reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.101 — Watercraft Safety Program.

86B.101 WATERCRAFT SAFETY PROGRAM.
Subdivision 1.
Safety program.
The commissioner shall continue and expand the comprehensive boat safety and education program. The commissioner shall cooperate with boaters, governmental subdivisions, state agencies, other states, and the federal government in the operation of the program.
Subd. 2.
Youth watercraft safety course.
(a) The commissioner shall establish an educational course and a testing program for personal watercraft and watercraft operators and for persons age 12 or older but younger than age 18 required to take the watercraft safety course. The commissioner shall prescribe a written test as part of the course. A personal watercraft educational course and testing program that emphasizes safe and legal operation must be required for persons age 13 or older but younger than age 18 operating personal watercraft.
(b) The commissioner shall issue a watercraft operator's permit to a person age 12 or older but younger than age 18 who successfully completes the educational program and the written test.
Subd. 3.
Operator's permit.
The commissioner shall issue a watercraft operator's permit to a person who successfully qualifies for a watercraft operator's permit under the boat safety education program.
Subd. 4.
Boat safety education program; reciprocity with other states.
The commissioner may enter into reciprocity agreements or otherwise certify boat safety education programs from other states that are substantially similar to in-state programs. The commissioner shall issue a watercraft operator's permit to a person who provides proof of completion of a program subject to a reciprocity agreement or certified as substantially similar.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 3; 1993 c 310 s 1; 1998 c 400 s 1; 1998 c 401 s 27; 2003 c 28 art 1 s 11
NOTE:
This section is repealed by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 112, effective July 1, 2025. Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 112, the effective date.
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.105 — Sheriff's Safety Program.

86B.105 SHERIFF'S SAFETY PROGRAM.
(a) The sheriff of each county shall maintain a program of search, rescue, buoying or marking, patrol, removal of hazards to navigation, and inspection of watercraft for rent, lease, or hire. The sheriff shall prohibit the use of any watercraft or safety equipment for rent, lease, or hire that does not comply with the standards of safety for the watercraft or equipment prescribed by the commissioner. The sheriff shall investigate watercraft accidents and drownings and report findings to the commissioner on a form prescribed by the commissioner.
(b) The county board may authorize the employment of additional personnel to carry out the provisions of this section.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.106 — Barring Vehicles From Unsafe Ice.

86B.106 BARRING VEHICLES FROM UNSAFE ICE.
(a) Whenever ice conditions on a body of water deteriorate to such an extent that there is substantial danger to persons using motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles and all-terrain vehicles, the sheriff of the county where the body of water is located may prohibit or restrict the use of motorized vehicles on all or a portion of the body of water. If the body of water is located in more than one county, all counties involved must coordinate any prohibitions or restrictions that are imposed. A county sheriff acting under this section shall, as soon as practicable, post all common access sites and publicize the prohibitions or restrictions. The commissioner must be notified immediately and may review and suspend any restrictions imposed. Restrictions may be lifted as soon as conditions warrant.
(b) A person may not operate a motorized vehicle in violation of a prohibition or restriction imposed under this section.
(c) This section does not apply to a person who:
(1) is a member of a sanctioned circuit watercross association and can provide proof of membership;
(2) operates a snowmobile with a silenced exhaust and is practicing for a sanctioned event; and
(3) receives written permission from a conservation officer who must set the date, time, and location of the practice.
History:
1992 c 584 s 1; 1Sp2001 c 2 s 90
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.107 — Removing Submerged Vehicles From State Waters.

86B.107 REMOVING SUBMERGED VEHICLES FROM STATE WATERS.
Subdivision 1.
Definitions.
(a) For purposes of this section, "vehicle" means a motor vehicle as defined in section 97A.015, subdivision 32, or a watercraft as defined in section 86B.005, subdivision 18.
(b) For purposes of this section, "owner" means the registered owner, last registered owner, or legal owner of a vehicle if the vehicle is not registered.
Subd. 2.
Responsibility for removal.
(a) The owner of a submerged vehicle is responsible for removing the vehicle from waters of the state, unless the vehicle is permitted or otherwise exempt from removal. Removal must be completed within 30 days of the vehicle entering the water or being discovered in the water, unless the owner is notified in writing by the political subdivision having jurisdiction that the removal must be completed sooner. Upon request of the political subdivision the commissioner may extend the 30-day time period for removal.
(b) The owner of the vehicle shall report that the vehicle is submerged in a body of water. The owner shall report the date and the circumstances surrounding the submergence to the sheriff of the county where the body of water is located within 48 hours of the vehicle entering the water.
(c) If the vehicle is not removed according to paragraph (a), the political subdivision in whose jurisdiction the lake or watercourse is located shall remove the vehicle. The owner of the vehicle is subject to a civil penalty of not less than twice nor more than five times the costs incurred by the political subdivision to remove, process, and dispose of the vehicle. Civil penalties imposed under this section may be enforced and distributed as provided in section 115A.99.
(d) The owner of a submerged vehicle is not responsible for removal of the vehicle if the vehicle was used without the owner's knowledge. This includes, but is not limited to, the operation of a vehicle that was under the control of a member of the owner's household. If the driver or operator of the vehicle is known, the driver or operator is responsible for removing the vehicle according to this section.
History:
2001 c 185 s 15
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.111 — Navigation Markers And Buoys.

