Nevada Administrative Code
Chapter 488 - Watercraft
EQUIPMENT AND OPERATION
Section 488.405 - Life preservers: Number and types required

Universal Citation: NV Admin Code 488.405

Current through February 27, 2024

1. Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person shall not use any vessel, regardless of its method of propulsion:

(a) Which is less than 16 feet in length, unless there is at least one life jacket on board for each person; or

(b) Which is 16 feet or more in length, unless there is at least one life jacket on board for each person and at least one personal flotation device, which is capable of being thrown, on board.

2. The requirements of subsection 1 do not apply to the operation of a racing shell, rowing scull, racing canoe or racing kayak which is:

(a) Manually propelled;

(b) Recognized by a national or international racing association for use in competitive racing;

(c) Designed to carry and does carry only equipment which is solely for competitive racing; and

(d) Competitively racing or practicing for a competitive race.

3. The requirements of paragraph (b) of subsection 1 do not apply to a person who uses a canoe or kayak that is enclosed by a deck and spray skirt if:

(a) Except as otherwise provided in paragraph (b), the person has on board a life jacket; or

(b) The person wears a life jacket for special use approved by the United States Coast Guard for that use.

4. On any vessel, a life jacket of special use or hybrid type may be used in lieu of a life jacket of another type if the life jacket of special use or hybrid type is approved by the United States Coast Guard and:

(a) If it is of special use, is worn and used in accordance with the instructions marked on it.

(b) If it is of hybrid type, is worn while the vessel is underway, except when the user is in an enclosed space.

5. For the purposes of this section, a vessel is being used if the vessel:

(a) Is upon the waters of this State, including, without limitation, if it is tied or fastened to a dock, mooring or shore; and

(b) Is not aground on the shore.

Bd. of Wildlife Comm'rs, Motorboat Reg. No. 100 §30, eff. 2-10-82-NAC A 1-1-83; 12-3-90; 11-23-94; R206-97, 6-19-98; A by R149-20A, eff. 2/25/2021

NRS 488.045, 488.193, 501.181

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