Wisconsin Administrative Code
Department of Natural Resources
NR 1-99 - Fish, Game and Enforcement, Forestry and Recreation
Chapter NR 5 - Boat Rules And Registration
Section NR 5.06 - Display of numbers or decals on boats

Universal Citation: WI Admin Code ยง NR 5.06

Current through November 25, 2024

(1) The assigned number shall be painted on, or attached to, each side of the forward half of the boat for which it was issued. The numbers shall be placed on the hull of the boat in such position as to provide clear legibility for identification. The numbers shall read from left to right and shall be in block characters of good proportion not less than 3 inches in height and shall be spaced as provided in s. NR 5.05(2). The numbers shall be of a color which will contrast with the color of the background and so maintained as to be clearly visible and legible; i.e., dark numbers on a light background, or light numbers on a dark background.

(2) Upon being issued a certificate of number card and certification decals, the owner of the boat shall permanently affix and display the decals on each side of the vessel, 3 inches aft (to the rear) of and directly in line with the numbers.

(3) Upon being issued a registration card and registration decals, the owner shall permanently affix and display the registration decals on the transom (back of the boat) of the boat on each side of the federally documented name of the vessel in a manner so both decals are visible. If the federally documented name is displayed on the sides of the hull, the registration decals may be displayed 3 inches aft (to the rear) of and directly in line with the name.

(4) No person may display on either side of the forward half of any numbered boat any number other than the registration number issued for the boat.

(5)

(ag) Upon assignment of a hull identification number required under s. 30.533(2), Stats., the owner shall permanently affix the assigned hull identification number to the starboard side of the transom of the vessel to which the hull identification number is assigned. Each hull identification number must be carved, burned, stamped, embossed, molded, bonded, or otherwise permanently affixed to the watercraft so that alteration, removal, or replacement would be obvious. Use of a plate must be fastened so that removal would cause scarring or damage to surrounding hull area. Hull identification number characters must be no less than 1/4 inch in height and not attached to any removable part. The assigned hull identification number must be permanently affixed in 2 places.

(ar) The primary hull identification number in watercraft with transoms shall be affixed to the starboard outboard side within 2 inches of the top of transom, gunwale, or hull deck joint, whichever is lowest. On vessels without transoms or impractical to use transom, to the starboard outboard side of hull, aft, within one foot of the stern and within 2 inches of the top of the hull side, gunwale or hull deck joint, whichever is lowest. On catamarans and pontoon boats with replaceable hulls, to the aft crossbeam, within 1 foot of the starboard hull attachment.

(b) The duplicate hull identification number shall be affixed in an unexposed location on the interior of the vessel or beneath a fitting or item of hardware.

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