86B.111 NAVIGATION MARKERS AND BUOYS.
Subdivision 1.
Permit for placing navigation hazards.
The commissioner may require that a permit is obtained for the placement of a structure or device determined by the commissioner to constitute a hazard to navigation.
Subd. 2.
Removing and damaging buoys prohibited.
Except as authorized by the commissioner, a person may not obstruct, remove, damage, or destroy a buoy or structure placed in the waters of this state in accordance with this chapter or by authority of the United States.
Subd. 3.
Uniform marking required for buoys.
A person may not place buoys or other waterway markers unless the markers conform with the uniform marking system established by the commissioner.
Subd. 4.
No duty to mark all hazards.
The marking of certain hazards to navigation on, in, or adjacent to the waters of this state by a governmental agency does not incur a duty to mark all navigational hazards by the agency or another agency.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 5
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.115 — Using Docks And Structures For Advertising.

86B.115 USING DOCKS AND STRUCTURES FOR ADVERTISING.
A person may not use a fixed or anchored structure on the waters of this state, not a part of a pier or dock extending from shore, for advertising purposes.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 6; 1992 c 464 art 1 s 11
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.121 — Races, Competitions, And Exhibitions.

86B.121 RACES, COMPETITIONS, AND EXHIBITIONS.
(a) A person may not hold or sponsor any scheduled or public race, regatta, tournament or other competition or exhibition, or trial race on water or ice, whether or not involving watercraft, without first having obtained a written permit from the sheriff of the county where the event is to originate.
(b) The sheriff, in the permit, may exempt watercraft from any of the provisions of this chapter relating to the licensing, operation, and equipment of watercraft while participating in the event authorized.
(c) The county's issuance of a permit under this section does not make the county liable for any injury occurring at the event.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 7; 1992 c 584 s 2; 1997 c 204 s 1
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.125 — Leased Watercraft.

86B.125 LEASED WATERCRAFT.
Subdivision 1.
Safety standards.
The commissioner shall prescribe safety standards for watercraft offered for lease, rent, or hire.
Subd. 2.
Suspending or revoking license.
(a) The commissioner may suspend or revoke the license of a watercraft offered for rent, lease, or hire:
(1) that does not comply with the safety standards for the watercraft; and
(2) for which the watercraft owner fails to keep a record of the name and address of the person renting, leasing, or hiring the watercraft, the license number of the watercraft, the date and time the person takes possession, and the expected time of return of the watercraft.
(b) The record of renting, leasing, or hiring must be preserved for at least six months.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 8
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.13 — Aquatic Invasive Species Prevention Program.

86B.13 AQUATIC INVASIVE SPECIES PREVENTION PROGRAM.
Subdivision 1.
Establishment.
The commissioner shall establish a statewide course in preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species. The commissioner must develop an educational course and testing program that address identification of aquatic invasive species and best practices to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species when moving water-related equipment, as defined under section 84D.01, subdivision 18a.
Subd. 1a.
Training for offenders.
A person who is convicted of or subject to a final order for a violation of chapter 84D involving water-related equipment must successfully complete the training course in subdivision 1 before continuing operation or use of water-related equipment.
Subd. 2.
[Repealed, 1Sp2015 c 4 art 4 s 150]
Subd. 3.
Contracting for services.
The commissioner may contract for services to provide training and testing services under this section.
Subd. 4.
[Repealed, 1Sp2015 c 4 art 4 s 150]
History:
2012 c 272 s 21; 2013 c 121 s 24
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.201 — State Law And Local Ordinance Authority.

