reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:3 - Motorboats Towing Water Skiers and Aquaplanes.

270-D:3 Motorboats Towing Water Skiers and Aquaplanes. –
I. (a) No person shall operate a motorboat while towing water skiers, aquaplanes, or similar devices, or while engaged in wake surfing, unless another person is present in the motorboat who is physically able to observe and assist the person or appurtenance being towed or wake surfing. The observer shall be 13 years of age or older.
(b) For water skiers only, an observer shall not be required if the motorboat is a tow boat that has been approved by the American Water Ski Association and operated by a person at least 18 years of age. The motorboat shall be equipped with a wide-angle mirror having a viewing surface of at least 48 square inches and operated within a slalom course approved by the American Water Ski Association. The course shall have a valid state police permit.
II. The operator of the motorboat shall be responsible for compliance with the navigation requirements under this subdivision for both the vessel and the person or appurtenance being towed or wake surfing. In addition, any person being towed by or wake surfing behind a motorboat shall comply with all navigation rules.
III. No more than 6 persons may be towed on one or more inflatable tubes and no more than 2 persons may be towed on water skis, aquaplanes, or other devices from the same motorboat at the same time. When 3 or more persons are being towed, 2 observers, in addition to the operator, shall be in the towing vessel. Such observers shall be 13 years of age or older. Notwithstanding this paragraph, more than 2 skiers may be towed if a special permit is issued by the director.
IV. Except in connection with water events and exhibitions authorized by the director, no towing of water skiers, aquaplanes or similar devices shall be conducted during the period between sunset and sunrise. In addition, no person shall operate a boat engaged in wake surfing during the period between sunset and sunrise.
V. No person shall be towed on water skis or other appurtenances unless the person is wearing a Coast Guard approved type 1, 2, or 3 PFD, except when directly participating or competing in an American Water Ski Association approved event or exhibition, authorized by a special permit issued by the director of state police.
VI. No person shall engage in wake surfing unless such person is wearing a Coast Guard approved PFD.
VII. No person shall operate a motorboat propelled by an outboard motor, inboard/outboard motor, or water jet while a person is wake surfing in or on the wake of such motorboat, unless the propulsion system is designed by the manufacturer for that activity.
Source.
1990, 171:1. 1994, 200:1, eff. May 24, 1994. 2011, 224:270, eff. July 1, 2011. 2012, 168:1, eff. June 7, 2012. 2015, 26:1, eff. July 6, 2015. 2021, 129:2, eff. Sept. 21, 2021.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:4 - Permit for Water Events.

270-D:4 Permit for Water Events. –
Any person who undertakes any of the following activities on the public waters of the state shall first obtain a permit from the commissioner, subject to such conditions as he shall establish by rule:
I. Sponsor a water event, including but not limited to, a carnival or exhibition.
II. Place a water ski jump.
III. Tow a kit glider or parasail.
IV. Tow more than 2 skiers.
Source.
1990, 171:1, eff. June 26, 1990.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:4-a - Participation in Water Event; Failure to Disperse; Penalties.

270-D:4-a Participation in Water Event;  Failure to Disperse;  Penalties. –
Any person who participates in a water event for which a permit has not been issued as required by RSA 270-D:4, shall be guilty of a violation and fined not less than $100. Any person who continues to participate in or refuses to disperse from the location of such an event after being ordered by a marine patrol officer or other local, county, or state law enforcement officer to cease participation and disperse shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Source.
2006, 283:4, eff. June 15, 2006.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:5 - Overloading.

270-D:5 Overloading. –
No vessel shall be operated while carrying passengers or cargo beyond its safe carrying capacity, taking into consideration weather and other operating conditions.
Source.
1990, 171:1, eff. June 26, 1990.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:6 - Inspections.

270-D:6 Inspections. –
All vessels afloat on public waters may be inspected by the commissioner or his duly authorized representative, to determine their seaworthiness and safety equipment at any time. No person shall allow any vessel which fails to pass such inspection to be used or operated on the waters of this state until brought into compliance.
Source.
1990, 171:1, eff. June 26, 1990.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:7 - Riding on Gunwales, Bow and Transom.

270-D:7 Riding on Gunwales, Bow and Transom. –
No person shall operate a motorboat or ride as a passenger in a motorboat while sitting on either the starboard or port gunwales or the transom, and no person shall straddle the bow while the motorboat is in operation underway.
Source.
1990, 171:1, eff. June 26, 1990.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:7-a - Shore Lights.

