Life jackets requirements for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, kitesurfs, windfurfs, sailboats in California   

Vessels less than 16 feet in length and all canoes and kayaks, regardless of length, must carry one Type I, II, III or V Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person on board. Life jackets must be readily accessible and fit the intended wearer properly.

Vessels 16 feet and over, except canoes and kayaks, must have one Type I, II, III or V Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each person aboard, plus at least one Type IV throw able device.
Note: An inflatable life jacket must be worn to be considered readily accessible.

Life jackets requirements for kayaks, canoes, paddleboards, kitesurfs, windfurfs, sailboats in California   

Navigation lights for Sailboats and Human Powered Vessels in California   

All vessels are required to display navigation lights between sunset and sunrise and during times of restricted visibility, such as:

  • An electric torch

  • Lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.

  • Tricolored lantern (should not be used with all-round green and red lights)

  • All-Round green and red lights. (should not be used with tricolored lantern)

Navigation lights for Sailboats and Human Powered Vessels in California   

Sound Signaling Devices for Sailboats and Human Powered Vessels in California   


A whistle, bell or other means of making an efficient sound signal.

Sound Signaling Devices for Sailboats and Human Powered Vessels in California   

Visual Distress Signals for Sailboats and Human Powered Vessels in California   
(Coastal Waters Only)

Only devices that are suitable for night are required between sunset and sunrise. Which includes?

  • Hand red Flare, distress signals

  • Pistol projected parachute red flare distress signals

  • Hand-held rocket-propelled parachute red

  • Distress signal for boats, red aerial pyrotechnic flare

  • Electric distress light for boat

Visual Distress Signals for Sailboats and Human Powered Vessels in California