As someone who has been active on Lake Erie since he was a child, Attorney Adam VanHo of VanHo Law wants to make sure you, your family, and friends are safe on Ohio's waterways.

This guide provides comprehensive information on Ohio boating laws and regulations for 2025 and 2026, including vessel registration requirements, safety equipment mandates, right-of-way rules, alcohol and marijuana laws, and recent legislative changes. As laws are constantly changing and being updated, please make sure you stay up-to-date on Ohio's laws before heading out on Ohio's waterways.

1. Vessel Registration Requirements

1.1 Who Must Register

All recreational watercraft operated on Ohio waters must be registered with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Parks and Watercraft. This includes:

Powerboats
Sailboats
Canoes and kayaks
Pedal boats
Inflatable boats

Exemptions: Kiteboards, paddleboards, and belly boats (float tubes) do NOT require registration.

1.2 Registration Details

Validity Period: Boat registrations are valid for three years and expire on March 1 of the renewal year. There is no late fee for renewing after March 1.

Registration Display: Vessels must display two square registration tags, one on each side of the bow within 6 inches of the registration number. Registration numbers must be:

Painted or permanently affixed on each side of the bow
In plain block letters at least 3 inches high
Contrasting color with the boat
Read from left to right
Format: OH-####-XX (numbers and letters separated by hyphens)

1.3 Title Requirements

The following watercraft require a title in Ohio:

All motorized boats with engines of 10 horsepower or more
Personal watercraft (PWCs)
Watercraft less than 14 feet in length with permanently affixed motors of 10 hp or greater
Outboard motors of 10 horsepower or more

Titles are obtained from any county title office and must be transferred within 30 days of purchase to avoid late fees.

1.4 Registration Fees

Registration fees are based on vessel length and type. As of 2024, fees for motorized boats under 16 feet start at $33, with higher costs for larger vessels.

2. Navigation Rules and Right of Way

2.1 General Navigation Rules

Ohio navigation rules are legally binding for all boat operators and function as the traffic laws of the waterways. Key principles include:

Operate at reasonable and prudent speeds at all times
Maintain proper lookout for other vessels, swimmers, and hazards
Follow posted speed limits and no-wake zones
Give due regard to navigation dangers and special circumstances

2.2 Right-of-Way Rules

Narrow Channels: Vessels in narrow channels must keep as near to the right side of the channel as safe and practical. Power vessels proceeding downstream with a following current have right-of-way over upbound vessels.

Leaving Dock: Vessels leaving a dock, slip, tie-up, or mooring must yield right-of-way to all approaching vessels.

Commercial Vessels: Recreational boaters must yield right-of-way to larger commercial vessels such as barges and tugboats, which have limited maneuverability. Maintain at least 1,000 feet clearance behind towboats due to wheel wash turbulence.

Overtaking: An overtaking vessel must signal its intention with appropriate sound signals and take steps to permit safe passing. The overtaken vessel sounds the same signal if in agreement.

U.S. Naval Vessels: Keep at least 100 yards from U.S. Naval vessels and reduce to no-wake speed when within 500 yards. Contact the vessel or Coast Guard on VHF channel 16 before approaching closer than 100 yards.

2.3 Speed Limits and Restricted Areas

No-Wake Zones: In designated no-wake zones, boaters must travel at idle speed—the slowest speed necessary to maintain steerage. These zones are commonly found near marinas, docks, and congested areas.

State Park Lakes: The speed limit on all Ohio state park lakes is 10 miles per hour between sunset and sunrise. During daylight hours, higher speeds may be permitted in designated speed zones, ski zones, or open zones.

3. Safety Equipment Requirements

3.1 Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)

Basic Requirements: All vessels must carry one U.S. Coast Guard-approved wearable PFD (Type I, II, III, or V) for each person on board. Vessels 16 feet or longer must also carry one throwable Type IV PFD (ring buoy or seat cushion).

Children Under 10: Children under 10 years of age must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD at all times when on vessels under 18 feet in length.

Personal Watercraft: All PWC operators and occupants must wear a Type I, II, III, or V PFD at all times while the vessel is underway.

Water Sports: Anyone being towed on water skis, surfboards, inflatable devices, or similar equipment must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, or III PFD, or a Type V PFD specifically designed for water-skiing.

Important: PFDs must be in good and serviceable condition, properly sized, and readily accessible. Inflatable PFDs are not intended for children under 16 years of age.

3.2 Fire Extinguishers

Most motorized boats must carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type B fire extinguishers. Requirements vary by vessel size:

Under 26 feet: At least one B-I fire extinguisher
26 to 40 feet: Two B-I extinguishers or one B-II extinguisher
40 to 65 feet: Three B-I extinguishers or one B-II and one B-I extinguisher

Exemptions: Powercraft less than 26 feet in length, powered by an outboard motor, of open construction, and not carrying passengers for hire are exempt. Fire extinguishers must be in good working condition, readily accessible, and regularly inspected.

