2006 Minnesota Statutes

CHAPTER 86B. WATER SAFETY, WATERCRAFT, AND WATERCRAFT TITLING

POLICY AND DEFINITIONS

86B.001 WATER USE POLICY.
It is the policy of this state, which is blessed with an abundance of water, to promote its full
use and enjoyment by all of the people, now and in the future, to promote safety for persons and
property in connection with the use of the waters of the state, to promote uniformity of laws
relating to the use, and to conform with use requirements of the United States.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 1

86B.005 DEFINITIONS.
    Subdivision 1. Applicability. The definitions in this section apply to this chapter.
    Subd. 2. City. "City" means a home rule charter or statutory city.
    Subd. 3. Commissioner. "Commissioner" means the commissioner of natural resources.
    Subd. 4. Dealer. "Dealer" means a person:
(1) engaged in the business of manufacturing or selling new or used watercraft;
(2) having an established place of business for the sale, trade, and display of the watercraft;
and
(3) having in possession watercraft for the purpose of sale or trade.
    Subd. 5. Horsepower. "Horsepower" means the power rating established for a motor by the
manufacturer or, if a rating is not established, the power rating established by the commissioner.
    Subd. 6. Length. "Length" of a watercraft means the straight-line distance from the foremost
part of the craft to the aftermost part of the craft, measured parallel to the centerline, excluding
sheer. Bowsprits, outboard motor brackets, rudders, and other attachments are not included in the
length measurement.
    Subd. 7. License. "License" means the authentic document used to designate the numbers
assigned a watercraft and to renew the designation.
    Subd. 8. License agent. "License agent" means the commissioner of natural resources, the
commissioner of public safety, and deputy registrars of motor vehicles acting under section 168.33.
    Subd. 9. Motorboat. "Motorboat" means a watercraft propelled in any manner by machinery,
including watercraft temporarily equipped with detachable motors.
    Subd. 10. Operate. "Operate" means to navigate or otherwise use a watercraft.
    Subd. 11. Operator. "Operator" means the person who operates or controls the navigation or
use of a watercraft.
    Subd. 12. Owner. "Owner" means a person having a property right or title to a watercraft
other than a security interest. Owner includes a person entitled to the use or possession of a
watercraft, subject to an interest in another person, reserved or created by agreement that secures
payment or performance of an obligation, but owner does not include a lessee under a lease not
intended as security.
    Subd. 13. Paddle boat. "Paddle boat" means a nonmotorized watercraft 19 feet in length or
less that is propelled solely by a paddle wheel peddled by an operator or passenger.
    Subd. 14. Person. "Person" means an individual, partnership, corporation, the state and its
agencies and subdivisions, and any other legal entity.
    Subd. 14a. Personal watercraft. "Personal watercraft" means a motorboat that:
(1) is powered by an inboard motor powering a water jet pump or by an outboard or
propeller-driven motor; and
(2) is designed to be operated by a person or persons sitting, standing, or kneeling on the
craft, rather than in the conventional manner of sitting or standing inside a motorboat.
    Subd. 15. Rent. "Rent" watercraft means to make a watercraft available for the use of
others in connection with a business.
    Subd. 16. Sailboard. "Sailboard" means a single passenger, nonmotorized watercraft using a
surfboard type hull and a free sail system which, without capsizing, allows the sail to lie flat in the
water when not being supported by the operator.
    Subd. 16a. Slow-no wake. "Slow-no wake" means operation of a watercraft at the slowest
possible speed necessary to maintain steerage, but in no case greater than five miles per hour.
    Subd. 17. Underway or in use. "Underway or in use" means a watercraft in operation or use
unless it is securely fastened to a dock or other permanent mooring.
    Subd. 18. Watercraft. "Watercraft" means any contrivance used or designed for navigation
on water, except:
(1) a duck boat during the duck hunting season;
(2) a rice boat during the harvest season; or
(3) a seaplane.
    Subd. 19. Waters of this state. "Waters of this state" means waters capable of substantial
beneficial public use and waters to which the public has access that are within the territorial
limits of this state, including boundary waters.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 2; 1991 c 225 s 1,2

