Boating

​REGISTRATION​​

All mechanically powered vessels used primarily in this state must have a Kentucky registration. Boats are registered at the county clerk’s office. Persons may register in the county of their residence or the county of principal use. Boat registrations expire on April 30 each year.

Boats registered in other states may be used for up to 60 consecutive days in Kentucky without registering here.

All boats operated in Kentucky must have the registration certificate on board. Boats that are rented from a marina or boat livery must have a lease agreement on board.​

TRANSFER, DESTRUCTION, OR ABANDONMENT

​When ownership of a currently registered boat changes, it is the responsibility of the purchaser to take the endorsed title to the county clerk and have the boat transferred into the name of the new owner. This procedure must be done upon completion of the transaction.​​

Whenever a vessel is transferred, the seller shall, within 15 days, give the county clerk notice of the transfer of his interest in the vessel.

Whenever a vessel is destroyed or abandoned, the owner shall, within 15 days, give notice to the county clerk to terminate the registration. The owner shall remove the numbers and decals from the vessel.

(SEE: 301 KAR 1:012, 1:015)​ Maximum horsepower limits and other boat motor and lake usage regulations apply on many small public fishing lakes. (For boat size limits, see the "ON ALL KENTUCKY..." box on this page.)

MOTOR SIZE RESTRICTIONS:

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​​Operation of electric or internal combustion motors prohibited: Lake Chumley, Dennie Gooch Lake and Kingdom Come Lake.

Operation of internal combustion motors prohibited: ​Bert T. Combs Lake, Briggs Lake, Carpenter Lake, Kingfisher Lakes, Carter Caves State Park Lake (a.k.a. Smoke Valley Lake), Lebanon City Lake (a.k.a. Fagan Branch Lake), Fishpond Lake, all Kentucky River WMA Boone Tract lakes (except Benjy Kinman Lake), Lincoln Homestead State Park Lake, McNeely Lake, Marion County Lake, Martin County Lake, Metcalfe County Lake, Mauzy Lake, Mill Creek Lake, Lake Reba, Spurlington Lake, Washburn Lake and Pikeville City Lake.

Motors larger than 10 HP must operate at idle speed at all times: Beaver Lake, Boltz Lake, Bullock Pen Lake, Corinth Lake, Elmer Davis Lake, Kincaid Lake, Shanty Hollow Lake, Swan Lake, Cranks Creek (Herb Smith) Lake and Martins Fork Lake.​

Idle Speed Only:Ballard WMA lakes, Benjy Kinman Lake, ​Boatwright WMA lakes, Beulah Lake, Carnico Lake​​, Greenbo Lake, Pan Bowl Lake, Wilgreen Lake and all Peabody WMA lakes​, including Goose, Island and South.​

WATER-SKIING

While this section is titled waterskiing, it applies to persons being towed on any device, such as kneeboards, inner tubes, etc. Water skiing is only allowed between sunrise and sunset. Additionally, it is illegal to manipulate skis, surfboards, etc., while intoxicated or under the influence of any other substance that impairs one’s operating ability.

Both the operator and skier should be alert to the areas of a lake or river marked as “no ski.” Persons shall not ski within 100 feet of a commercial boat dock, a moorage harbor, a swimming area, or within 2,000 feet of a lock or dam.

Skiers who ski too close to other boats, docks and obstructions are showing poor judgment. Many of the complaints officers receive while patrolling the water are those about skiers skiing too close.

Persons being towed on any device must wear a Type I, II or III PFD. Boats (including personal watercraft) towing skiers must have, in addition to the operator of the boat, an observer 12 years of age or older or a wide angle rearview mirror mounted so that the operator can check on the skier but still give full attention to traffic ahead. There must be adequate seating for all riders.

Boats towing kites and similar airborne devices must:

• Have, in addition to the operator, an observer 12 years or older (a mirror will not suffice),
• Stay 500 feet from commercial docks and ramps,
• Limit the tow rope to 150 feet or less,
• Have no more than two persons being towed.
  

PERSONAL WATERCRAFT

The term “personal watercraft” (PWC) means a vessel that uses an internal combustion engine to power a jet pump for its primary source of propulsion and is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing or kneeling on the vessel rather than by a person sitting or standing inside the vessel. In addition to being governed by the same laws that apply to all boats, the following laws apply to personal watercraft:

• Personal watercraft can only be operated between sunrise and sunset.
• Personal watercraft without self-circling capability must have a lanyard-type engine kill switch attached to the operator when the craft is underway.
• Operators and passengers must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device (PFD.)