3.3 Visual Distress Signals

Boats on federally controlled waters (Lake Erie and Ohio River) must carry visual distress signals:

Vessels over 16 feet: Both daytime and nighttime signaling devices
Vessels under 16 feet: Nighttime signals only if operating after sunset

Acceptable devices include pyrotechnic flares, orange smoke signals, distress flags, and electronic distress lights.

3.4 Sound-Producing Devices

All vessels must carry a sound-producing device such as a whistle or horn for signaling purposes.

3.5 Navigation Lights

All boats operated after dark must be equipped with proper navigation lights according to U.S. Coast Guard requirements. The specific light configuration depends on vessel type and size.

3.6 Muffler Requirements

Every motorized boat must be equipped with a muffler or muffler system in good working order that prevents excessive or unusual noise. The system must be in constant operation and meet the following standards:

90 decibels maximum at low idle speed when measured from one meter at dock
75 decibels maximum measured from shoreline during any level of operation

It is illegal to operate a boat with an altered muffler, muffler cutout, or in any manner that bypasses or reduces the effectiveness of the muffler system.

4. Alcohol and Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

4.1 Legal Standards

Ohio law prohibits operating or being in physical control of a vessel while under the influence of drugs or alcohol. A person can be convicted of Boating Under the Influence (BUI) for:

Having a blood or breath alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or greater (0.02% for those under 21)
Being impaired by drugs, alcohol, or a combination to the extent that actions, reactions, or mental processes are appreciably impaired
Having prohibited concentrations of controlled substances including amphetamine, cocaine, heroin, LSD, marijuana, methamphetamine, or PCP

4.2 When BUI Laws Apply

BUI laws apply when a vessel is not securely affixed to a dock, shore, or permanent structure, or anchored in a designated anchorage area or boat camping area. The law applies to all types of watercraft, including sailboats and non-motorized vessels.

4.3 BUI Penalties

BUI is classified as a first-degree misdemeanor with the following penalties:

First Offense:

Mandatory minimum of 3 days in jail (may be substituted with certified driver intervention program)
Up to 180 days in jail
Fines ranging from $150 to $1,000

Second Offense (within 10 years):

Mandatory minimum of 10 days in jail
Minimum fine of $150 (likely higher)

Third Offense:

Mandatory minimum of 30 days in jail
Up to one year in jail
Up to $1,000 in fines

4.4 Implied Consent and Refusal

By operating a vessel in Ohio, operators automatically consent to chemical testing (breath, blood, or urine) if arrested for BUI. Refusing a chemical test results in:

One-year suspension of the right to operate or register a watercraft
Possible impoundment of registration certificates and tags

4.5 Recent Changes (2025)

As of April 2025, under Liv's Law and related legislation, fines for a first OVI offense have increased from $375 to $565. While these changes primarily affect vehicular offenses, BUI penalties remain as outlined above, though courts may impose additional requirements such as boating safety courses.

5. Marijuana and Boating

5.1 Legal Status of Marijuana in Ohio

Ohio legalized recreational marijuana in December 2023 following the passage of Issue 2. Adults aged 21 and older may legally:

Possess up to 2.5 ounces of cannabis (except extracts)
Possess up to 15 grams of cannabis extracts
Grow up to 6 plants at their primary residence (12 plants if multiple adults reside there)

5.2 Marijuana Prohibition on Watercraft

Important: While recreational marijuana is legal in Ohio, it is illegal to use marijuana on any watercraft. Ohio law prohibits using adult-use cannabis in vehicles, streetcars, trackless trolleys, watercraft, or aircraft.

Operating or being in physical control of a watercraft while under the influence of marijuana is subject to BUI laws, with the same prohibited concentration standards and penalties that apply to alcohol and other controlled substances.

5.3 Penalties for Marijuana Use on Watercraft

A passenger using adult-use cannabis in a watercraft is subject to the following penalties:

First-time offender: First-degree misdemeanor, mandatory 3-day jail term (up to 6 months additional), $375 to $1,075 fine, and driver's license suspension

Operators found under the influence of marijuana face full BUI penalties including jail time, fines, and loss of boating privileges.

5.4 Legislative Changes Under Consideration

Ohio lawmakers have been working on Senate Bill 56 and other legislation to modify the state's marijuana laws. Proposed changes include:

Reducing maximum THC content in cannabis extracts from 90% to 70%
Limiting THC content for edibles to 10 milligrams per serving
Reducing maximum home-grown marijuana plants from 12 to 6 per residence
Regulations on intoxicating hemp products

As of late 2025, these bills have passed the House but legislative action remains ongoing. However, the prohibition on marijuana use in watercraft is already established law.

