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Boating and Safety Laws for South Carolina and Georgia

At Lake Hartwell Pontoon Rentals, we are committed to ensuring that your boating experience is safe, enjoyable, and compliant with all local regulations. To help you navigate the waters of Lake Hartwell and beyond, we’ve compiled important information about boating and safety laws for South Carolina and Georgia.

South Carolina Boating Laws

  • In South Carolina, anyone 18 years or older can legally operate a boat without any special requirements. Unlike younger operators, adults do not need a boating safety course or a boating license to drive a boat. However, they are still required to follow all state boating laws, including speed limits, safety equipment regulations, and rules regarding alcohol consumption while operating a vessel.
  • Boater Education Requirement: In South Carolina, anyone under 18 must complete an approved boater education course before operating a boat, personal watercraft (such as a jet ski), or a specialty propcraft with a motor of 10 horsepower or more.
  • Penalties: Failing to carry your Boater Education Card when required can result in a fine.

For more information on South Carolina boating laws, visit the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources website.

Georgia Boating Laws

  • Age and Operator Restrictions:
    • Under 12 Years: May not operate a personal watercraft (PWC) or any vessel 16 feet or longer. They may operate a boat less than 16 feet and powered by a motor of 30 horsepower or less only if accompanied by a competent adult.
    • Ages 12 to 15: May not operate vessels 16 feet or longer but can operate a PWC or a vessel less than 16 feet if they:
      • Have passed a boating education course approved by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) or
      • Are accompanied by a competent adult.
    • 16 Years and Older: May operate any boat or PWC if they have proper identification on board, such as a driver’s license or another government-issued ID with a photograph, description, and date of birth.
  • Enforcement: Georgia law enforcement officers patrol the waterways for safety. Follow all boating laws and guidelines to ensure a pleasant experience.
  • Carry the Card: Operators required to have a Boater Education Card must carry it on board and present it to enforcement officers upon request.
  • Penalties: Not carrying your Boater Education Card when required can result in a fine.
  • Reciprocity: Boating education cards that meet National Association of State Boating Law Administrators (NASBLA) requirements and Canadian Pleasure Craft Operator Cards that meet Transport Canada’s requirements are recognized across all states, territories, and provinces.

For more information on Georgia boating laws, visit the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (GA DNR) website.

Waiver Required: Sign Before You Ride!

Before you hit the water, all renters and operators must complete and sign our rental agreement. This is required for your safety and to ensure a smooth rental experience. Please review and sign the waiver below before operating any of our boats or jet skis. Let’s get you ready for an unforgettable adventure on Lake Hartwell!

Rental Agreement

Boater Safety Checklist:

DO'S

  • I understand that my passengers and I should wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket at all times when boating.
  • I have assigned one responsible adult to keep track of the whereabouts and safety of each child on board.
  • I understand that life jackets sized for adults are unsafe for children.
  • I understand when crossing the path of another boat, I should yield to the boat on my right, (starboard).
  • I understand there is the threat of a collision and its my responsibility to slow down, steer away and/or stop.
  • I understand that when I meet another boat head-on I should steer to the right (starboard).
  • I understand that when I overtake another boat I should pass on the left (port) side, leave plenty of room, and yield (give way) to that boat. If conditions require it, I may pass on the right (starboard) side.
  • I understand that I must yield (give way) to all boats under sail.
  • I acknowledge that rental company staff have explained to me the local laws and regulations that apply to boating in this area. I understand them and will follow them carefully.
  • I understand that five short blasts of a horn or whistle signal danger or need for assistance.
  • I understand that it is recommended that I take a safe boating course approved by NASBLA through the U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary, United States Power Squadrons® and individual states which would help me when I rent or operate boats.
  • I will make sure that there is a lookout other than the boat operator whenever passengers or parts of this boat obstruct the operator's view.
  • I will not operate this boat at speeds that are unsafe for the conditions.
  • I will obey No Wake zones/signs.
  • I have been instructed on how to use the navigation lights and anchor lights on this boat and I will display them properly when visibility is poor.
  • If this boat is equipped with an engine cut-off device, I will use it.

DON'TS

  • I understand that under Federal and/or State law it is a crime to operate a boat while persons are sitting on the front (bow), sides (gunwales), rear (stern), or swim platform. This behavior is considered grossly negligent operation of a boat.
  • I understand that using alcohol, drugs and certain prescription medications may impair my ability to operate this boat safely.
  • I will not operate this boat or allow any-one else to operate this boat while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
  • I will not permit swimming, diving, sliding, or jumping from or near the boat unless the boat motor is turned off, the keys are removed, and I have counted to ten to allow the propeller time to stop spinning.
  • I will check to make sure that the water is deep enough before allowing head-first diving from the boat.
  • I will instruct my passengers never to dive or jump off of a moving boat.
  • I understand that there is an awareness zone that includes the front (bow), sides (gunwales), rear (stern) and swim platform, and extends 30 feet behind and around this boat.
  • I will take a head count to make sure all passengers are present and accounted for before starting the motor.
  • I understand that the motor of this boat produces Carbon Monoxide, a colorless, odorless, and lethal gas that can quickly affect people in the awareness zone.
  • I will not use any generator that is not supplied as part of the rental package on this boat.
  • I understand that this boat has no brakes, so that stopping quickly may be difficult or impossible if I am going too fast.
  • I understand that overloading this boat is unsafe and against the law.
  • I will anchor where it is easy for other boats to see this boat (so long as the area is anchorable).
  • I will make sure that I, or someone who knows how to operate the boat, remain on board whenever the boat is unanchored.

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