270-D:7-a Shore Lights. –
No person shall display, at any point on the shore visible from the water, any lights deemed by the division of state police, marine patrol bureau to resemble in color or configuration the required navigation lights of any vessel.
Source.
2006, 283:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2007. 2019, 90:1, eff. June 18, 2019.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:8 - Rulemaking.

270-D:8 Rulemaking. –
The commissioner shall adopt rules, pursuant to RSA 541-A, regarding:
I. Special permits to be issued under RSA 270-D:4.
II. Inspection of vessels under RSA 270-D:6.
Source.
1990, 171:1, eff. June 26, 1990.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:9 - Penalties.

270-D:9 Penalties. –
Any person who violates any provisions of this chapter or any rule adopted under RSA 270-D:8 shall be guilty of a violation.
Source.
1990, 171:1, eff. June 26, 1990.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:10 - Certificate Required.

270-D:10 Certificate Required. –
I. No person shall operate a motorized vessel with any type of power motor in excess of 25 horsepower on the public waters of this state without first obtaining a certificate of boating safety education in accordance with this subdivision.
II. The commissioner may enter into contracts with individuals, public or private corporations or institutions for assistance in developing, assisting, and conducting safe boater education courses.
III. The commissioner shall establish minimum requirements for the qualification of safe boater education instructors. The minimum requirements shall include, but not be limited to, the following:
(a) The instructor shall be 18 years of age or older.
(b) The instructor shall have at least 2 years of recent boating experience.
(c) The instructor shall hold a certificate evidencing successful completion of a safe boater education course that meets or exceeds the requirements of this subdivision, a certificate from the United States Coast Guard, or a certificate from the United States Power Squadron.
IV. The commissioner may appoint one or more training specialists who shall assist in establishing safe boater education courses throughout the state, support and implement program guidelines and supervise instructors.
V. In establishing the safe boater education course of instruction and examination pursuant to this section, the commissioner may offer a correspondence course through electronic or other means that is consistent with the applicable standard of competency and safety established by this section.
Source.
2000, 52:3. 2002, 272:2, eff. May 18, 2002. 2021, 204:2, Pt. V, Sec. 1, eff. Aug. 10, 2021.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:11 - Possession Required; Penalty.

270-D:11 Possession Required;  Penalty. –
I. Any person required to have a safe boater education certificate shall:
(a) Possess the certificate when operating a motorized vessel with any type of power motor in excess of 25 horsepower on the public waters of the state.
(b) Present the certificate upon the demand of a marine patrol officer.
II. No person charged with a violation of this section shall be convicted if, within a period of 48 hours, the person presents to the officer evidence that he or she held a valid safe boater education certificate which was in effect at the time of the violation.
III. Enforcement of this section shall be accomplished only as a secondary action when an operator of a motorized or registered vessel has been cited, charged with, or issued a written warning for a violation or some other offense, or as a primary action when an operator is involved in an accident.
IV. Any person who violates this section shall be guilty of a violation punishable by a fine of $50 for a first offense and $250 for any subsequent offense.
Source.
2000, 52:3. 2002, 272:3, eff. May 18, 2002. 2011, 149:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2012.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:12 - Exemption.

270-D:12 Exemption. –
A person who is licensed by the state of New Hampshire or the United States Coast Guard to operate a commercial vessel shall be exempt from the requirements of this subdivision.
Source.
2000, 52:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2002.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:13 - Issuance of Safe Boater Education Certificate.

270-D:13 Issuance of Safe Boater Education Certificate. –
I. The commissioner or designee shall issue a safe boater education certificate to a person 16 years of age or older who:
(a) Passes a safe boater education course approved by the commissioner in accordance with the criteria of the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators. A classroom course shall provide a minimum of 8 hours of instruction. Passage of a safe boater education course shall require successful completion of a proctored examination approved by the commissioner. The minimum passing grade for the examination shall be 80 percent; or
(b) Passes a safe boater equivalency examination administered by persons approved to offer boating safety education courses. The minimum passing grade for the examination shall be 80 percent. A certificate issued to a person passing the equivalency examination shall specify that the certificate is issued as evidence of satisfactory completion of a safe boater examination and entitles the holder to operate a vessel on the public waters of New Hampshire.
II. Once issued, the certificate of safe boater education shall be valid for the lifetime of the person and may not be revoked by the department of safety or a court without cause and a hearing in accordance with RSA 541-A.
III. The commissioner, or designee, shall replace a lost or destroyed certificate upon written request of the person entitled thereto and payment of the prescribed fee, and such copy shall have the same form and effect as the original.
IV. Any person who successfully completes a safe boater education course or safe boater equivalency examination after reaching the age of 15 shall be issued a safe boater education certificate upon attaining the age of 16.
Source.
2000, 52:3. 2002, 272:4, 5. 2006, 283:2, eff. Jan. 1, 2007. 2010, 42:1, eff. May 18, 2010. 2022, 8:1, eff. Mar. 18, 2022.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:14 - Temporary Certificate.