6. Age Requirements and Boater Education

6.1 Education Requirements

Who Needs Certification: Anyone born on or after January 1, 1982, must complete a NASBLA-approved boating safety course or pass a proficiency exam to operate a powercraft with an engine over 10 horsepower. The Boater Education Certificate must be carried on board and available for inspection.

Course Options: The ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft oversees the education program, offering in-person classes, online courses, and equivalency exams. Online courses typically cost between $20 and $40. Boaters must score at least 70% on the equivalency exam to pass.

6.2 Age Restrictions

Motorized Boats: Operators must be at least 12 years old to operate motorized boats with engines over 10 horsepower. Those aged 12 to 15 may operate such vessels only with an adult (18 or older) on board for supervision.

Personal Watercraft: Operators must be at least 16 years old to operate a PWC (i.e. jet skis) independently. Those aged 12 to 15 may operate a PWC only if an adult is physically present on the craft, and only if they have a Boater Education Certificate.

6.3 Rental Requirements

Boat operators in Ohio cannot rent a boat powered by a motor of more than 10 hp unless they either:

Sign a statement confirming successful completion of a boating safety course, OR
Pass an abbreviated exam with a score of 90% or higher, administered by the rental business

7. Personal Watercraft (PWC) Special Requirements

Personal watercraft must adhere to the same rules as any other powerboat, plus additional specific requirements:

PFD Requirement: All operators and passengers must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, III, or V PFD at all times
Lanyard-Type Engine Cut-Off Switch: If equipped by manufacturer, the operator must attach the lanyard to their person, clothing, or PFD
Operational Hours: PWCs cannot be operated between sunset and sunrise
Fire Extinguisher: A B-1 class fire extinguisher must be carried on board
Reckless Operation: Dangerous maneuvers such as wake jumping too close to other boats are prohibited
Age Requirement: Must be at least 16 years old with a Boater Education Certificate

8. Water Sports and Towing Requirements

When towing water skiers, tubers, or other persons on towed devices:

Observer Requirement: Boats must have an observer at least 10 years old monitoring the towed person, in addition to the operator
PFD Requirement: Those being towed must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, or III PFD (or Type V designed for water-skiing)
Time Restrictions: Towing is not allowed between sunset and sunrise
Restricted Areas: Towing is prohibited in designated swim zones

9. Accident Reporting Requirements

Operators involved in boating accidents must file an accident report with the ODNR if the incident results in:

Death or disappearance of any person
Injury requiring medical treatment beyond first aid
Property damage exceeding $500

Reporting Deadline: The formal Boat Accident Report must be submitted within 5 days of the occurrence to the Recreational Boating Accident Manager at the Ohio DNR, Division of Watercraft.

Operator Duties at Scene: Vessel operators involved in accidents must:

Stop at the scene
Render assistance to anyone injured or in danger without endangering their own vessel
Provide operator and owner information to injured persons or law enforcement

10. Reckless and Prohibited Operations

The following activities are prohibited and can result in citations or criminal charges:

Reckless Operation: Operating with willful disregard for the safety of persons or property
Excessive Speed: Operating at speeds that endanger persons or property
Unsafe Proximity: Operating at speed or proximity requiring vessels to swerve to avoid collision
Negligent Operation: Failure to operate in a reasonable and prudent manner

11. Changes in Ohio Boating Law (2025-2026)

11.1 Recent Updates

As of November 2025, Ohio's core boating regulations have remained relatively stable. The most recent version of the Ohio Boat Operators Guide was revised in October 2024. Key areas of legislative activity include:

11.2 Marijuana Legislation (Ongoing)

Senate Bill 56 and related legislation continue to progress through the Ohio General Assembly. The October 2025 House version includes comprehensive changes to marijuana laws and regulations for intoxicating hemp products. However, the prohibition on marijuana use in watercraft is already established and not subject to change under these bills.

11.3 DUI/OVI Law Changes (April 2025)

Liv's Law and related legislation increased fines for first OVI offenses from $375 to $565 effective April 2025. While these changes primarily affect vehicular offenses, BUI enforcement may see increased scrutiny and potential penalty adjustments.

11.4 Looking Ahead to 2026

No major changes to core boating regulations are expected in 2026. Boaters should:

Monitor ODNR Division of Parks and Watercraft announcements
Check for updates to the Ohio Boat Operators Guide annually
Stay informed about local restrictions on specific bodies of water
Review changes to marijuana legislation that may affect penalties

Important Contact Information

Ohio Department of Natural Resources

Division of Parks and Watercraft

Phone: 1-877-4BOATER (1-877-426-2837)

Address: 2045 Morse Road, Building A, Columbus, OH 43229

Website: watercraft.ohiodnr.gov

U.S. Coast Guard

Emergency: Channel 16 VHF-FM radio

Non-emergency: 1-800-253-7465

VanHo Law

Phone: 330-653-8511 or 888-535-6446 (O-H-I-O)