Personal Flotation Devices (PFD) Requirements in Maryland
Vessels (both motorized and non-motorized) may only be operated in or on Maryland state waters if the vessel is carrying at least one US Coast Guard-approved wearable personal flotation device (PFD) in good condition that is readily available, approved for the appropriate activity, and of the correct size for every person aboard.
Specific PFD Requirements
- Each vessel must have at least one wearable U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved PFD readily accessible for each person on board
- Boats 16 feet or more in length, except canoes and kayaks, must additionally carry at least one Type IV (throwable) USCG-approved PFD
- Type V life jackets only count towards the minimum carriage requirements when worn and used according to the conditions on the label.
- Anyone operating or riding on a personal watercraft (PWC), and anyone being towed on water skis or a similar device must wear a properly fitted USCG-approved PFD.
Maryland Kids Life Jacket Laws Boating
Anyone under 13 years of age must wear a properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD while the vessel is underway on a recreational vessel less than 21 feet in length, unless the child is below deck or in an enclosed cabin.
A child under the age of 4 must wear a PFD that has additional safety features to:
- Hold the child securely within the life jacket, including a strap secured between the child’s legs.
- Maintain the buoyancy of the child, including an inflatable high collar or headrest.
- Ensure that the child can be pulled easily from the water, including a web handle.
