Section 250-RICR-80-00-1.7 - Personal Flotation Devices1.7.1ApplicabilityA. These regulations shall apply to all vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the state: 1. Personal Flotation Devices Required a. No person may use a vessel less than 16 feet (4.9 meters) in length including canoes, kayaks, sailboards, kiteboards and paddleboards unless: (1) At least one wearable U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD is on a vessel for each person on board.(2) Each wearable PFD is used in accordance with any requirements on the U.S. Coast Guard approved label and used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations for its intended use.(3) All operators amp; passengers of canoes, kayaks, sailboards, kiteboards, paddleboards, and any other paddlecraft shall wear at US Coast Guard approved PFD at all times while underway regardless of age.b. No person may use a vessel 16 feet (4.9 meters) or more in length unless: (1) At least one wearable U.S. Coast Guard approved PFD is on a vessel for each person on board.(2) Each wearable PFD is used in accordance with any requirements on the U.S. Coast Guard approved label and used in accordance with the manufacturer's recommendations for its intended use.(3) One U.S. Coast Guard approved throwable PFD is on a vessel in addition to the number of wearable PFD's required.2. Stowage a. No person may use a vessel unless each wearable PFD is readily accessible.b. No person may use a vessel unless each throwable PFD is readily accessible.3. Conditions: Approval: Marking a. No person may use a vessel unless each PFD required is: In serviceable condition, i.e. all straps, hardware, cover, flotation material, in undamaged condition.b. Legibly marked with the approval number from the U.S. Coast Guard as specified in 46 C.F.R. § 160, incorporated above at § 1.4(D) of this Part for items subject to approval.c. Of an appropriate size for the person for whom it is intended.4. Flotation Devices: Children Pursuant to R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-22-9.2, any person transporting a child under 13 years of age in a recreational vessel less than 65 feet (19.8 meters) in length on the waters of this state shall require that the child wear a wearable PFD approved by the U.S. Coast Guard while underway, unless below deck in a closed cabin.
B. Exemptions 1. Racing shells, Rowing sculls, racing kayaks, and any other vessel engaged in a sanctioned regatta, race or a practice held within 48 hours of the sanctioned event are exempt from § 1.7 of this Part.2. Canoes, kayaks, sailboards, kiteboards and paddleboards 16 feet (4.9 meters) in length and greater are exempted from the carriage requirements of having one throwable PFD on board the vessel.250 R.I. Code R. 250-RICR-80-00-1.7
Amended effective 4/2/2023