Complying with Officers in North Carolina

Who has the authority to enforce North Carolina boating laws?

Wildlife enforcement officers of the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission, officers of the Department of Environment and National Resources, US Coast Guard officers, and any other authorized law enforcement officer have the authority to enforce North Carolina boating laws.

Any person operating a vessel on the waters of the state is required to bring their vessel to a stop after having been requested or signaled to do so by a law enforcement officer. The operator must comply with the directives of that officer.

Who regulates boating laws in North Carolina?

To make certain that the public is safe, responsible, and free to enjoy boating activities throughout the state, the Wildlife Resources Commission enforces laws and regulations that all should observe. This site provides a single resource for obtaining all the facts you need to know. 

Passing Law Enforcement Vessels

Operators shall slow their vessel at “idle speed” when passing within 100 feet of a law enforcement vessel that is displaying a flashing blue light. One exception applies: when in a narrow channel, operators shall slow their vessel at “idle speed” when within 50 feet of a law enforcement vessel that is displaying a flashing blue light.