270-D:14 Temporary Certificate. –
The commissioner, or designee, shall issue a temporary certificate of safe boating education to a person 16 years of age or older who passes a temporary safe boater examination administered by the department or its agents and approved by the commissioner. The temporary certificate of safe boater education shall be valid for up to 14 days and shall entitle the holder only to operate a vessel on the public waters of New Hampshire. No person shall receive more than one temporary certificate of safe boating education in any calendar year. Any dealer or renter of boats or employee thereof, who has passed the boating safety education course as provided in RSA 270-D:13, I(a) and is approved by the commissioner, may administer the temporary safety examination and issue a temporary certificate. If the commissioner finds that a person administering a temporary safe boater examination has assisted the person taking the examination, the commissioner shall permanently revoke the authority of the administrator to issue certificates and administer examinations.
Source.
2000, 52:3. 2002, 272:6. 2006, 283:5, eff. June 15, 2006.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:15 - Certificate Not Required.

270-D:15 Certificate Not Required. –
A person shall not be required to obtain a certificate of boating safety education if the person holds a certificate from any state indicating successful completion of boating safety education that meets or exceeds the requirements of this subdivision, a certificate from the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, a certificate from the United States Power Squadron, or a Canadian certificate approved by Transport Canada and approved by the National Association of State Boating Law Administrators.
Source.
2000, 52:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2002. 2010, 42:2, eff. May 18, 2010.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:16 - Education Material.

270-D:16 Education Material. –
Upon request, the commissioner or agent authorized by the commissioner shall provide safe boater education materials to persons who plan to take the safe boater education course.
Source.
2000, 52:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2002.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:17 - Fees.

270-D:17 Fees. –
I. (a) The department shall charge a fee of $10 for issuing a safe boater education certificate.
(b) The fee for a temporary certificate shall be $10.
II. (a) The department may charge a fee for offering a safe boater education course or exam. The fee shall not exceed the costs incurred by the department in offering the course or exam.
(b) Agents of the department may charge a fee for offering a safe boater education course or exam. The commissioner shall establish by rule the maximum fees that may be charged by agents.
III. The total of all fees that a person may be required to pay under this section shall not exceed $50.
IV. Fees collected by the department under this section shall be paid into the navigation safety fund established under RSA 270-E:6-a.
Source.
2000, 52:3. 2002, 272:7. 2006, 283:6, eff. June 15, 2006.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:18 - Insurance Discount.

270-D:18 Insurance Discount. –
The insurance commissioner may adopt rules under RSA 541-A requiring admitted insurers to provide a reduction in premium rates for vessel liability insurance to qualified vessel operators who provide proof of successful completion of an approved safe boater education course.
Source.
2000, 52:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2002.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:19 - Voluntary Attendance.

270-D:19 Voluntary Attendance. –
Nothing in this chapter shall prohibit any person who is 16 years of age or older from attending a safe boater education course approved by the commissioner under this subdivision and obtaining a safe boater education certificate upon successful completion of the safe boater education course, prior to dates indicated on the phase-in schedule.
Source.
2000, 52:3. 2002, 272:8, eff. May 18, 2002.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:20 - Rulemaking.

270-D:20 Rulemaking. –
The commissioner shall adopt rules, pursuant to RSA 541-A, relative to:
I. Approval of boating safety education courses.
II. Criteria for boating safety equivalency examinations.
III. The enforcement of provisions of this subdivision and the rules adopted pursuant to it.
Source.
2000, 52:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2002.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-D - Boating and Water Safety on New Hampshire Public Waters › Section 270-D:21 - Repealed by 2018, 129:2, eff. Nov. 1, 2018.

270-D:21 Repealed by 2018, 129:2, eff. Nov. 1, 2018. –
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:1 - Statement of Purpose.

