R651-204. Regulating Waterway Markers  


R651-204-1. Placement of Waterway Markers
Latest version.

No person shall place on or near the waters of this state any waterway marker, except a diver's flag, without written authorization by a federal agency operating within federal authority or by the division.


R651-204-2. Hazards to Navigation
Latest version.

(1) Definitions

(a) "Hazard to Navigation" means, any object permanently placed on or under the waters of this state that is an obstacle to navigation, including but not limited to:

(i) pier or shoreline dock greater than 75 feet

(ii) floating dock or inflatable recreational equipment;

(iii) commercial fishing or scientific devices;

(iv) navigational aids;

(v) slalom courses, jump/rail or other recreational device;

(vi) vessels moored outside of a designated mooring area.

(b) "Permanent" means intended to be left on the waterway overnight or unattended during the day.

(2) No person shall place any permanent or anchored objects on the waters of this state without written authorization by a federal agency operating within federal authority or by the division.

(3) All permitted water obstacles must be visibly marked with the owner's name with letters that are:

(a) a contrasting color to the object; and

(b) at least one inch in height with the letter width proportionate to the height.

(4) Each permitted water obstacle must be marked with lights if placed overnight. Marker lights

(a) must meet United States Coast Guard requirements;

(b) must float at least 39 inches above the water;

(c) must be an amber or white color flashing light that flashes a minimum of 30 flashes per minute and is visible for up to one-half mile; and

(d) if buoyed, the buoy must be self-righting and have a three inch silver radar reflective band around the top.

(5) Placement of water obstacles without a proper permit or failure to abide by the permit requirements constitute a violation of board rules and the water obstacles must be removed by the entity that placed the obstacle immediately upon notification. Water obstacles that create a hazard may be removed by the division at the owner's expense. Any damages incurred during removal by the division will not be the responsibility of the division.


R651-204-3. Destruction of Waterway Markers
Latest version.

No person shall remove, destroy, or damage any waterway marker authorized to be placed by a federal agency or by the division; nor shall any person moor any vessel to a waterway marker, except mooring buoys.