GENERAL PROVISIONS

86B.101 WATERCRAFT SAFETY PROGRAM.
    Subdivision 1. Safety program. The commissioner shall continue and expand the
comprehensive boat safety and education program. The commissioner shall cooperate with
boaters, governmental subdivisions, state agencies, other states, and the federal government in the
operation of the program.
    Subd. 2. Youth watercraft safety course. (a) The commissioner shall establish an
educational course and a testing program for personal watercraft and watercraft operators and for
persons age 12 or older but younger than age 18 required to take the watercraft safety course. The
commissioner shall prescribe a written test as part of the course. A personal watercraft educational
course and testing program that emphasizes safe and legal operation must be required for persons
age 13 or older but younger than age 18 operating personal watercraft.
(b) The commissioner shall issue a watercraft operator's permit to a person age 12 or older
but younger than age 18 who successfully completes the educational program and the written test.
    Subd. 3. Operator's permit. The commissioner shall issue a watercraft operator's permit
to a person who successfully qualifies for a watercraft operator's permit under the boat safety
education program.
    Subd. 4. Boat safety education program; reciprocity with other states. The commissioner
may enter into reciprocity agreements or otherwise certify boat safety education programs from
other states that are substantially similar to in-state programs. The commissioner shall issue a
watercraft operator's permit to a person who provides proof of completion of a program subject
to a reciprocity agreement or certified as substantially similar.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 3; 1993 c 310 s 1; 1998 c 400 s 1; 1998 c 401 s 27; 2003
c 28 art 1 s 11

86B.105 SHERIFF'S SAFETY PROGRAM.
(a) The sheriff of each county shall maintain a program of search, rescue, buoying or
marking, patrol, removal of hazards to navigation, and inspection of watercraft for rent, lease, or
hire. The sheriff shall prohibit the use of any watercraft or safety equipment for rent, lease, or hire
that does not comply with the standards of safety for the watercraft or equipment prescribed by
the commissioner. The sheriff shall investigate watercraft accidents and drownings and report
findings to the commissioner on a form prescribed by the commissioner.
(b) The county board may authorize the employment of additional personnel to carry out the
provisions of this section.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 4

86B.106 BARRING VEHICLES FROM UNSAFE ICE.
(a) Whenever ice conditions on a body of water deteriorate to such an extent that there is
substantial danger to persons using motorized vehicles, including snowmobiles and all-terrain
vehicles, the sheriff of the county where the body of water is located may prohibit or restrict the
use of motorized vehicles on all or a portion of the body of water. If the body of water is located
in more than one county, all counties involved must coordinate any prohibitions or restrictions
that are imposed. A county sheriff acting under this section shall, as soon as practicable, post all
common access sites and publicize the prohibitions or restrictions. The commissioner must be
notified immediately and may review and suspend any restrictions imposed. Restrictions may be
lifted as soon as conditions warrant.
(b) A person may not operate a motorized vehicle in violation of a prohibition or restriction
imposed under this section.
(c) This section does not apply to a person who:
(1) is a member of a sanctioned circuit watercross association and can provide proof of
membership;
(2) operates a snowmobile with a silenced exhaust and is practicing for a sanctioned event;
and
(3) receives written permission from a conservation officer who must set the date, time,
and location of the practice.
History: 1992 c 584 s 1; 1Sp2001 c 2 s 90

86B.107 REMOVAL OF SUBMERGED VEHICLES FROM WATERS OF THE STATE.
    Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) For purposes of this section, "vehicle" means a motor vehicle
as defined in section 97A.015, subdivision 32, or a watercraft as defined in section 86B.005,
subdivision 18 .
(b) For purposes of this section, "owner" means the registered owner, last registered owner,
or legal owner of a vehicle if the vehicle is not registered.
    Subd. 2. Responsibility for removal. (a) The owner of a submerged vehicle is responsible
for removing the vehicle from waters of the state, unless the vehicle is permitted or otherwise
exempt from removal. Removal must be completed within 30 days of the vehicle entering the
water or being discovered in the water, unless the owner is notified in writing by the political
subdivision having jurisdiction that the removal must be completed sooner. Upon request of the
political subdivision the commissioner may extend the 30-day time period for removal.
(b) The owner of the vehicle shall report that the vehicle is submerged in a body of water.
The owner shall report the date and the circumstances surrounding the submergence to the sheriff
of the county where the body of water is located within 48 hours of the vehicle entering the water.
(c) If the vehicle is not removed according to paragraph (a), the political subdivision in
whose jurisdiction the lake or watercourse is located shall remove the vehicle. The owner of the
vehicle is subject to a civil penalty of not less than twice nor more than five times the costs
incurred by the political subdivision to remove, process, and dispose of the vehicle. Civil penalties
imposed under this section may be enforced and distributed as provided in section 115A.99.
(d) The owner of a submerged vehicle is not responsible for removal of the vehicle if the
vehicle was used without the owner's knowledge. This includes, but is not limited to, the operation
of a vehicle that was under the control of a member of the owner's household. If the driver or
operator of the vehicle is known, the driver or operator is responsible for removing the vehicle
according to this section.
History: 2001 c 185 s 15