270-E:1 Statement of Purpose. –
It is the intent of the general court in this chapter to establish a uniform fee structure and numbering system for all boats using the public waters of the state of New Hampshire, which includes inland waters as well as tidal and coastal waters. This chapter specifies which boats are subject to the boat fee and registration fee, how these revenues are to be allocated and used, and how the registration numbers are displayed.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:3 - Registration Required.

270-E:3 Registration Required. –
I. No person shall put, place, or operate a vessel on any waters of the state, including tidal and coastal waters and all inland waters, unless the vessel is registered as required in this chapter or is exempt as provided in RSA 270-E:4.
II. The department shall furnish a registration certificate or temporary registration certificate and a vessel number to any person who meets the registration requirements. The certificate shall be kept upon the vessel at all times it is being operated, and the certificate shall be open to examination by any duly authorized representative of the department, peace officer, fish and game officer, or representative of the Pease development authority, division of ports and harbors upon request. A person who refuses to produce the certificate upon request or who fails to keep the certificate on the vessel shall be guilty of a violation.
III. Application for registration shall be in such form and contain such information as the commissioner shall determine. The fees required by RSA 270-E:5 shall accompany the application. The application shall request the principal use of the vessel and ask whether the vessel is to be registered for tidal and coastal waters. The application shall also contain the following statements:
(a) "Mark the principal use of this vessel, check only one box."
(b) "If this application is for a boat with temporary or permanent sleeping and toilet facilities (houseboat) and it will be moored at one location in New Hampshire, state where it will be moored. If it is not to be moored at one location in New Hampshire, notification to the New Hampshire department of environmental services of the places of mooring of the houseboat is required in accordance with the provisions of RSA 270-A."
IV. Every application for the registration of a vessel subject to the boat fee imposed by RSA 72-A:2 shall be accompanied by a receipt showing the payment of the fee or the fee required by RSA 72-A:2.
V. All registrations issued under this chapter shall expire on December 31 next following the date of issuance unless sooner terminated by the department.
VI. [Repealed.]
VII. The department shall issue decals consistent with the federal vessel numbering system indicating the expiration of the registration.
VIII. The commissioner may authorize any person to act as an agent of the department for the purpose of processing registration applications.
IX. The department shall furnish joint registration numbers to any person registering a primary vessel and a tender vessel. The tender vessel shall bear the same registration number as the primary vessel followed by a dash and the numeral one, written as "-1".
Source.
1990, 229:1. 1994, 38:3. 1995, 199:1. 1996, 228:108. 2000, 55:3. 2001, 290:13, eff. July 1, 2001. 2014, 240:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2015. 2015, 242:8, eff. Sept. 11, 2015.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:4 - Exemptions From Registration.

270-E:4 Exemptions From Registration. –
The following vessels shall be exempt from registration in this state:
I. Sailboats under 12 feet in length, rowboats and canoes powered by sail, oars, paddles, or other human power. Any vessel which has an inboard or outboard motor shall not be exempt from registration except as provided in paragraph II.
II. Vessels registered in another state or country temporarily using the waters of this state for not more than 30 consecutive days.
III. Vessels owned or operated by the United States government.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:5 - Registration Fees.

270-E:5 Registration Fees. –
I. The registration fees for commercial, private, and pleasure vessels, including rentals and airboats shall be as follows:
(a) Up to and including 16 feet
$24
(b) 16.1 feet to 21 feet
$34
(c) 21.1 feet to 30 feet
$52
(d) 30.1 feet to 45 feet
$72
(e) 45.1 feet and over
$92
II. In addition to the fees required by paragraph I there shall be the following registration fees:
(a) $9.50 for each registration specified in paragraph I. The fees collected under this subparagraph shall be paid into the lake restoration and preservation fund established under RSA 487:25.
(b) $1 for each registration required by this section. The fees collected under this subparagraph shall be paid into the fish and game search and rescue fund established under RSA 206:42.
(c) $5 for each registration processed by an authorized agent of the department who is not an employee of the department. The fees collected under this subparagraph shall be collected and retained by the authorized agent as compensation for processing the registration.
(d) $5 for each registration specified in paragraph I. The surcharge collected under this subparagraph shall be paid into the statewide public boat access fund established under RSA 233-A:13.
(e) $2 for each registration for tidal or coastal waters. The surcharge collected under this subparagraph shall be paid into the harbor dredging and pier maintenance fund established under RSA 12-G:46.
III. A vessel manufacturer or dealer, or a person engaged in vessel repair maintenance, shall pay $5 to the department for an initial registration certificate, and $3 for each additional registration certificate.
IV. The department may issue refunds of the state portion of the registration fee to registrants in cases where a registrant has inadvertently registered the same vessel twice within the same registration period or has overpaid a registration fee or if there is evidence the decals and registration have not been used. Such request shall be submitted within 90 days from the date of registration.
V. A person may obtain a duplicate vessel registration certificate for his or her vessel upon application to the department and payment of a $15 fee.
Source.
1990, 229:1. 1992, 265:7. 1997, 185:1. 2000, 55:7. 2002, 201:1. 2008, 282:6. 2009, 144:144-146, eff. Aug. 28, 2009. 2014, 231:1, eff. Jan. 1, 2015. 2015, 212:1, eff. July 1, 2015; 243:2, eff. Jan. 1, 2016.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:6 - Exemption From Registration Fees.