86B.201 STATE LAW AND LOCAL ORDINANCE AUTHORITY.
Subdivision 1.
Applying state law.
The provisions of this chapter and of other applicable laws of this state shall govern the operation, equipment, numbering, and all other related matters for a watercraft operated on the waters of this state, or the time when an activity regulated by this chapter may take place.
Subd. 2.
Local authority to adopt ordinance.
(a) This chapter does not limit the authority of a political subdivision of this state to adopt regulations that are not inconsistent with this chapter and the rules of the commissioner relating to the use of waters of this state that are wholly or partly within the territorial boundaries of a county or entirely within the boundaries of a city.
(b) A city of the first class of over 200,000 or the park board of the city may forbid the use of motorboats or boats with attached motors on its lakes.
Subd. 3.
Nonmotorized carry-on access.
A person may access any public waters through public land with a hand-carried nonmotorized watercraft.
Subd. 4.
Construction area restrictions.
The commissioner, after consulting with the governmental units and contractors involved in a construction project, may adopt, by written order, temporary water surface use controls for recreational uses at public construction and maintenance sites that cross or are adjacent to waters of the state for a period of time not to exceed the duration of the construction or maintenance project. Temporary controls adopted under this subdivision are exempt from the rulemaking requirements of chapter 14, and section 14.386 does not apply.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 9; 1997 c 226 s 11; 1Sp2015 c 4 art 5 s 5
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.211 — Water Safety Rules.

86B.211 WATER SAFETY RULES.
The commissioner shall adopt rules that relate to:
(1) the application for, form, and numbering of watercraft licenses;
(2) the size, form, reflectorized material, and display of watercraft license numbers, which must comply with the requirements of the federal watercraft numbering system;
(3) placement and regulation of docks, piers, buoys, mooring or marking devices, and other structures in the waters of this state;
(4) rules of the road for watercraft navigation;
(5) standards for equipment used in the towing of persons on water skis, aquaplanes, surfboards, saucers, and other devices;
(6) standards for lights, signals, fire extinguishers, bilge ventilation, and lifesaving equipment;
(7) standards of safe load and power capacity;
(8) accounting, procedural, and reporting requirements for county sheriff;
(9) designation of swimming or bathing areas;
(10) standards of safety for watercraft offered for rent, lease, or hire;
(11) the use of surface waters of this state by watercraft as provided and in accordance with section 86B.205, subdivision 9, paragraphs (c) and (d), including:
(i) standards and criteria for resolving conflicts in the use of water surfaces by watercraft;
(ii) procedures for dealing with problems involving more than one local governmental unit;
(iii) procedures for local enforcement; and
(iv) procedures for enforcing the restrictions in section 86B.205, subdivision 9, paragraph (c); and
(12) other rules determined by the commissioner to be necessary to implement the provisions of this chapter.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 11; 1991 c 259 s 10
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.30 — Definitions.

86B.30 DEFINITIONS.
Subdivision 1.
Applicability.
The definitions in this section apply to sections 86B.30 to 86B.341.
Subd. 2.
Accompanying operator.
"Accompanying operator" means a person 21 years of age or older who:
(1) is in a personal watercraft or other type of motorboat;
(2) is within immediate reach of the controls of the motor; and
(3) possesses a valid operator's permit or is an exempt operator.
Subd. 3.
Adult operator.
"Adult operator" means a motorboat operator, including a personal watercraft operator, who is 12 years of age or older and who was:
(1) effective July 1, 2025, born on or after July 1, 2004;
(2) effective July 1, 2026, born on or after July 1, 2000;
(3) effective July 1, 2027, born on or after July 1, 1996; and
(4) effective July 1, 2028, born on or after July 1, 1987.
Subd. 4.
Exempt operator.
"Exempt operator" means a motorboat operator, including a personal watercraft operator, who is 12 years of age or older and who:
(1) possesses a valid license to operate a motorboat issued for maritime personnel by the United States Coast Guard under Code of Federal Regulations, title 46, part 10, or a marine certificate issued by the Canadian government;
(2) is not a resident of the state, is temporarily using the waters of the state for a period not to exceed 60 days, and:
(i) meets any applicable requirements of the state or country of residency; or
(ii) possesses a Canadian pleasure craft operator's card;
(3) is operating a motorboat under a dealer's license according to section 86B.405; or
(4) is operating a motorboat during an emergency.
Subd. 5.
Motorboat rental business.
"Motorboat rental business" means a person engaged in the business of renting or leasing motorboats, including personal watercraft, for a period not exceeding 30 days. Motorboat rental business includes a person's agents and employees but does not include a resort business.
Subd. 6.
Resort business.
"Resort business" means a person that is engaged in the business of providing lodging and recreational services to transient guests and that is classified as a resort under section 273.13, subdivision 22 or 25. A resort business includes a person's agents and employees.
Subd. 7.
Young operator.
"Young operator" means a motorboat operator, including a personal watercraft operator, younger than 12 years of age.
History:
2023 c 60 art 4 s 23
NOTE:
This section, as added by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 23, is effective July 1, 2025. Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 23, the effective date.
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.301 — Watercraft Licenses Required.

