New Jersey Boating Announcement: New PFD Law for Boaters This Winter

Starting November 1st, a new boating PFD (personal floatation device) law will be put into effect on New Jersey waters.

Between November 1, 2023, and May 1, 2024, operators and passengers aboard a recreational vessel less than 26 feet, such as rowboats, canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards must wear a securely fastened United States Coast Guard-approved wearable, size-fitting personal floatation device while the vessel is underway. A passenger inside the cabin of a cabin vessel is exempt from this requirement.

The goal of this seasonal regulation is to prevent lake deaths caused by hypothermia and drowning. This regulation also decreases the risks for first responders during winter search-and-rescue operations on New Jersey waters.

Questions?

For more information, visit the New Jersey State Police website and go to the Marine Services page here.

Stay safe on the water, and we look forward to seeing you for the next boating season!