(b) Notwithstanding subdivision (a), marine debris that constitutes a public nuisance or a danger to navigation, health, safety, or the environment may be removed and disposed of immediately, unless the marine debris is whole or not demolished during removal, in which case it shall be maintained or stored for 10 days to permit notification of the owner. If the owner of the marine debris is not identifiable, the marine debris may be immediately destroyed or otherwise disposed of.
(c) Costs incurred by a public agency for removal and disposal of marine debris may be recovered from an owner or any person or entity who placed the marine debris in or on or caused the marine debris to be in or on the public waterway, public beach, or state tidelands or submerged lands through any appropriate legal action in the courts of this state or by administrative action.
(Added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 645, Sec. 1. (AB 1323) Effective January 1, 2016.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 3 - Marine Debris › Section 552.

552. On or before January 1, 2017, the State Lands Commission shall adopt, at a public meeting and after consultation with interested state and local agencies, best management practices for salvage of marine debris. These best management practices shall be published by the State Lands Commission on its Internet Web site. The State Lands Commission may amend the best management practices from time to time by the same process, as the State Lands Commission deems necessary.
(Added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 645, Sec. 1. (AB 1323) Effective January 1, 2016.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 4 - Offenses › Section 570.

570. Any person who keeps any wrecked property, or its proceeds, after the salvage and expenses have been agreed to or adjusted, and the amount paid to him, is punishable by fine not exceeding one thousand dollars, or by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding one year, or both.
(Enacted by Stats. 1937, Ch. 368.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 3 - Wrecks and Salvage › ARTICLE 4 - Offenses › Section 571.

571. (a) A person who takes away any goods from a stranded vessel, or any goods cast by the sea upon the land, or found in a bay or creek, or who knowingly has in his or her possession any goods so taken or found, and does not deliver them to the sheriff of the county where they were found, or notify him or her of his or her readiness to do so within 30 days after they have been taken by him or her or have come into his or her possession, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(b) A person found guilty of a misdemeanor violation of this section shall be subject to a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) or imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed six months, or both that fine and imprisonment.
(Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 610, Sec. 30. (SB 717) Effective January 1, 2010.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 4 - Service of Process › Section 600.

600. As used in this chapter:
(a) “Watercraft” means any boat, ship, barge, craft or floating thing designed for navigation in the water; and
(b) “Nonresident” means a person who is not a resident of this State at the time the accident or collision occurs or at the time a cause of action or claim for relief arises against him, and also means a person who, at the time the accident or collision occurs or at the time a cause of action or claim for relief arises against him is a resident of this State but subsequently becomes a nonresident of this State.
(Added by Stats. 1963, Ch. 1280.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 4 - Service of Process › Section 605.

605. Where the nonresident has died prior to the commencement of a suit, action or proceeding brought pursuant to this chapter service of process shall be made on the executor or administrator of the nonresident in the same manner and on the same notice as is provided in the case of the nonresident. Where a suit, action or proceeding has been duly commenced under the provisions of this chapter by service upon a defendant or respondent who dies thereafter, the court shall allow the suit, action or proceeding to be continued against his executor or administrator upon motion with such notice as the court deems proper.
(Added by Stats. 1963, Ch. 1280.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 4 - Service of Process › Section 606.

606. Proof of compliance with Section 604 shall be made in the event of service by mail by affidavit of the plaintiff or libelant or by affidavit of his attorney showing said mailing, together with the return receipt of the United States post office bearing the signature of the defendant or respondent. The affidavit and receipt shall be appended to the original summons or original citation, which shall be filed with the court from out of which the summons or citation issued within such time as the court may allow for the return of the summons or citation.
In the event of personal service outside this State, compliance with Section 604 may be proved by the return of any duly constituted public officer, qualified to serve like process of and in the state or jurisdiction where the defendant or respondent is found, showing such service to have been made. The return shall be appended to the original summons or original citation which shall be filed as aforesaid.
(Added by Stats. 1963, Ch. 1280.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 4 - Service of Process › Section 608.

608. In the event of service of process pursuant to this chapter upon a nonresident outside this State, the person so served shall have 60 days from receipt of the notice required under Section 604 in which to appear in the suit, action or proceeding in which the summons or citation was issued.
(Added by Stats. 1963, Ch. 1280.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 4.5 - Marinas › Section 630.