Because of their small size and low profile, operators of PWCs should exercise defensive driving. These crafts are highly responsive and capable of quick turns. In fact, this is part of the fun of their operation. However, this kind of operation is reckless if done in congested areas of boat traffic.

SKIN AND SCUBA DIVING

(SEE: 301 KAR 1:410, 6:030​)

Skin or SCUBA diving is prohibited in all lakes owned or managed by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife Resources, except during emergencies, on Greenbo Lake, and during salvage operations when the diver has written permission from the regional director or local wildlife and boating law enforcement officer assigned to the specific body of water in which the diving is to take place.

Persons diving or submerging with the aid of a mechanical breathing apparatus in an area where boats might be are required by law to display the diver’s flag.

This flag should be put on a buoy, boat or other floating platform so boaters will readily see it. Approaching boats must stay outside of a 100-foot radius of the flag. Divers must surface within a 50-foot radius unless there is an emergency.

Divers shall not dive in established traffic lanes nor interfere with anyone fishing unless emergency operations are in progress.

SWIMMING

Swimming in any lake owned or managed by the KDFWR is prohibited except in areas specifically set aside for swimming at which a qualified lifeguard is on duty. Kentucky law specifically prohibits swimming at any boat launching ramp. Swim in marked and supervised areas. If you are a non-swimmer or a poor swimmer, wear a PFD. Remember, PFDs are not just for boaters.​​

​​Refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages when swimming. Alcohol greatly reduces a person’s reflexes and strength when in the water. For persons who have had alcoholic beverages, a PFD is a difference between life and death.​

Persons who wish to swim a long distance should swim parallel to the shore instead of across a river or lake. Boaters don’t normally expect to see swimmers in the middle of a lake or river and may run over them.

​INFLATABLES

Air mattresses, inner tubes and other similar devices are generally used as recreational items by persons swimming or sunbathing. Use of these items should be restricted to designated or generally recognized swimming areas and not be used in areas of boat traffic. Non-swimmers or poor swimmers should not depend on these devices to save their life. These items can be punctured and lose their buoyancy – wear a PFD!

LITTERING

(SEE:​ KRS 433.757​)

The operator of any motorboat or vessel is responsible for any litter thrown into the water. Litter is not only unsightly but can be dangerous to humans and animals. For example, fishing lines discarded into the water can be hazardous to wildlife and to a boat’s lower unit. Animals can be ensnared in the line and die. A fishing line caught on a prop shaft can cause seal leaks and lower unit failure. Trotlines and limb lines can snare animals and other anglers in boats.

BOAT OPERATION​ Back to ​Top

RECKLESS OPERATION​

The operator of a watercraft is responsible for damage caused by negligent operation. The following actions are considered reckless operations and are therefore against the law:

• weaving through traffic;
• following a watercraft too closely, i.e., ​towing an individual on waterskis, a surfboard or any water sport device;
• jumping the wake of another craft in a way that endangers human life, physical safety or property;
• cutting between a boat and the individual(s) being towed by the boat;
• crossing the path of another boat when visibility is obstructed;
• steering toward an object or individual in the water and turning sharply at close range.

Persons shall not operate a motorboat or personal watercraft within 50 feet of a commercial vessel and its tow that is in operation on a waterway except if the operator of the commercial vessel has given consent.

When operating in a busy area, reduce speed and allow plenty of room for avoidance maneuvers. Even in areas that are not marked as idle speed, the excessive wake can still be dangerous. Operators of larger craft should be aware of the wake their vessels are throwing.

IDLE SPEED

Kentucky law defines idle speed as the “slowest speed possible to maintain maneuverability” of a boat. Generally speaking, for a properly adjusted boat, this is the speed at which a boat is put into gear without advancing the throttle. Wakes can capsize small boats or cause damage to boats moored at marinas and docks. It is extremely important that boat operators be aware of their speed and the resulting wake. Operators are liable for any injuries or damage caused by their boat’s wake.

Boaters may see buoys or signs that say “No Wake.” This means that boats must be at idle speed.

