Safe Watercraft Operation |
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Bryan Welk
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August 2026: Know the rules for operating personal watercraft by Bryan Welk from the Cass County Sheriff's Office.
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We have received complaints involving personal watercraft like Jet Skis and Jet Ski operators. Our countless lakes and waterways make personal watercraft — commonly known as Jet Skis or WaveRunners — a popular way to enjoy the outdoors. While these machines provide excitement and recreation, they also require responsible operation. Personal watercraft are capable of high speeds and quick acceleration, making operator awareness and compliance with state laws essential for preventing injuries, protecting natural resources, and ensuring everyone can safely enjoy Minnesota’s waterways.
Know the law
In Minnesota, personal watercraft (PWC) are legally classified as motorboats. As a result, operators must follow all boating laws in addition to regulations specific to PWCs. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has established rules designed to reduce collisions, protect swimmers, and promote responsible boating.
Life jackets
Every person operating or riding on a personal watercraft must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device that is suitable for personal watercraft use. Unlike occupants of many traditional boats, riders cannot simply have a life jacket on board — it must be worn at all times while the watercraft is underway.
Operate only during legal hours
Minnesota law prohibits operating a personal watercraft between one hour before sunset and 9:30 a.m. Reduced visibility significantly increases the risk of collisions with other boaters, swimmers, docks, and floating hazards.
Observe no-wake zones
Operators must travel at slow no-wake speed — 5 mph or less — when within 150 feet of:
• Shorelines
• Docks
• Swimmers
• Swimming rafts
• Anchored or non-motorized watercraft
These restrictions help reduce shoreline erosion, protect paddlers and anglers, and improve safety in congested areas.
Avoid reckless operation
Many boating accidents occur because of excessive speed or careless maneuvering. Safe operators should:
• Maintain a safe distance from other boats.
• Watch continuously for swimmers and paddle craft.
• Avoid weaving through boat traffic.
• Never jump wakes close to other vessels.
• Reduce speed in congested areas or rough water.
• Always keep a proper lookout in every direction.
Remember that personal watercraft steer using water thrust. Releasing the throttle completely reduces steering control, making emergency maneuvers more difficult.
Youth operators and boater education
Minnesota has expanded its watercraft operator education requirements in recent years. Depending on the operator’s age and date of birth, a valid watercraft operator’s permit may now be required to legally operate a personal watercraft. These requirements are being phased in over several years to improve boating safety across the state. Operators should verify current eligibility requirements before heading onto the water.
Be courteous to others
Minnesota lakes are shared by anglers, kayakers, swimmers, sailboats, paddleboarders, and families enjoying the shoreline. Responsible personal watercraft operators can help everyone enjoy the water by:
• Minimizing unnecessary wake near docks and shorelines.
• Keeping noise to a reasonable level.
• Giving anglers and non-motorized watercraft plenty of room.
• Respecting environmentally sensitive areas.
• Following all posted local restrictions. Courtesy is one of the simplest ways to prevent conflicts and improve safety on busy lakes.
Help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species
Before leaving any lake or river:
• Remove all aquatic plants from your watercraft and trailer.
• Drain all water from the craft and equipment.
• Dispose of unwanted bait properly.
• Clean and dry your equipment before entering another body of water.
These simple steps help prevent the spread of zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, and other invasive species that threaten Minnesota’s lakes.
Enjoy the water responsibly
Safe boating is everyone’s responsibility. Following Minnesota’s personal watercraft laws, maintaining situational awareness, wearing proper safety equipment, and respecting fellow lake users greatly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Whether you’re an experienced rider or operating a Jet Ski for the first time, responsible operation helps ensure Minnesota’s lakes remain safe, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone for both those on and off the water.
Know the law
In Minnesota, personal watercraft (PWC) are legally classified as motorboats. As a result, operators must follow all boating laws in addition to regulations specific to PWCs. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources has established rules designed to reduce collisions, protect swimmers, and promote responsible boating.
Life jackets
Every person operating or riding on a personal watercraft must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved personal flotation device that is suitable for personal watercraft use. Unlike occupants of many traditional boats, riders cannot simply have a life jacket on board — it must be worn at all times while the watercraft is underway.
Operate only during legal hours
Minnesota law prohibits operating a personal watercraft between one hour before sunset and 9:30 a.m. Reduced visibility significantly increases the risk of collisions with other boaters, swimmers, docks, and floating hazards.
Observe no-wake zones
Operators must travel at slow no-wake speed — 5 mph or less — when within 150 feet of:
• Shorelines
• Docks
• Swimmers
• Swimming rafts
• Anchored or non-motorized watercraft
These restrictions help reduce shoreline erosion, protect paddlers and anglers, and improve safety in congested areas.
Avoid reckless operation
Many boating accidents occur because of excessive speed or careless maneuvering. Safe operators should:
• Maintain a safe distance from other boats.
• Watch continuously for swimmers and paddle craft.
• Avoid weaving through boat traffic.
• Never jump wakes close to other vessels.
• Reduce speed in congested areas or rough water.
• Always keep a proper lookout in every direction.
Remember that personal watercraft steer using water thrust. Releasing the throttle completely reduces steering control, making emergency maneuvers more difficult.
Youth operators and boater education
Minnesota has expanded its watercraft operator education requirements in recent years. Depending on the operator’s age and date of birth, a valid watercraft operator’s permit may now be required to legally operate a personal watercraft. These requirements are being phased in over several years to improve boating safety across the state. Operators should verify current eligibility requirements before heading onto the water.
Be courteous to others
Minnesota lakes are shared by anglers, kayakers, swimmers, sailboats, paddleboarders, and families enjoying the shoreline. Responsible personal watercraft operators can help everyone enjoy the water by:
• Minimizing unnecessary wake near docks and shorelines.
• Keeping noise to a reasonable level.
• Giving anglers and non-motorized watercraft plenty of room.
• Respecting environmentally sensitive areas.
• Following all posted local restrictions. Courtesy is one of the simplest ways to prevent conflicts and improve safety on busy lakes.
Help stop the spread of aquatic invasive species
Before leaving any lake or river:
• Remove all aquatic plants from your watercraft and trailer.
• Drain all water from the craft and equipment.
• Dispose of unwanted bait properly.
• Clean and dry your equipment before entering another body of water.
These simple steps help prevent the spread of zebra mussels, Eurasian watermilfoil, and other invasive species that threaten Minnesota’s lakes.
Enjoy the water responsibly
Safe boating is everyone’s responsibility. Following Minnesota’s personal watercraft laws, maintaining situational awareness, wearing proper safety equipment, and respecting fellow lake users greatly reduces the risk of accidents and injuries. Whether you’re an experienced rider or operating a Jet Ski for the first time, responsible operation helps ensure Minnesota’s lakes remain safe, enjoyable, and accessible for everyone for both those on and off the water.
