Iowa Admin. Code r. 571-41.2

Current through Register Vol. 47, No. 11, December 11, 2024

Rule 571-41.2 - Waterway markers

Waterway markers used on the waters of this state shall be as follows:

(1)State aids to navigation.

a. A red-topped white buoy, red buoy or sign shall indicate that side of the channel to be kept to the right side of the vessel when entering the channel from the main water body or when proceeding upstream.

b. A green-topped white buoy, green buoy or sign shall indicate that side of the channel to be kept to the left of a vessel when entering the channel from the main water body or when proceeding upstream.

c. Buoys or signs described in "a" and "b" above shall normally be used in pairs and only for the purpose of marking a clearly defined channel.

d. State aids to navigation shall be numbered or lettered for identification. Red buoys and signs marking channels shall be identified with even numbers, and green buoys and signs marking channels shall be identified with odd numbers, the numbers increasing from the main water body or proceeding upstream. Buoys and signs indicating the center of a waterway will be identified by letters of the alphabet. All numbers and letters used to identify state aids to navigation shall be preceded by the letters "IA".

e. Letters and numerals used with state aids to navigation shall be white, in block characters of good proportion, and spaced in a manner which will provide maximum legibility. Such letters and numerals shall be at least six inches in height.

f. The shapes of state aids to navigation shall be compatible with the shapes established by U.S. Coast Guard regulations for the equivalent U.S. Coast Guard aids to navigation.

g. Where refiectorized materials are used, a red reflector will be used on a red buoy, and a green reflector on a green buoy.

(2)Regulatory markers.

a. A diamond shape of international orange with white center shall indicate danger. The nature of the danger may be indicated by words or well-known abbreviations in black letters inside the diamond shape, or above or below it, or both, on white background.

b. A diamond shape of international orange with a cross of the same color within it against a white center without qualifying explanation shall indicate a zone from which all vessels are excluded.

c. A circle of international orange with white center will indicate a control or restriction. The nature of the control or restriction shall be indicated by words, numerals, or well-known abbreviations in black letters inside the circle. Additional explanation may be given above or below it in black letters on white background.

d. A rectangular shape of international orange with white center will indicate information, other than a danger, control or restriction, which may contribute to health, safety or well-being. The message will be presented within the rectangle in black letters.

e. Letters or numerals used with regulatory markers shall be black, in block characters of good proportion, spaced in a manner which will provide maximum legibility, and of a size which will provide the necessary degree of visibility.

Iowa Admin. Code r. 571-41.2