86B.301 WATERCRAFT LICENSES REQUIRED.
Subdivision 1.
Requirement.
Except as provided in subdivisions 2 and 3, a person may not operate or give permission for the operation of a watercraft that requires a watercraft license on the waters of this state unless:
(1) a watercraft license for the watercraft has been issued and is valid during the period of operation;
(2) the license number is affixed to the watercraft as prescribed by the commissioner; and
(3) a valid registration sticker is affixed to the watercraft as prescribed by the commissioner.
Subd. 2.
Exemptions.
A watercraft license is not required for:
(1) a watercraft that is covered by a license or number in full force and effect under federal law or a federally approved licensing or numbering system of another state, or a watercraft that is owned by a person from another state and that state does not require licensing that type of watercraft, and the watercraft has not been within this state for more than 90 consecutive days, which does not include days that a watercraft is laid up at dock over winter or for repairs at a Lake Superior port or another port in the state;
(2) a watercraft from a country other than the United States that has not been within this state for more than 90 consecutive days, which does not include days that a watercraft is laid up at dock over winter or for repairs at a Lake Superior port or another port in the state;
(3) a watercraft owned by the United States, an Indian tribal government, a state, or a political subdivision of a state, except watercraft used for recreational purposes;
(4) a ship's lifeboat;
(5) a watercraft that has been issued a valid marine document by the United States government;
(6) a waterfowl boat during waterfowl-hunting season;
(7) a rice boat during the harvest season;
(8) a seaplane;
(9) a nonmotorized watercraft ten feet in length or less; and
(10) a watercraft that is covered by a valid license or number issued by a federally recognized Indian tribe in the state under a federally approved licensing or numbering system and that is owned by a member of that tribe.
Subd. 3.
Temporary certificate.
A person may operate a watercraft and allow another person to operate a watercraft for which a temporary license certificate has been issued during the period the certificate is valid.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 12; 2010 c 361 art 4 s 38; 2012 c 277 art 1 s 12; 2013 c 121 s 25; 2017 c 93 art 2 s 38
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.302 — Watercraft Operator's Permit.

86B.302 WATERCRAFT OPERATOR'S PERMIT.
Subdivision 1.
Generally.
The commissioner must issue a watercraft operator's permit to a person 12 years of age or older who successfully completes a water safety course and written test according to section 86B.304, paragraph (a), or who provides proof of completing a program subject to a reciprocity agreement or certified by the commissioner as substantially similar.
Subd. 2.
Issuing permit to certain young operators.
The commissioner may issue a permit under this section to a person who is at least 11 years of age, but the permit is not valid until the person becomes an adult operator.
Subd. 3.
Personal possession required.
(a) A person who is required to have a watercraft operator's permit must have in personal possession:
(1) a valid watercraft operator's permit;
(2) a driver's license that has a valid watercraft operator's permit indicator issued under section 171.07, subdivision 20; or
(3) an identification card that has a valid watercraft operator's permit indicator issued under section 171.07, subdivision 20.
(b) A person who is required to have a watercraft operator's permit must display one of the documents described in paragraph (a) to a conservation officer or peace officer upon request.
Subd. 4.
Using electronic device to display proof of permit.
If a person uses an electronic device to display a document described in subdivision 3 to a conservation officer or peace officer:
(1) the officer is immune from liability for any damage to the device, unless the officer does not exercise due care in handling the device; and
(2) this does not constitute consent for the officer to access other contents on the device.
History:
2023 c 60 art 4 s 24
NOTE:
This section, as added by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 24, is effective July 1, 2025. Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 24, the effective date.
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.303 — Operating Personal Watercraft And Other Motorboats.

86B.303 OPERATING PERSONAL WATERCRAFT AND OTHER MOTORBOATS.
Subdivision 1.
Adult operators.
An adult operator may not operate a motorboat, including a personal watercraft, unless:
(1) the adult operator possesses a valid watercraft operator's permit;
(2) the adult operator is an exempt operator; or
(3) an accompanying operator is in the motorboat.
Subd. 2.
Young operators.
(a) A young operator may not operate a personal watercraft or any motorboat powered by a motor with a factory rating of more than 75 horsepower.
(b) A young operator may operate a motorboat that is not a personal watercraft and that is powered by a motor with a factory rating of less than 75 horsepower if an accompanying operator is in the motorboat.
Subd. 3.
Accompanying operators.
For purposes of this section and section 169A.20, an accompanying operator, as well as the actual operator, is operating and is in physical control of a motorboat.
Subd. 4.
Owners may not allow unlawful use.
An owner or other person in lawful control of a motorboat may not allow the motorboat to be operated contrary to this section.
Subd. 5.
Exception for low-powered motorboats.
Notwithstanding the other provisions of this section, a person of any age may operate a motorboat that is not a personal watercraft that is powered by a motor with a factory rating of 25 horsepower or less without possessing a valid watercraft operator's permit and without an accompanying operator in the motorboat.
History:
2023 c 60 art 4 s 25
NOTE:
This section, as added by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 25, is effective July 1, 2025. Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 25, the effective date.
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.304 — Watercraft Safety Program.