630. The operator of every privately or publicly owned marina or small craft harbor, or facilities in connection therewith, furnishing electrical power to slips or berths for use aboard any vessel, may provide facilities for submetering to measure the electrical power actually used by or aboard each vessel and may base charges therefor upon that use including the actual cost of inspection, testing, and registration of submeters that may be charged by any authority having jurisdiction thereof.
(Amended by Stats. 1998, Ch. 205, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 1999.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 650.

650. It is the policy of this state to promote safety for persons and property in and connected with the use and equipment of vessels and to promote uniformity of laws relating thereto.
(Amended by Stats. 1976, Ch. 744.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 650.1.

650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.
(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:
(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.
(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.
(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.
(4) Ship’s lifeboats.
(c) For purposes of this chapter, “subdivision thereof” or “subdivision of the state” includes cities and counties.
(Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 203, Sec. 1. (AB 1682) Effective January 1, 2023.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 651.1.

651.1. As used in this chapter, unless the context clearly requires a different meaning, “bather” or “bathing” means a person floating, swimming, wading, or bodysurfing, with or without the use of a flotation device, including, but not limited to, floating upon or with the aid of a surfboard, paddle board, surfmat, innertube, life preserver, or air mattress, except a flotation device which is designed to be propelled by sail, mechanical means, power, oars, or paddle.
(Added by Stats. 1990, Ch. 975, Sec. 1.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 651.5.

651.5. The Department of Motor Vehicles shall provide every person who originally registers, or who acquires the ownership certificate of, a vessel required to be numbered pursuant to Division 3.5 (commencing with Section 9840) of the Vehicle Code with a copy of guidelines for safe vessel operation prepared by the Department of Boating and Waterways.
(Amended by Stats. 1988, Ch. 216, Sec. 3. Effective June 29, 1988.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 652.

652. (a) The department may issue regulations to do all of the following:
(1) Establish minimum safety standards for boats and associated equipment.
(2) Require the installation, carrying, or using of associated equipment.
(3) Prohibit the installation, carrying, or using of associated equipment that does not conform with safety standards established pursuant to this chapter.
(b) The regulations shall conform with the federal navigation laws or with the navigation rules promulgated by the United States Coast Guard, or any successor thereto.
(c) A person or public agency shall not use or give permission for the use of a vessel that does not carry the equipment or meet the standards established pursuant to this chapter.
(d) A peace officer or harbor police officer authorized to enforce this chapter may order the termination of the operation of a vessel that is found to be unsafe for operation pursuant to Section 6550.5 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations. A violation of an order under this subdivision is a misdemeanor.
(e) A person found guilty of a misdemeanor violation of subdivision (d), or of any regulation adopted by the department pursuant to this section, shall be subject to a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000), imprisonment in a county jail not to exceed six months, or both that fine and imprisonment.
(Amended by Stats. 2010, Ch. 328, Sec. 107. (SB 1330) Effective January 1, 2011.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 652.5.

652.5. (a) The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved for public safety vessels and may be displayed during the day or night whenever the vessel may be engaged in direct law enforcement activities, including, but not limited to, those activities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 663.7, or public safety activities conducted by a fire department or a fire protection district, where identification of a public safety vessel is desirable or where necessary for safety reasons.
(b) That light when used shall be in addition to prescribed lights and day signals required by law.
(c) The display of these blue lights on vessels for other purposes is prohibited.
(d) A vessel approaching, overtaking, being approached, or being overtaken by a moving public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or a vessel approaching a stationary public safety vessel displaying an illuminated blue light, shall immediately slow to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage only, shall alter its course, within its ability, so as not to inhibit or interfere with the operation of the public safety vessel, and shall proceed, unless otherwise directed by the operator of the public safety vessel, at the reduced speed until beyond the area of operation of the public safety vessel.
(e) The operator of a cable ferry shall take whatever reasonable action is necessary to provide a clear course for a public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or both.
(f) For purposes of this section, “public safety vessel” means a law enforcement, a fire department, or a fire protection district vessel.
(Amended by Stats. 2017, Ch. 103, Sec. 1. (AB 78) Effective January 1, 2018.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 654.