270-E:6 Exemption From Registration Fees. –
Although required to register under RSA 270-E:3, vessels owned or operated by the state or any subdivision thereof shall be exempt from registration fees.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:6-a - Navigation Safety Fund.

270-E:6-a Navigation Safety Fund. –
There is established the navigation safety fund which shall be nonlapsing and continually appropriated to the department of safety, division of state police. The state treasurer may invest moneys in the fund as provided by law and all interest received on such investment shall be credited to the fund. The fund shall only be used to promote the safety of navigation and the administration and enforcement of RSA 270, RSA 270-B, RSA 270-D, and RSA 270-E.
Source.
1999, 193:8, eff. July 1, 1999. 2011, 224:220, eff. June 30, 2011. 2013, 144:142, eff. July 1, 2013.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:7 - Disposition of Revenues.

270-E:7 Disposition of Revenues. –
I. Except as provided in paragraph II, all fines collected under this chapter and the amount of fees generated by RSA 270-E:5, I and III shall be deposited in the navigation safety fund established under RSA 270-E:6-a.
II. All fees collected under RSA 270-E:5, I and III for vessels registered for tidal and coastal waters shall be made available to the Pease development authority, division of ports and harbors for the purposes of safety, navigation, training, and administration. Such sums shall be nonlapsing and shall be continually appropriated to the Pease development authority, division of ports and harbors.
Source.
1990, 229:1. 1994, 292:4. 1995, 273:4. 1998, 324:3. 1999, 193:9. 2001, 290:14, eff. July 1, 2001.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:8 - Display of Numbers Required.

270-E:8 Display of Numbers Required. –
I. Every vessel required to be registered in this state shall display the vessel numbers issued to the vessel as part of the registration process, unless the vessel is exempt under the provisions of RSA 270-E:9.
II. The owner shall paint on, attach or otherwise display to each side of the forward half of the vessel the numbers assigned by the department not less than 3 inches in height, with block letters of contrasting color, and they shall be clearly readable when the vessel is being operated. The numbers shall be maintained in legible condition. No numbers other than the numbers validly assigned to a vessel shall be painted, attached or otherwise displayed on either side of the forward half of such vessel.
III. Any person who operates a vessel on the inland or tidal and coastal waters of this state without displaying the vessel numbers and the decal required by this chapter in the manner required by this chapter, unless exempt under the provisions of RSA 270-E:9, shall be guilty of a violation for a first offense and a misdemeanor for a second offense.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:9 - Exemptions From Displaying Numbers.

270-E:9 Exemptions From Displaying Numbers. –
I. A vessel shall not be required to display a number under this chapter if it is:
(a) Covered by a certificate of numbers in full force and effect which has been issued to it pursuant to federal law or a federally approved numbering system of another state.
(b) A foreign vessel temporarily using waters subject to United States jurisdiction.
(c) A vessel owned, or demise chartered, and operated by the United States government, except a recreational-type public vessel; or a vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, which is used primarily for governmental purposes, and which is clearly identifiable as such.
(d) A vessel's lifeboat.
(e) A vessel which is documented by the United States Coast Guard or its federal agency successor.
(f) A vessel which is being operated under a temporary certificate.
(g) A nondocumented vessel used exclusively for racing events.
(h) A sailboat under 20 feet in length, or any vessel that is only powered by oars or paddles. Any vessel which has an inboard or outboard motor shall not be exempt from displaying a number except as otherwise provided in this section.
II. A vessel which is exempt from displaying a number but which is otherwise required to be registered in this state shall display a decal issued by the state.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:10 - Notice of Transfer; Destruction or Abandonment.