86B.304 WATERCRAFT SAFETY PROGRAM.
(a) The commissioner must establish a water safety course and testing program for personal watercraft and watercraft operators and must prescribe a written test as part of the course. The course must be approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators and must be available online. The commissioner may allow designated water safety courses administered by third parties to meet the requirements of this paragraph and may enter into reciprocity agreements or otherwise certify boat safety education programs from other states that are substantially similar to in-state programs. The commissioner must establish a working group of interested parties to develop course content and implementation. The course must include content on best management practices for mitigating aquatic invasive species, reducing conflicts among user groups, and limiting the ecological impacts of watercraft.
(b) The commissioner must create or designate a short boater safety examination to be administered by motorboat rental businesses, as required by section 86B.306, subdivision 3. The examination developed under this paragraph must be one that can be administered electronically or on paper, at the option of the motorboat rental business administering the examination.
History:
2023 c 60 art 4 s 26
NOTE:
This section, as added by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 26, is effective July 1, 2025. Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 26, the effective date.
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.305 — Youth Operators.

86B.305 YOUTH OPERATORS.
Subdivision 1.
Under age 12.
(a) Except in case of an emergency, a person under age 12 may not operate or be allowed to operate a watercraft propelled by a motor with a factory rating of more than 25 horsepower unless there is present in the watercraft, in addition to the operator, at least one person age 21 or older who is within immediate reach of the controls of the motor. For purposes of section 169A.20, the person age 21 or older, as well as the actual operator, is in physical control of the motorboat.
(b) A person under age 12 may not operate or be allowed to operate a watercraft propelled by a motor with a factory rating of more than 75 horsepower.
Subd. 2.
Age 12 to 17; permit required.
Except as provided in this subdivision, a person age 12 or older and younger than age 18 may not operate a motorboat powered by a motor over 25 horsepower without possessing a valid watercraft operator's permit from this state or from the operator's state of residence unless there is a person age 21 or older in the motorboat who is within immediate reach of the controls of the motor. For purposes of section 169A.20, the person age 21 or older, as well as the actual operator, is in physical control of the motorboat.
Subd. 3.
Owners may not allow certain uses.
An owner of a watercraft may not allow a watercraft to be operated contrary to the provisions of subdivision 2.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 13; 1993 c 269 s 2,3; 1993 c 310 s 2,3; 1996 c 396 s 2,3; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 67; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7
NOTE:
This section is repealed by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 112, effective July 1, 2025. Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 112, the effective date.
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.306 — Motorboat Rental Businesses.

86B.306 MOTORBOAT RENTAL BUSINESSES.
Subdivision 1.
Requirements.
A motorboat rental business must not rent or lease a motorboat, including a personal watercraft, to any person for operation on waters of this state unless the renter or lessee:
(1) has a valid watercraft operator's permit or is an exempt operator; and
(2) is 18 years of age or older.
Subd. 2.
Authorized operators.
A motorboat rental business must list on each motorboat rental or lease agreement the name and age of each operator who is authorized to operate the motorboat or personal watercraft. The renter or lessee of the motorboat must ensure that only listed authorized operators operate the motorboat or personal watercraft.
Subd. 3.
Summary of boating regulations; examination.
(a) A motorboat rental business must provide each authorized operator a summary of the statutes and rules governing operation of motorboats and personal watercraft in the state and instructions for safe operation.
(b) Each authorized operator, other than those holding a valid watercraft operator's permit or an exempt operator, must review the summary provided under this subdivision and must take a short boater safety examination in a form approved by the commissioner before the motorboat or personal watercraft leaves the motorboat rental business premises, unless the authorized operator has taken the examination during the previous 180 days.
Subd. 4.
Safety equipment for personal watercraft.
A motorboat rental business must provide to all persons who rent a personal watercraft, at no additional cost, a United States Coast Guard (USCG) approved wearable personal flotation device with a USCG label indicating it either is approved for or does not prohibit use with personal watercraft or water-skiing and any other required safety equipment.
History:
2023 c 60 art 4 s 27
NOTE:
This section, as added by Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 27, is effective July 1, 2025. Laws 2023, chapter 60, article 4, section 27, the effective date.
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.311 — General Rules For Operation.

