The Coast Guard has certain boating safety requirements for recreational boats up to 65 feet. While the safety laws are essentially the same for each size category of boats, some differ. Here is a reference list to comply with the USCG boating safety rules if your boat is at least 26 feet but under 40 feet.
State Registration
A Certificate of Number or State Registration must be on board while the boat is in use.
State Numbering and Letters
Must be in contrasting color to the boat, not less than 3 inches in height, and located on each side of the forward part of the boat. It must also have a state decal within six inches of the registration number.
Certificate of Documentation
For documented vessels only, an original and current certifcate must be on board. The vessel name must be on the exterior part of the hull and cannot be less than 4 inches in height. The official number, at least 3 inches in height, permanently affixed on interior structure.
Personal Floatation Device
One type of Coast Guard approved life jacket must be on board for each person on the boat. Also must have one Type V, throwable type of PFD.
Visual Distress Signal
One orange distress flag and one electric distress light, or three hand-held or floating orange smoke signals and one electric distress light, or three combination (day/night) red flares: hand-held, meteor or parachute type.
Fire Extinguisher
One Marine Type USCG B-II or two B-I fire extinguishers if your boat has an inboard engine, enclosed compartments where fuel or flammable and combustible materials are store, closed living spaces, or permanently installed fuel tanks. A fixed system equals One B-I.
Ventilation
If your boat was built after April 25, 1940 and uses gasoline in an enclosed engine or fuel tank compartment, it must have natural ventilation. If it was built after July 31, 1980 it must have an exhaust blower.
Sound Producing Device
A sufficient way to make a sound signal, like a whistle or an air horn. In addition, boats 39.4 ft or greater, must have a sound signaling appliance capable of producing an efficient sound signaI, audible for 1/2 mile with a 4 to 6 seconds duration. You must also carry on board a bell with a clapper that has a mouth not smaller than 7.9 inches in diameter.
Navigation Lights
Required to be displayed sunset to sunrise, or in low visibility.
Backfire Flame Arrestor
Required on gasoline engine boats manufactured after April 25, 1940 except outboard motors.
Marine Sanitation Device
If you have an installed toilet, you must have an operable MSD, Type I, II, or III.
Oil Pollution Placard
Placard must be posted in the machinery space or at the bilge station.
Garbage Placard
Placard must be at least 4 by 9 inches, made of durable material, and be displayed in a conspicuous place notifying all on board of the discharge restrictions.
Inland Navigation Rules
If you operate a vessel larger than 39.4 feet, you are required to carry a copy on board.