270-E:10 Notice of Transfer;  Destruction or Abandonment. –
The owner shall furnish the department written notice of the transfer of all or any part of his or her interest, other than the creation of a security interest, in a vessel registered in this state pursuant to this chapter or the destruction or abandonment of such vessel within 15 days of its transfer, destruction, or abandonment. Such transfer, destruction, or abandonment shall terminate the certificate of numbers for such vessel, except that in the case of a transfer of a part interest which does not affect the owner's rights to operate such vessel, the transfer shall not terminate the certificate of numbers. If a vessel is transferred, the original number shall be retained by the new owner. A person who transfers the ownership of a vessel, upon filing a new application, may have another boat registered in his or her name for the remainder of the period for which the vessel is registered for $5.
Source.
1990, 229:1. 2009, 144:147, eff. Aug. 28, 2009.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:11 - Change of Address.

270-E:11 Change of Address. –
Any person who has a vessel registered in this state shall notify the department in writing within 15 days if his address no longer conforms to the address appearing on the certificate and shall, as a part of the notification, furnish the department with his new address.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:12 - Rulemaking.

270-E:12 Rulemaking. –
The commissioner shall adopt rules pursuant to RSA 541-A relative to:
I. The information to be contained in an application for registration.
II. Decals necessary to implement this chapter, including temporary decals.
III. Certificates of numbers.
IV. Display of numbers.
V. Reports on change of address.
VI. Destruction, abandonment, sale or transfer of ownership.
VII. The form of annual reports for common carriers.
VIII. The form of accounts and all other records to be kept by common carriers.
IX. The length of time a common carrier shall keep accounts and records.
X. Procedures allowing for registering a vessel for more than one year if feasible.
XI. All matters necessary for the issuance and revocation of authority to act as a boat agent for the department.
XI-a. Procedures, including documentation, for establishing that a vessel qualifies for a commercial boat exemption from the boat fee required by RSA 72-A.
XII. [Repealed.]
XIII. For the rules under this section on vessel numbering, the commissioner may adopt by reference, as amended, the current version of the federal boating safety state numbering system regulations promulgated by the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Security, contained in 33 C.F.R. parts 174.3, 174.17-174.19.
Source.
1990, 229:1. 1995, 273:5, eff. July 1, 1995. 2012, 171:26, XI, eff. Aug. 10, 2012. 2023, 116:2, eff. Aug. 29, 2023.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:13 - Dealer's Registration.

270-E:13 Dealer's Registration. –
I. A manufacturer or dealer of vessels and outboard motors may make application to the department for a general distinguishing number for his vessels.
II. A manufacturer or dealer shall not loan the numbers which have been assigned to him under this chapter to a sub-agent or to any other person. Such numbers may be used on vessels when used in connection with said manufacturer's or dealer's business or for pleasure purposes, but in no case shall they be used on vessels carrying persons or property for hire or compensation.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:14 - Temporary Registration.

270-E:14 Temporary Registration. –
A person desiring to register a vessel shall apply for registration and pay the required boat fee and registration fee to the department or an agent of the department. Upon receipt of such application and fees, the department or agent of the department shall issue to the purchaser a receipt for such payment and a decal. The decal issued shall be attached to the vessel. The decal shall be evidence that application has been made for registration, and such vessel or motor may be operated for a period of not more than 30 consecutive days thereafter. Permanent numbers, when received, shall be attached immediately by the applicant.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:15 - Suspension of Dealer's Registration; Penalty.

270-E:15 Suspension of Dealer's Registration;  Penalty. –
The commissioner shall have the authority to suspend or revoke the registration of any manufacturer or dealer who violates any of the provisions of this chapter. Any manufacturer or dealer who violates any of said provisions shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:16 - Repair Numbers.