654. (a) (1) For the purposes of this section, a “muffler” or “muffler system” is a sound suppression device or system that is designed and installed to abate the sound of exhaust gases emitted from an internal combustion engine and prevents excessive or unusual noise.
(2) For the purposes of this section, an underwater through-the-propeller-hub exhaust outlet system is a muffler system.
(b) A motorized recreational vessel that is operated in or upon the inland waters, or in or upon ocean waters that are within one mile of the coastline of the state shall be equipped at all times with a muffler or a muffler system that is all of the following:
(1) In good working condition.
(2) In constant operation.
(3) Installed in a manner that effectively brings the vessel into compliance with Section 654.05.
(c) This section does not apply to motorized recreational vessels competing under a local public entity or United States Coast Guard permit in a regatta, in a boat race, while on trial runs, or while on official trials for speed records during the time and in the designated area authorized by the permit. In addition, this section does not apply to motorized recreational vessels preparing for a race or regatta if authorized by a permit issued by the local entity having jurisdiction over the area where the preparations occur.
(d) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2005.
(Repealed (in Sec. 1) and added by Stats. 2003, Ch. 496, Sec. 2. Effective January 1, 2004. Section operative January 1, 2005, by its own provisions.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 654.03.

654.03. (a) A person may not manufacture for sale a motorized recreational vessel that is not equipped with a muffler or muffler system, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 654, that brings the vessel into compliance with paragraph (2) of subdivision (a) of Section 654.05, except as authorized under subdivision (b).
(b) A person may manufacture for sale a motorized recreational vessel that is not equipped as required under subdivision (a) if the vessel is designed, manufactured, and sold for the sole purpose of competing in racing events.
(c) A person may not sell a vessel that is exempted under subdivision (b) unless there is compliance with both of the following:
(1) The sales agreement includes a statement that the vessel is designed, manufactured, and sold for the sole purpose of competing in racing events and may not be operated in or upon the inland waters, or in or upon ocean waters that are within one mile of the coastline of the state, except under the conditions described in subdivision (c) of Section 654.
(2) The statement described in paragraph (1) is signed by both the buyer and the seller.
(d) Both the buyer and the seller of a vessel exempted under subdivision (b) shall maintain copies of the sales agreement described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c).
(e) A person may not operate a vessel that is exempted under subdivision (b) unless a copy of the sales agreement described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (c) is on board the vessel.
(f) A person may not operate a vessel that is exempted under subdivision (b) in or upon the inland waters, or in or upon ocean waters within one mile of the coastline of the state, except under the conditions described in subdivision (c) of Section 654.
(g) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2005.
(Added by Stats. 2003, Ch. 496, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 2004. Section operative January 1, 2005, by its own provisions.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 654.05.

654.05. (a) The owner of a motorized recreational vessel that is numbered pursuant to Section 9850 of the Vehicle Code, or that is documented by an agency of the federal government, shall not operate, or authorize the operation of, the vessel in or upon the inland waters, or in or upon ocean waters that are within one mile of the coastline of the state, in a manner that exceeds the following noise levels:
(1) For engines manufactured before January 1, 1993, a noise level of 90 dB(A) when subjected to the Society of Automotive Engineers Recommended Practice SAE J2005 (Stationary Sound Level Measurement Procedure for Pleasure Motorboats).
(2) For engines manufactured on or after January 1, 1993, a noise level of 88 dB(A) when subjected to the Society of Automotive Engineers Recommended Practice SAE J2005 (Stationary Sound Level Measurement Procedure for Pleasure Motorboats).
(3) A noise level of 75 dB(A) measured as specified in the Society of Automotive Engineers Recommended Practice SAE J1970 (Shoreline Sound Level Measurement Procedure). However, a measurement of noise level that is in compliance with this paragraph does not preclude the conducting of a test of noise levels under paragraph (1) or (2).
(b) A law enforcement officer utilizing a decibel measuring device for the purposes of enforcing this section shall be knowledgeable and proficient in the use of that device.
(c) The department may, by regulation, revise the measurement procedure when deemed necessary to adjust to advances in technology.
(d) This section does not apply to motorized recreational vessels competing under a local public entity or United States Coast Guard permit in a regatta, in a boat race, while on trial runs, or while on official trials for speed records during the time and in the designated area authorized by the permit. In addition, this section does not apply to motorized recreational vessels preparing for a race or regatta if authorized by a permit issued by the local entity having jurisdiction over the area where these preparations occur.
(e) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2005.
(Amended by Stats. 2004, Ch. 130, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2005.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 654.06.