86B.311 GENERAL RULES FOR OPERATION.
Subdivision 1.
Safe operation.
A person may not operate or allow the operation of a watercraft or use a device relating to the use of the watercraft:
(1) in a careless or heedless manner in disregard of the rights or safety of others;
(2) in a reckless or grossly negligent manner that causes personal injury to another or damage to the property of another;
(3) upon the waters of this state without the equipment required by this chapter and the rules adopted under this chapter; or
(4) that is loaded with passengers or cargo beyond the watercraft's safe carrying capacity or is equipped with a motor or other propulsion machinery beyond the watercraft's safe power capacity.
Subd. 2.
Obstructing navigation.
A person may not operate a watercraft in a manner that obstructs or tends to obstruct normal and ordinary navigation on the waters of this state.
Subd. 3.
Unauthorized mooring.
A person may not moor, attach, or hold in any manner a watercraft to a buoy or any other marking device or guide placed in the waters of this state pursuant to lawful authority. This subdivision does not apply to a mooring buoy.
Subd. 4.
Swimming or bathing areas.
A person may not operate a watercraft within a water area that has been marked off or set aside as a swimming or bathing area as prescribed by the commissioner's rules.
Subd. 5.
Riding on gunwales or decking.
A person may not ride or sit and a person may not operate a motorboat while a person is riding or sitting on (i) the starboard or port gunwales; (ii) the decking over the bow, sides, or stern; or (iii) the transom, of a motorboat while underway unless the motorboat is provided with adequate guards or railing to prevent passengers from falling overboard.
Subd. 6.
Law enforcement watercraft; emergency lights.
When approaching and passing a law enforcement watercraft with its emergency lights activated, the operator of a watercraft must safely move the watercraft away from the law enforcement watercraft and maintain a slow-no wake speed while within 150 feet of the law enforcement watercraft.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 14; 2002 c 323 s 1; 2009 c 176 art 1 s 20
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.315 — Towing Person On Water Skis Or Other Device.

86B.315 TOWING PERSON ON WATER SKIS OR OTHER DEVICE.
Subdivision 1.
Observer or mirror required.
A person may not operate a watercraft on waters of this state and create a wake for a wake surfer or tow a person on water skis, an aquaplane, a surfboard, a saucer, or a similar device unless:
(1) there is another person in the watercraft in addition to the operator who is in a position to continually observe the person being towed; or
(2) the boat is equipped with a mirror providing the operator a wide field of vision to the rear.
Subd. 2.
Prohibited night activities.
On waters of this state, from one-half hour after sunset to sunrise of the following day, a person may not:
(1) wake surf;
(2) operate a watercraft creating a wake for a wake surfer;
(3) be towed by a watercraft; or
(4) operate a watercraft towing a person on water skis, an aquaplane, a surfboard, a saucer, or another device.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 15; 1Sp2015 c 4 art 5 s 8
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.321 — Noise Limits.

86B.321 NOISE LIMITS.
Subdivision 1.
Operation in excess of noise limits prohibited.
A person may not operate a motorboat under any condition of load, acceleration, or deceleration in a manner that exceeds the noise limits contained in subdivision 2.
Subd. 2.
Noise limits.
(a) The noise limits for the total noise from the marine engine or motorboat may not exceed:
(1) for marine engines or motorboats manufactured before January 1, 1982, a noise level of 84 decibels on the A scale measured at a distance of 50 feet from the motorboat or equivalent noise levels at other distances as specified by the commissioner in a pass-by test or 86 decibels on the A scale measured at idle in a stationary test at least four feet above the water and at least four feet behind the transom of the motorboat being tested; and
(2) for marine engines or motorboats manufactured on or after January 1, 1982, a noise level of 82 decibels on the A scale measured at a distance of 50 feet from the motorboat or equivalent noise levels at other distances as specified by the commissioner in a pass-by test or 84 decibels on the A scale measured at idle in a stationary test at least four feet above the water and at least four feet behind the transom of the motorboat being tested.
(b) The noise limits in paragraph (a) do not preclude enforcement of other laws relating to motorboat noise. The officer or deputy doing the testing shall determine which test or tests shall be used. Failure to pass either the pass-by or stationary idle test is a violation of this section.
(c) Equivalent noise levels under paragraph (a) shall be specified by the commissioner by written order and published in the State Register. The noise level determinations are exempt from the rulemaking provisions of chapter 14, and section 14.386 does not apply.
Subd. 3.
Applicability.
The provisions of this section do not apply to motorboats operating under a permit issued under section 86B.121 or a United States Coast Guard marine event permit in a regatta or 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.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 16; 1993 c 13 art 1 s 22; 2004 c 221 s 25; 2004 c 255 s 24
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.325 — Discharge From Marine Toilets Prohibited.

86B.325 DISCHARGE FROM MARINE TOILETS PROHIBITED.
(a) A person owning or operating a watercraft or other marine conveyance on the waters of this state may not use, operate, or allow the use or operation of a marine toilet or similar device for the disposition of sewage or other wastes unless the toilet wastes are retained for disposition on land by means of facilities constructed and operated in accordance with rules adopted by the state commissioner of health and approved by the Pollution Control Agency.
(b) A person may not:
(1) discharge sewage or other wastes into the waters of this state directly or indirectly from a watercraft or other marine conveyance; or
(2) place, leave, discharge, or cause to be placed, left, or discharged a container of sewage or other wastes into waters of this state by a person whether or not the owner, operator, guest, or occupant of a watercraft or other marine conveyance.
(c) Toilets must be sealed or otherwise rendered inoperative so that human or other waste cannot be discharged from the toilet into waters of this state.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 17
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.33 — Operating While Impaired.