86B.111 NAVIGATION MARKERS AND BUOYS.
    Subdivision 1. Permit for placement of navigation hazards. The commissioner may
require that a permit is obtained for the placement of a structure or device determined by the
commissioner to constitute a hazard to navigation.
    Subd. 2. Removal and damage to buoys prohibited. Except as authorized by the
commissioner, a person may not obstruct, remove, damage, or destroy a buoy or structure placed
in the waters of this state in accordance with this chapter or by authority of the United States.
    Subd. 3. Uniform marking required for buoys. A person may not place buoys or other
waterway markers unless the markers conform with the uniform marking system established
by the commissioner.
    Subd. 4. Government does not have duty to mark all hazards. The marking of certain
hazards to navigation on, in, or adjacent to the waters of this state by a governmental agency does
not incur a duty to mark all navigational hazards by the agency or another agency.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 5

86B.115 USE OF DOCKS AND STRUCTURES FOR ADVERTISING.
A person may not use a fixed or anchored structure on the waters of this state, not a part of a
pier or dock extending from shore, for advertising purposes.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 6; 1992 c 464 art 1 s 11

86B.121 RACES, COMPETITIONS, AND EXHIBITIONS.
(a) A person may not hold or sponsor any scheduled or public race, regatta, tournament or
other competition or exhibition, or trial race on water or ice, whether or not involving watercraft,
without first having obtained a written permit from the sheriff of the county where the event
is to originate.
(b) The sheriff, in the permit, may exempt watercraft from any of the provisions of this
chapter relating to the licensing, operation, and equipment of watercraft while participating in
the event authorized.
(c) The county's issuance of a permit under this section does not make the county liable for
any injury occurring at the event.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 7; 1992 c 584 s 2; 1997 c 204 s 1

86B.125 LEASED WATERCRAFT.
    Subdivision 1. Safety standards. The commissioner shall prescribe safety standards for
watercraft offered for lease, rent, or hire.
    Subd. 2. Suspension or revocation of license. (a) The commissioner may suspend or revoke
the license of a watercraft offered for rent, lease, or hire:
(1) that does not comply with the safety standards for the watercraft; and
(2) for which the watercraft owner fails to keep a record of the name and address of the
person renting, leasing, or hiring the watercraft, the license number of the watercraft, the date and
time the person takes possession, and the expected time of return of the watercraft.
(b) The record of renting, leasing, or hiring must be preserved for at least six months.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 8

REGULATION OF SURFACE WATER USE

86B.201 STATE LAW AND LOCAL ORDINANCE AUTHORITY.
    Subdivision 1. Application of state law. The provisions of this chapter and of other
applicable laws of this state shall govern the operation, equipment, numbering, and all other
related matters for a watercraft operated on the waters of this state, or the time when an activity
regulated by this chapter may take place.
    Subd. 2. Local authority to adopt ordinance. (a) This chapter does not limit the authority
of a political subdivision of this state to adopt regulations that are not inconsistent with this
chapter and the rules of the commissioner relating to the use of waters of this state that are wholly
or partly within the territorial boundaries of a county or entirely within the boundaries of a city.
(b) A city of the first class of over 200,000 or the park board of the city may forbid the use of
motorboats or boats with attached motors on its lakes.
    Subd. 3. Nonmotorized carry-on access. A person may access any public waters through
public land with a hand-carried nonmotorized watercraft.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 9; 1997 c 226 s 11

