District of Columbia boating lawsLife Jacket Rules

District of Columbia Life Jacket Rules (2026)

Conditional: DC follows the federal rule: children under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life jacket when a recreational vessel is underway, except below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

ConditionalVerified Jul 7, 2026

DC follows the federal rule: children under 13 must wear a USCG-approved life jacket when a recreational vessel is underway, except below deck or in an enclosed cabin.

Official source: mpdc.dc.gov

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