86B.33 OPERATING WHILE IMPAIRED.
Subdivision 1.
Definitions.
For purposes of this section, "controlled substance," "intoxicating substance," and "motorboat in operation" have the meanings given under section 169A.03.
Subd. 2.
Acts prohibited.
(a) An owner or other person having charge or control of a motorboat must not authorize or allow an individual the person knows or has reason to believe is under the influence of alcohol, a controlled substance, or an intoxicating substance to operate the motorboat in operation on waters of the state.
(b) A person who operates or is in physical control of a motorboat on waters of the state is subject to chapter 169A.
(c) The provisions of chapters 169A, 171, and 609 relating to revoking, suspending, or canceling a driver's license, an instruction permit, or a nonresident operating privilege for alcohol, controlled substance, or intoxicating substance violations apply to motorboat operators and to operating privileges for motorboats.
(d) The commissioner of public safety must notify a person of the period during which the person is prohibited from operating a motorboat under section 169A.52, 169A.54, or 171.177.
(e) The court must promptly forward to the commissioner of public safety copies of all convictions and criminal and civil sanctions imposed under chapter 169A and section 171.177.
(f) If the person operating or in physical control of a motorboat is a program participant in the ignition interlock device program described in section 171.306, the motorboat may be operated only if it is equipped with an approved ignition interlock device and all requirements of section 171.306 are satisfied. For purposes of this paragraph, "program participant" and "ignition interlock device" have the meanings given in section 171.306, subdivision 1.
Subd. 3.
Penalties.
(a) A person who violates subdivision 2, paragraph (a), or an ordinance conforming with subdivision 2, paragraph (a), is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(b) A person who operates a motorboat during the period the person is prohibited from operating a motorboat under subdivision 2, paragraph (d), is guilty of a misdemeanor.
History:
1Sp2021 c 6 art 3 s 4
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.335 — Testing For Alcohol And Controlled Substances.

86B.335 TESTING FOR ALCOHOL AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.
Subdivision 1.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 2.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 3.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 4.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 5.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 6.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 7.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 8.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 9.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 10.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 11.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 12.
[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
Subd. 13.
Coroner to report death.
(a) Every coroner or medical examiner shall report in writing to the Department of Natural Resources the death of any person within the jurisdiction of the coroner or medical examiner as the result of an accident involving any watercraft or drowning and the circumstances of the accident. The report shall be made within 15 days after the death or recovery.
(b) In the case of operators killed in watercraft accidents, or the death of passengers or drowning victims 14 years of age or older, who die within four hours after accident, the coroner or medical examiner shall examine the body and shall make tests as are necessary to determine the presence and percentage concentration of alcohol, and drugs if feasible, in the blood of the victim. This information shall be included in each report submitted pursuant to the provisions of this subdivision and shall be tabulated by the Department of Natural Resources. Periodically, the commissioner of natural resources must transmit a summary of the reports to the commissioner of public safety.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 19; 1992 c 570 art 3 s 2-6; 1994 c 615 s 7; 1995 c 185 s 2
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.341 — Duties And Liabilities At Accident Or Incident.

86B.341 DUTIES AND LIABILITIES AT ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT.
Subdivision 1.
Operator's duty at accident or incident.
(a) The operator of a watercraft involved in an accident or incident resulting in injury or death to a person or in damage to property shall, if possible without serious danger to the watercraft or the persons aboard, immediately stop at the scene of the accident or incident and render assistance as may be practicable and necessary.
(b) The operator must give the operator's name, address, and license number of the watercraft and the name and address of the owner of the watercraft to the person injured or the operator or occupants of the other watercraft or owner or occupant of the property involved. The operator must promptly report the accident or incident to the sheriff of the county where the accident or incident occurred. Sheriffs are required to report all accidents and incidents to the commissioner of natural resources, who must periodically transmit a summary of the reports to the commissioner of public safety, and transmit statistics on boating accidents and incidents to the United States Coast Guard.
Subd. 2.
Owner's and operator's liability.
(a) The owner and operator of a watercraft are jointly and severally liable for any injury or damage caused by the negligent operation of a watercraft whether the negligence consists of a violation of the provisions of the statutes of this state or neglecting to observe ordinary care in the operation as the common law requires. The owner is not liable if the watercraft is being operated without the owner's express or implied consent. It is presumed that the operation of a watercraft is with the knowledge and consent of the owner if at the time of the injury or damage the watercraft is under the control of the owner's spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other member of the owner's immediate family.
(b) This subdivision may not be construed to:
(1) relieve other persons from liability which the persons would otherwise have; or
(2) authorize or allow recovery in excess of the injury or damage actually incurred.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 20; 1994 c 615 s 8
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.405 — Dealer's License.

