Personal Watercraft (PWC) Requirements - New York State

PWC are defined as small vessels that:

• Use a water jet pump as the primary power source

• Are designed to be operated in a sitting, kneeling or standing position

In addition to the regulations and laws regarding power vessels, PWC are also subject to the following laws and regulations in the state of New York:

• All PWC operators, passengers, and anyone being towed must wear a USCG-approved PFD at all times. Inflatable PFDs are not permitted.

• Operators of PWC equipped with an ignition safety switch must attach the engine shut off lanyard to his or her person, PFD, or clothing

• PWC operation is only permitted during daylight hours (from sunrise to sunset), even if the vessel is equipped with navigation lights. Operation is also not permitted when conditions are classified as “restricted visibility”.

• No one under the age of 14 may operate a PWC

• PWC operators must hold a New York State-approved boating safety certificate

• PWC operation is not permitted within 500 feet of designated swim areas.