654.06. No person shall sell or offer for sale at retail any internal combustion engine for use on any motorized recreational vessel which, when operated, exceeds the following noise levels:
(a) For engines manufactured on or after January 1, 1974, and before January 1, 1976, a noise level of 86 dbA measured at a distance of 50 feet from the motorized recreational vessel.
(b) For engines manufactured on or after January 1, 1976, and before January 1, 1978, a noise level of 84 dbA measured at a distance of 50 feet from the motorized recreational vessel.
(c) For engines manufactured on or after January 1, 1978, a noise level of 82 dbA measured at a distance of 50 feet from the motorized recreational vessel.
(Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 666, Sec. 3. Effective January 1, 1998.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 654.1.

654.1. Boating facilities constructed with funds derived from the state shall be required as a condition for the receipt of such funds to provide shoreside facilities for purposes of emptying waste matter holding tanks from vessels in accordance with needs and standards as established by the department.
(Amended by Stats. 1970, Ch. 1428.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 654.3.

654.3. (a) Each diesel powered vessel operating exclusively in California, engaged in the commercial transport of passengers with the capacity to transport 75 passengers or more, shall use only California diesel fuel formulated as specified in Sections 2281 and 2282 of Title 13 of the California Code of Regulations.
(b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2003.
(Added by Stats. 2000, Ch. 502, Sec. 1. Effective January 1, 2001. Section operative January 1, 2003, by its own provisions.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 654.5.

654.5. A person who maliciously throws, hurls, or projects an object by manual, mechanical, or other means at a vessel or an occupant of a vessel on any of the waters within or bordering on this state, which act does not constitute a violation of either Section 242 or 594 of the Penal Code, is guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon first conviction the punishment shall be a fine not to exceed one thousand dollars ($1,000) or imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed 30 days, or both that fine and imprisonment. Upon a second conviction, the punishment shall be a fine not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000) or imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed 90 days, or both that fine and imprisonment. Upon a third or subsequent conviction, the punishment shall be a fine not to exceed ten thousand dollars ($10,000) or imprisonment in the county jail not to exceed one year, or both that fine and imprisonment.
(Amended by Stats. 2009, Ch. 610, Sec. 32. (SB 717) Effective January 1, 2010.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 655.05.

655.05. (a) No person shall operate a vessel other than a recreational vessel for 24 hours if the person is found by a peace officer to have an alcohol concentration of 0.01 percent or more in his or her blood. The peace officer shall order the person out of service for 24 hours.
(b) This section shall become operative on January 1, 1992.
(Added by Stats. 1989, Ch. 1114, Sec. 6. Section operative January 1, 1992, by its own provisions.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 655.2.

655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:
(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.
(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:
(A) A beach frequented by bathers.
(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.
(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.
(b) This section does not apply to the following:
(1) Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels engaged in public safety activities.
(2) Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.
(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.
(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.
(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:
(1) “Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel” means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.
(2) “Public safety activities” include public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.
(Amended by Stats. 2022, Ch. 203, Sec. 2. (AB 1682) Effective January 1, 2023.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 655.3.

655.3. The department may adopt regulations to establish and maintain for the use of vessels and the equipment on vessels on the waters of this state rules of the road and pilot rules in conformity with those contained in the federal navigation laws or the navigation rules promulgated by the United States Coast Guard.
(Amended by Stats. 1997, Ch. 666, Sec. 4. Effective January 1, 1998.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 655.4.