270-E:16 Repair Numbers. –
I. A person who engages in the business of maintaining or repairing vessels may make application to the department for a general distinguishing number for the boats which he is maintaining or repairing.
II. The commissioner may, if he is satisfied of the facts stated in the application, issue to the applicant a certificate containing the name, residence, and address of the applicant and the general distinguishing number assigned together with such provisions as the commissioner may determine. All vessels being maintained or repaired by said person may, while being maintained or repaired, be regarded as being registered under such distinguishing number, provided the number issued by the commissioner is attached to the vessel.
III. A person to whom such number has been assigned shall not loan the number plates to any person. Such numbers may be used on vessels which are being maintained or repaired by him as part of his business only when such vessels are being operated by the person to whom the plates were issued or a person employed by him. In no case shall such plates be used on vessels for any other purpose.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:17 - Revocation of Registration.

270-E:17 Revocation of Registration. –
In addition to any other authority provided by law, the commissioner is hereby authorized to revoke or suspend any registration issued pursuant to this chapter or any privilege to operate a boat, or both, upon a showing that:
I. The owner has violated any provision of this chapter, RSA 270, RSA 270-A, RSA 270-B, or any rules adopted under these chapters, or has allowed another person to violate any of these laws or rules.
II. The owner has failed to pay the boat fee required by RSA 72-A:2.
III. The owner is physically or mentally an improper or incompetent person to operate a vessel or is operating improperly or so as to endanger the public.
IV. The owner has defaulted on a court summons arising from a violation of boating laws or rules.
Source.
1990, 229:1. 1991, 369:4, eff. July 2, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:18 - Common Carriers; Applications, Orders.

270-E:18 Common Carriers;  Applications, Orders. –
I. No person shall operate a vessel as a common carrier of passengers or property on a regular route and schedule between points on public waters of the state, unless the department authorizes the operation.
II. An order authorizing, in whole or in part, an operation for which application is made shall be issued to any qualified applicant.
III. Applications shall:
(a) Be in writing to the department.
(b) Contain the information required by the department.
IV. Conditions for qualification:
(a) The applicant shall be fit, willing and able to properly perform the proposed service.
(b) The applicant shall conform to the provisions of RSA 270 and any rules adopted by the commissioner under RSA 270.
(c) The proposed service shall be for the benefit of the present or future public convenience.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:19 - Rates, Charges, and Schedules.

270-E:19 Rates, Charges, and Schedules. –
Every common carrier by water shall establish and charge just and reasonable rates for transportation of passengers or property on the public waters of the state. Such rates and tariffs, together with a schedule of the service offered, shall be published, filed with the department and kept open to public inspection, and no common carrier shall demand or collect or receive a greater or less or different compensation for transportation than the rates specified in the tariff in effect at any time. Any person, organization, or body politic may make complaint in writing to the department that any rate, fare, or charge in effect, or proposed to be put in effect, is or will be unjust or unreasonable. Whenever, after hearing, upon complaint or in an investigation on its own initiative, the department shall be of the opinion that any rate, fare or charge in effect or proposed to be in effect is unjust or unreasonable, the department shall determine and prescribe the lawful rate, fare, or charge thereafter to be observed.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:20 - Change in Rates, Charges, and Schedules.

270-E:20 Change in Rates, Charges, and Schedules. –
Unless the department otherwise orders, no change shall be made in any rate, fare, charge or price, which has been filed or published by a common carrier by water in compliance with the requirements hereof, except after 30 days' notice to the department and such notice to the public as the department shall direct.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:21 - Reports; Accounts; Records.

270-E:21 Reports;  Accounts;  Records. –
I. The department may require:
(a) Annual reports from all common carriers by water.
(b) Specific answers to any questions deemed necessary by the department.
II. The department or its representative shall have access, at reasonable times, to all accounts, records and other documents of a carrier which relate to RSA 270-E.
Source.
1990, 229:1, eff. Jan. 1, 1991.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:22 - Commercial Vessels; Penalty.

270-E:22 Commercial Vessels;  Penalty. –
I. Any person who shall use any commercial vessel or commercial outboard motor on any public waters in this state without a certificate of inspection, or shall act as captain, master, pilot, engineer or operator on any such boat or launch without having passed an examination administered by the department and having been certified by the department in that capacity, or shall so act when his or her certificate has been revoked or suspended, or who shall violate any rule adopted by the department with reference to the inspection, equipment, or operation of such vessels or launches, shall be guilty of a misdemeanor if a natural person, or guilty of a felony if any other person.
II. The commissioner, after hearing, may revoke or suspend the certificate of any captain, master, pilot, or engineer of any commercial vessel for violation of RSA 270 or the rules and regulations prescribed thereunder.
III. All licenses to operate a commercial vessel shall expire 5 years from the date of issuance.
IV. A person who possesses a valid license issued by the federal government shall be deemed to comply with this section.
Source.
1990, 229:1. 2009, 144:148, eff. Aug. 28, 2009.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:23 - License Fees.