LOCKS AND DAMS

Boaters in Kentucky may encounter lock and dam systems. Generally, these will be on the Green, Ohio and Kentucky Rivers (for the first four locks upstream to Frankfort, KY), but a few impoundments have a lock and dam. Locks are a relatively simple method of raising or lowering boats from one water level to another. If lockage is desired, boaters should signal the lock operator by using the pull chain on each end of the lock or call on marine channel 13. If the lock is not immediately available, boaters should position their vessels a safe distance from the approach channel to avoid personal injury or damage to their boat from wakes caused by commercial tows entering or leaving the locks. Never moor a vessel in the lock approach channels.​​

 

​​​ WARNING: LOW-HEAD DAMS ARE DANGEROUS

Low-head dams are usually marked with “keep out” buoys or “danger” signs above and below. Low-head dams pose an even greater danger due to the fact that they are not as recognizable, especially when water is flowing over them. This flow of water over the dam creates a “boil” on the lower side. Boaters risk almost certain death if caught in this turbulence.

DRINKING IN PUBLIC AND PUBLIC INTOXICATION

(SEE: KRS 222.202)

Kentucky law specifically prohibits drinking alcoholic beverages in public places (this excludes establishments licensed to sell such beverages), and the waterways of this state are considered public places.

Further, in a public place, persons who are manifestly under the influence of alcoholic beverages to the extent that they may unreasonably annoy or endanger themselves or others shall be subject to arrest.

PROHIBITED RIDING

Approximately half of the boat-related fatalities result from falls overboard. When operating a motorboat above idle speed, the operator or passengers shall not ride on an enclosed bow, outside protective railing of a pontoon or houseboat, on a seat which extends six inches above the plane of the gunwales, nor shall they ride on the sides, back, engine cover, back of the seat, or any other obviously dangerous position which could lead to falling overboard.

RULES OF THE ROAD​​ Back to ​Top

​On the water, no painted lines mark where boats must go. In order to provide an orderly flow of traffic, there are "rules of the road" that boaters should learn and practice.

Boaters on the water encounter three situations: meeting, crossing and overtaking. The following diagrams should clearly explain who has the right of way (stand-on vessel) and who must give way (give-way vessel). However, all vessels must give way to avoid a collision in an emergency. At night, a boat's navigation lights give an indication of the right of way (See: Navigation Lights Section.)​

The above rules cover most traffic situations, but a few other situations exist. Sailboats under sail have the right of way except when they are the overtaking vessel. Rowboats and paddle-powered boats have the right of way over motorboats. All recreational craft should yield the right of way to large commercial craft (towboats, barges). Such vessels have large blind spots and will be unable to see smaller crafts in front of them. On small or narrow bodies of water, all traffic should stay to the right of mid-channel and not "cut corners."​​

BUOYS

Buoys are the most common type of navigational aid, and they serve the same purpose as traffic signs on the highway. Failure to obey buoys can result in enforcement action, or worse, a loss of property or lives. Slow down when boating in unfamiliar waters and look for any regulatory or channel-marking buoys. Remember that it is possible for these buoys to drift out of position. Kentucky law prohibits tying up to any buoy except designated mooring buoys.​

REQUIRED EQUIPMENT​ Back to ​Top​

(SEE: 301 KAR 6:040 Sect. 4​)​

For each person onboard a vessel, federal as well as state law requires a Type I, II, or III personal flotation device (PFD) on all boats. Boats 16 feet and over, except canoes and kayaks, must also carry one Type IV throwable PFD. Operators and passengers of personal watercraft must wear a PFD. Persons under 12 years of age must wear a PFD while in the open part of a boat that is underway.

PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICES

Kentucky Fish and Wildlife strongly recommends wearing PFDs while boating, especially by children and non-swimmers. In order for PFDs to be legal, the following requirements must be met:

• Coast Guard approved: A label with an approval number will be on the PFD. Check the label on inflatable types of PFDs. Some older models meet Coast Guard approval only when worn.
• Serviceability: All straps, buckles, zippers, and stitching must be intact, and the fabric should not be rotted. Some PFDs contain airtight bags filled with fibrous material. Squeeze the bags. If air escapes, destroy the PFD and replace it with a new one.
• Size: PFDs must fit properly. Read the label to determine size and weight restrictions.
• Accessibility: PFDs must be readily available for immediate use by all occupants of a vessel. It is advisable for each person to try on their PFD before departing so that they are familiar with the fastening devices and to ensure it is adjusted to the person. PFDs shouldn’t be stored in the plastic bags in which they were sold. This limits access and can promote rotting.
  

