Federal and State Requirements, Float Plan
Federal safety equipment requirements for vessels:
Don't get caught without the right gear. These are Federal minimum requirements - state and local laws and common sense may dictate carrying additional equipment.
Federally Required Equipment
Guide to Federally required minimum requirements, by size of boat. Contains basic info from above, but a bit easier to find requirements. Again, state and local laws and common sense may dictate carrying additional equipment.
Washington State Boating Rules and Regulations
To ensure your and others' safety on the water, get to know the state regulations for operating your boat
Seattle Water & Boating Regulations & Information
From the Seattle Harbor Patrol. Includes local speed regulations.
US Coast Guard Auxiliary Float Plan form
PDF form you can fill out before you go boating, and leave with a trusted friend or family member. Do NOT file with the Coast Guard.
US Coast Guard Auxiliary Vessel Safety Checks: FREE
Vessel Safety Check form
Completed by a U.S. Coast Guard approved Vessel Examiner, also a useful reference.