655.4. (a) No person shall serve as a crew member on any charter boat while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, or the combined influence of intoxicating liquor and any drug.
(b) No person shall serve as a crew member on any charter boat while under the influence of intoxicating liquor, any drug, or under the combined influence of intoxicating liquor and any drug, and while so serving, do any act forbidden by law, or neglect any duty imposed by law in the use of the vessel, which act or neglect proximately causes bodily injury to any person other than himself or herself.
(Added by Stats. 1987, Ch. 910, Sec. 1.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 655.5.

655.5. (a) Whenever a person convicted of any violation of subdivision (b), (c), (d), (e), or (f) of Section 655 is found by the court to have willfully refused the request of a peace officer to submit to chemical testing of the blood, breath, or urine pursuant to Section 655.1, the court may impose enhanced penalties either by fine or imprisonment, or both, not to exceed the maximum of the penalties prescribed in Section 668.
(b) A willful refusal to submit to chemical testing pursuant to subdivision (a) shall be pled and proven.
(c) This section shall become operative on January 1, 1992.
(Repealed (in Sec. 9) and added by Stats. 1989, Ch. 1114, Sec. 10. Section operative January 1, 1992, by its own provisions.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 655.6.

655.6. (a) It is an infraction for a person under the age of 21 years who has 0.01 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood to operate any motorized vessel or manipulate water skis, an aquaplane, or a similar device.
(b) A person may be found to be in violation of subdivision (a) if the person was, at the time of operating any motorized vessel or manipulating water skis, an aquaplane, or a similar device, under the age of 21 years and under the influence of, or affected by, an alcoholic beverage regardless of whether a chemical test was made to determine that person’s blood-alcohol concentration and if the trier of fact finds that the person had consumed an alcoholic beverage and was operating any motorized vessel or manipulating water skis, an aquaplane, or a similar device while having a concentration of 0.01 percent or more, by weight, of alcohol in his or her blood.
(c) Section 655.1 applies to violations of this section.
(d) A violation of this section is punishable by a fine not exceeding one hundred dollars ($100). A second violation occurring within one year of a prior violation which resulted in a conviction is punishable by a fine not exceeding two hundred dollars ($200). A third or any subsequent conviction within a period of one year of two or more prior infractions which resulted in convictions is punishable by a fine not exceeding two hundred fifty dollars ($250). A person found to have committed a violation of this section shall be required to participate in an alcohol education or community service program as provided in Section 23502 of the Vehicle Code.
(Amended by Stats. 1998, Ch. 118, Sec. 1.2. Effective January 1, 1999. Operative July 1, 1999, by Sec. 85 of Ch. 118.)
2023 California Code › Harbors and Navigation Code - HNC › DIVISION 3 - VESSELS › CHAPTER 5 - Operation and Equipment of Vessels › ARTICLE 1 - Operation and Equipment › Section 655.7.

655.7. (a) A person operating a personal watercraft equipped by the manufacturer with a lanyard-type engine cutoff switch shall attach the lanyard to his or her person, clothing, or personal flotation device, as appropriate for the specific vessel.
(b) No person shall operate a personal watercraft equipped by the manufacturer with a self-circling device if the self-circling device or engine throttle has been altered in any way that would impede or prevent the self-circling device from operating in its intended manner.
(c) Every personal watercraft shall, at all times, be operated in a reasonable and prudent manner. Maneuvers that unreasonably or unnecessarily endanger life, limb, or property, including, but not limited to, jumping or attempting to jump the wake of another vessel within 100 feet of that other vessel, operating the personal watercraft toward any person or vessel in the water and turning sharply at close range so as to spray the vessel or person, or operating at a rate of speed and proximity to another vessel so that either operator is required to swerve at the last minute to avoid collision, is unsafe or reckless operation of a vessel.
(d) A person shall not operate a personal watercraft at any time between the hours from sunset to sunrise. This subdivision does not apply to marine patrol, harbor police, or emergency personnel in the performance of their duties.
(e) This section does not apply to a performer who is engaged in a professional exhibition or to a person who is participating in a regatta, race, marine parade, tournament, exhibition, or other event sanctioned by the United States Coast Guard or authorized by a permit issued by the local entity having jurisdiction over the area where the event is held.
(f) Any violation of this section is an infraction.
(Amended by Stats. 2014, Ch. 54, Sec. 5. (SB 1461) Effective January 1, 2015.)