FIRE EXTINGUISHERS​

Kentucky law requires that all boats equipped with a petroleum product (gasoline, kerosene, propane, etc.) consuming device (engines, lanterns, stoves, etc.) shall have a hand-portable fire extinguisher in serviceable condition and be located for immediate use. The best fire protection is well-maintained equipment and proper safety habits.

There are fuels other than gasoline that cause fires. Many houseboats use bottled gas (propane) for stoves and other appliances. Also, many fishermen will use a lantern while fishing at night; if tipped over, it can cause a fire.

BACKFIRE FLAME ARRESTERS

Internal combustion engines may backfire. To safeguard against fire, all motorboats with enclosed engines and engines originally equipped with a flame arrester (except outboards and diesel) must have an approved carburetor backfire flame arrester system on each carburetor.

VENTILATION

Most fires on a boat are due to the ignition of fuel vapors. Gasoline is heavier than air. It can collect in the bilge or engine compartment, and any spark can ignite it. Therefore, Kentucky law requires boats to have adequate ventilation in areas where flammable vapors can accumulate.​

Most boats are equipped with adequate ventilation systems when they come from the factory. Usually, this is a combination of active and passive systems. Active systems use electrical blowers to exhaust flammable vapors from the bilge and other areas. Passive systems are ducts and cowls ventilating areas when the boat moves. Almost all inboards will have an electrical blower installed in the engine compartment. Operators should run the blower for several minutes before starting the engine. If the blower is inoperable, it should be repaired or replaced immediately. Many boat fires take place after refueling, so care should be taken to avoid spilling fuel in the vessel.

NAVIGATION LIGHTS

When underway between sunset and sunrise, all vessels must display proper navigation lights. Navigation lights on boats are restricted to the colors red, green and white.

From sunset to sunrise in an area where other boats navigate, all vessels at anchor shall display a steady white light visible 360 degrees at all times. Manually propelled vessels shall carry a white light to display in sufficient time to avoid a collision.

The red and green navigation lights at night are used to show if your boat is in a meeting, crossing or overtaking situation. The red and green lights must be displayed from sunset to sunrise whenever a boat is underway. They will give some indication of the size and speed of vessels. The red and green bow lights are especially helpful in determining the right of way in crossing situations. In the second diagram to the right, boat B sees the green bow light of boat A and has the right of way to continue on course. Boat A sees the red bow light of boat B and must stop or pass the stern of boat B. In special circumstances, such as towing, refer to 33 CFR 83 (Inland Navigation Rules).

SIGNALING DEVICES

Kentucky law states that all boats 16 feet in length or longer must have a hand-, mouth- or power-operated signaling device capable of producing a blast for two seconds or more and audible for a one-half mile for class 1 vessels, one mile for class two vessels and one and one-half miles for class three vessels. This does not exempt vessels from any other signaling device as may be required by federal law when operating on navigable waters of this state.

Navigation law also requires the following maneuvering and warning signals:

• One long blast: Warning signal (coming out of slip)
• One short blast: Pass on my port side (left)
• Two short blasts: Pass on my starboard (right)
• Three short blasts: Engines in reverse
• Five or more blasts: A danger signal
  

MUFFLING DEVICES

Kentucky law requires all boats to be equipped with effective exhaust muffling devices. Usually, boats and motors that come direct from the manufacturer are adequately muffled. However, there may be instances of high-performance boats that have been modified by the owners that are not in compliance with the law. Additionally, federal and/or local regulations may restrict boats with an over-the-transom exhaust system.​​

MARINE SANITATION DEVICES

(SEE: ​KRS 235:420)

Motorboats with marine toilets are not allowed on public waters unless the toilet is equipped with a Type I, II, or III marine sanitation device (MSD.) Type I and II MSDs chemically treat sewage. Type III MSDs are holding tanks for raw sewage.

Raw sewage shall not be discharged into any public waters. Treated sewage may be discharged into legal “discharge” waters from a marine toilet. Those waters are Barkley and Kentucky lakes, Lake Cumberland and any of the major river systems. Type I and II MSDs must be sealed or locked while the vessel is on “no discharge” waters.