First District Northern Region
Maine, New Hampshire, Massachusetts & Rhode Island

FEDERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR PADDLE CRAFT
(AS OF 23 MAY 2008)

 The following items are required minimum equipment for paddle craft:

LIFE JACKETS (PFD’s)

1 Type 1, II, III or V Life Jacket is required for each Person on Board, Type V must be worn in accordance with label directions.

 Children under 13 must wear PFD (Life Jacket) (if the state has established wear requirements they take precedence over Federal Requirements)

SOUND PRODUCING DEVICE

Some Means of making an efficient signal is required.

VISUAL DISTRESS DEVICE

If operating between sunset and sunrise must carry a Visual Distress Signal suitable for night use – either 1 electric light (flashlight) or 3 combination day/night flares.

NAVIGATION LIGHTS

If operating between sunset and sunrise, 1 white light (flashlight acceptable) or Navigation lights for a sailing vessel.

ANCHORING LIGHTS

Not required unless anchoring in or near a narrow channel or fairway – 1 all around white light.