86B.405 DEALER'S LICENSE.
Subdivision 1.
Application.
A dealer may apply for a watercraft dealer license on a form prescribed by the commissioner. A watercraft dealer's license shall be issued to a dealer after receipt of an application and payment of the dealer license fee.
Subd. 2.
Watercraft covered.
Watercraft owned by the dealer may be operated under the dealer's license on the waters of this state without watercraft licenses for demonstration purposes or other purposes incident to the usual and customary conduct of the business of manufacturing, selling, or trading of watercraft.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 22
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.411 — Government Watercraft Licenses.

86B.411 GOVERNMENT WATERCRAFT LICENSES.
The commissioner shall issue distinguishable government watercraft licenses without a fee for watercraft owned by the state or a political subdivision of the state on receipt of an application for the license on a form prescribed by the commissioner.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 23
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.501 — Personal Flotation And Lifesaving Devices.

86B.501 PERSONAL FLOTATION AND LIFESAVING DEVICES.
Subdivision 1.
Personal flotation or lifesaving devices.
(a) Watercraft and waterfowl boats using the waters of this state must be equipped with the number and type of personal flotation or lifesaving devices prescribed by the commissioner.
(b) The commissioner may not:
(1) require sailboards to be equipped with personal flotation or lifesaving devices; or
(2) require persons on sailboards to wear personal flotation or lifesaving devices or have them readily available.
Subd. 2.
Rented watercraft; responsibility for lifesaving devices.
The owner of a business that rents, leases, or hires out watercraft must provide a personal flotation or lifesaving device of the type required by this section for each person on board the watercraft.
Subd. 3.
Grant Allen Law; life jacket required for children.
(a) No person may operate a watercraft under way with a child under ten years of age aboard unless the child is:
(1) wearing an appropriate personal flotation device approved under subdivision 1; or
(2) below the top deck or in an enclosed cabin.
(b) Paragraph (a) does not apply to commercial watercraft where the child is a passenger and the operator is licensed by the state of Minnesota or the United States Coast Guard to carry passengers for hire. Paragraph (a) also does not apply if the watercraft is anchored for the purpose of swimming or diving.
(c) A first violation of this subdivision prior to May 1, 2006, shall not result in a penalty, but is punishable only by a safety warning.
(d) Any violation other than a violation addressed in paragraph (c) is to be considered a petty misdemeanor.
Subd. 4.
Rowing team members; personal flotation devices.
Notwithstanding subdivision 1, a member of a rowing team that is sanctioned by an academic or nonprofit entity is not required to wear or possess, and no local ordinance or rule may require a member of a rowing team to wear or possess, a personal flotation device in a racing shell if a chase boat carrying the devices prescribed under subdivision 1 accompanies the racing shell. The requirement for a chase boat does not apply on waters where it is preempted by federal regulations.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 26; 2005 c 31 s 1; 2010 c 361 art 4 s 39; 2013 c 121 s 26
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.505 — Watercraft Capacity Plates.

86B.505 WATERCRAFT CAPACITY PLATES.
Subdivision 1.
Requirement.
(a) A watercraft 20 feet or less in length manufactured for sale in this state after December 31, 1980, except canoes, kayaks, sailboats, sailboards, and inflatable boats, must have a capacity plate permanently affixed to the watercraft by the manufacturer. The capacity plate must contain information relating to maximum safe carrying and power capacity specifications prescribed by the commissioner. The information contained on the capacity plate must, at a minimum, comply with the established standards and regulations of the United States Coast Guard.
(b) For purposes of this section, "manufacture" means to construct or assemble a watercraft or alter a watercraft in a manner that changes its weight and carrying capacity.
Subd. 2.
Certification of correct information.
The information appearing on a capacity plate is deemed to certify that the manufacturer has correctly and faithfully specified the maximum safe carrying and horsepower capacity and that the information is not a deliberate or negligent misrepresentation.
Subd. 3.
Violation.
A person who does not comply with provisions of this section commits a violation for each watercraft for which this section is not complied with.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 27
2023 Minnesota Statutes › Chapters 85 - 87A — Recreation › Chapter 86B — Water Safety And Watercraft › Section 86B.511 — Lights.

86B.511 LIGHTS.
Except as provided in section 169.541, a watercraft using the waters of this state, when underway or in use between sunset and sunrise, must carry and display the lights prescribed by the commissioner for the watercraft.
History:
1990 c 391 art 9 s 28; 1990 c 555 s 11