LAKE GEORGE SPECIAL NAVIGATION RULES

In addition to the NYS Navigation Law, the NYS Lake George Park Commission implements various special navigation rules on the waters of Lake George.  Boaters should review these rules carefully as they are strictly enforced by the Lake George Park Commission Marine Patrol.

For complete text of the NYS Lake George Park Commission go to the Lake George Park Commission’s Rules and Regulations

State law requires all vessels all vessels 18 ft. or longer (or any vessel with 10 H.P. or larger motor) to register with the LGPC and display a User Fee Decal.

SAFETY

Speed Limits (in All Areas):
• Maximum 45 MPH: 6 AM to 9 PM
• Maximum 25 MPH: 9 PM to 6 AM
• Maximum 5 MPH: No Wake Zones, within 100 feet of docks, moorings, anchored vessels, etc.

Waterskiing:
All persons waterskiing, tubing, etc. must wear an approved Type III personal flotation device (PFD).  An observer at least 10 years old is required.

Navigation Lights:
Lights must be on from sunset to sunrise.

Equipment:
• U.S.C.G. approved lifesaving device (PFD) required for each person aboard.
• Children under 12 years of age MUST wear PFD at all times when underway.
• Motor boats require: B-1 type fire extinguisher, horn or whistle, anchor and line, distress flag or flares.

WATER QUALITY PROTECTION

Pollution and Sanitation:
• It is unlawful to throw, discharge or abandon any foul or deleterious substance into the lake.
• Washing dishes, bathing or use of any soaps or detergents is prohibited.
• Sanitary facilities must be permanently sealed to prevent discharge into the lake.

Invasive Species:
It is unlawful to launch a boat in Lake George without inspection and removal of invasive species.

RULES OF OPERATION

State law requires all vessels all vessels 18 ft. or longer (or any vessel with
10 H.P. or larger motor) to register with the LGPC (link) and display a User Fee Decal.

Overtaking/Passing: Boat being passed has the right of way.

Crossing: Boat on the right has the right of way.

Meeting Head On: Boats should keep to the right of each other.

Sailing/Non-Motorized Vessels: Have the right of way, except in a narrow channel or when they are the overtaking vessel.

Vessel Noise:
Vessel noise regulations are strictly enforced. If unsure your vessel will comply, Contact the LGPC Marine Patrol for a vessel noise test.

BOATING WHILE INTOXICATED IS A CRIME. BE SOBER—BE SAFE!

Anchoring and Mooring:
• Anchoring or recreating is prohibited within 200 feet of shore along private property.
• Sandy Bay: No anchoring or tie-offs are allowed.
• Paradise Bay: No anchoring or tie-offs are allowed.

Personal Watercraft (PWC):
• Legal hours of PWC operation: 8 AM to 7 PM.
• PWC speed limit: 5 MPH within 500 ft. of shore.
• Mandatory NY State safety certificate required for all ages and must carry while operating.
• Operators must be at least 14 years of age.
• Tour guide supervision required for PWC rentals.

Para-sailing:
Para-sailing is prohibited unless a permit is issued by the LGPC.

Scuba Diving:
Scuba diving is prohibited in navigable channels and where it would interfere with free and safe access to docks and boathouses. Flags and markers are required. Boats must stay at least 100 feet clear of diving flags.