270-E:23 License Fees. –
There shall be paid to the commissioner for every certificate of captain, master, pilot, or engineer, $15. A certificate shall entitle the holder thereof to act in the capacity named on any vessel of the class described in the certificate. Only one certificate shall be required to entitle the holder thereof to act in any or all of the above capacities on any motorized vessel permitted to carry a maximum of 25 persons. If a person fails the examination required by RSA 270-E:22, I, the person may retake the examination for a fee of $10 paid to the commissioner. The fees paid for re-examinations and for certificates issued under this section shall be deposited in the navigation safety fund established under RSA 270-E: 6-a.
Source.
1990, 229:1. 1999, 193:10. 2009, 144:148, eff. Aug. 28, 2009.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:24 - Rental Agent Registration; Fees.

270-E:24 Rental Agent Registration;  Fees. –
I. Any person renting or leasing motorized watercraft shall register as a rental agent with the department. Applications for registration shall include the name of the applicant, including any additional names under which the applicant may be doing business, the address or addresses of the applicant and rental locations, the vessel registration numbers of all watercraft available for rent or lease, and the fees required by this section. Upon receiving the completed application for registration, the department shall issue the applicant a rental agent safety certificate.
II. The registration fee for rental agents shall be $25, which shall be deposited in the navigation safety fund established under RSA 270-E:6-a.
III. All rental agency safety certificates shall expire on December 31 of the year in which they are issued.
Source.
2007, 101:2, eff. Jan. 1, 2008.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 270-E - Vessel Registration and Numbering › Section 270-E:25 - Prohibitions; Penalties.

270-E:25 Prohibitions;  Penalties. –
I. No rental agent shall:
(a) Rent or lease any motorized watercraft to any other person without having a rental agent safety certificate. This subparagraph shall not apply to the use of any motorized watercraft which is included in the rental or lease of real property.
(b) Rent or lease any motorized watercraft to any other person without complying with the requirements of RSA 270-D:2-c.
(c) Rent or lease any motorized watercraft to any person who has not provided proof to the rental agent of having met the requirements of RSA 270-D:10.
(d) Rent or lease any motorized watercraft that is unsafe to any other person.
II. Any person violating subparagraph I(a) shall be guilty of a violation for a first or second offense committed within the same calendar year and guilty of a misdemeanor for any subsequent offense committed within the same calendar year.
III. The commissioner may revoke the rental agent safety certificate upon finding that the certificate holder has violated subparagraph I(b), I(c), or I(d).
Source.
2007, 101:2. 2009, 298:3, eff. Jan. 1, 2010.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 271 - Pilots, Harbor Masters, and Public Waters › Section 271:1 - to 271:7 Repealed by 1957, 262:3, eff. Sept. 1, 1957.

271:1 to 271:7 Repealed by 1957, 262:3, eff. Sept. 1, 1957. –
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 271 - Pilots, Harbor Masters, and Public Waters › Section 271:8 - Dumping in Harbor.

271:8 Dumping in Harbor. –
If any person shall unload, cast or throw out of any ship, vessel or boat, or from shore or wharf, any ballast, rubbish, gravel, earth, dirt, ashes or filth into the harbor, or river of Piscataqua, between the lighthouse at the entrance of said harbor and Dover Point bridge, so called, up said river, or aid and assist therein, he shall be guilty of a violation.
Source.
1855, 1694:3. GS 104:7. 1878, 31:1. GL 114:7. PS 120:7. 1911, 153:1. PL 152:9. RL 182:9. RSA 271:8. 1973, 531:92, eff. Oct. 31, 1973 at 11:59 p.m.
2023 New Hampshire Revised Statutes › Title XXII - Navigation; Harbors; Coast Survey › Chapter 271 - Pilots, Harbor Masters, and Public Waters › Section 271:9 - Navigable Waters.

271:9 Navigable Waters. –
Navigable streams or waters are those which are used, or are susceptible of being used in their ordinary condition, as highways for commerce, over which trade or travel is or may be conducted in the present customary modes of trade or travel on water, and such term shall not apply to streams or waters which are used merely as public highways for floating logs.
Source.
1911, 21:2. PL 152:11. RL 182:10.