86B.205 WATER SURFACE USE ORDINANCE.
    Subdivision 1. Assistance. The commissioner shall develop and publish guidelines to assist
counties adopting water surface use ordinances for waters within their jurisdiction.
    Subd. 2. Surface use ordinances. (a) A county board may, by ordinance, regulate the surface
use of bodies of water located entirely or partially within the county and not located entirely
within the boundary of a single city or lake conservation district established by law.
(b) If a body of water is located within more than one county, a surface use ordinance is not
effective until adopted by the county boards of all the counties where the body of water lies under
section 471.59 or placed into effect by order of the commissioner under subdivision 9.
(c) With the authorization of an affected city or lake conservation district, a county board
may assume and exercise the powers in subdivisions 2 to 5 with respect to bodies of water lying
entirely within that city or lake conservation district. The regulation by the county of the surface
use of a portion of a body of water located within the boundary of a city must be consistent with
any city regulation existing on May 25, 1973, of the surface use of that portion of the body of
water. After January 1, 1975, the ordinance must be consistent with the provisions of this chapter
and rules of the commissioner under this chapter.
    Subd. 3. Prior ordinances invalid without approval. A surface use zoning ordinance
adopted under subdivisions 2 to 5 by a local governmental unit after May 25, 1973, is invalid
unless it is approved by the commissioner.
    Subd. 4. Approval of ordinances. A proposed surface use zoning ordinance must be
submitted to the commissioner for review and approval before adoption. The commissioner
must approve or disapprove the proposed ordinance within 120 days after receiving it. If the
commissioner disapproves the proposed ordinance, the commissioner must return it to the local
governmental unit with a written statement of the reasons for disapproval.
    Subd. 5. County regulatory authority. A county board may:
(1) regulate and police public beaches, public docks, and other public facilities for access
to a body of water, except:
(i) regulations are subject to subdivision 6;
(ii) a county board may not regulate state accesses; and
(iii) a municipality may by ordinance preempt the county from exercising power under this
subdivision within its jurisdiction;
(2) regulate the construction, configuration, size, location, and maintenance of commercial
marinas and their related facilities including parking areas and sanitary facilities in a manner
consistent with other state law and the rules of the commissioner of natural resources, the
Pollution Control Agency, and the commissioner of health, and with the applicable municipal
building codes and zoning ordinances where the marinas are located;
(3) regulate the construction, installation, and maintenance of permanent and temporary
docks and moorings in a manner consistent with state and federal law, permits required under
chapter 103G, and sections 86B.111 and 86B.115;
(4) except as provided in subdivision 6, regulate the type and size of watercraft allowed
to use the body of water and set access fees;
(5) subject to subdivision 6, limit the types and horsepower of motors used on the body
of water;
(6) limit the use of the body of water at various times and the use of various parts of the
body of water;
(7) regulate the speed of watercraft on the body of water and the conduct of other activities
on the body of water to secure the safety of the public and the most general public use; and
(8) contract with other law enforcement agencies to police the body of water and its shore.
    Subd. 6. Public access restrictions. The county board must allow the same types and sizes
of watercraft and horsepower of motors to access and enter the lake or water body as are generally
allowed to be operated on the lake or water body. Special use exceptions that are not dependent
on lakeshore or property ownership may be granted by permit.
    Subd. 7. County acquisition of public access. A county board may acquire by purchase,
gift, or devise land for public access to a lake or stream and may improve the land as a park or
playground if the land is less than ten acres and is contiguous to the meander line of a navigable
lake or stream wholly or partly within the county and not entirely within the corporate limits
of a city.
    Subd. 8. Advisory assistance. The county board may invite any municipal council or town
board or the soil and water conservation district board of supervisors or watershed district board
of managers to designate a representative to advise and consult with the county board on water
use regulation and improvement.
    Subd. 9. Watercraft use rules for local waters. (a) On request of a county, city, or town, the
commissioner may, after determining it to be in the public interest, establish rules relating to the
use of watercraft on waters of this state that border upon or are within, in whole or in part, the
territorial boundaries of the governmental unit.
(b) The rules shall be established in the manner provided by sections 14.02 to 14.62, but may
not be submitted to the attorney general nor filed with the secretary of state until first approved by
resolutions of the county boards of a majority of the counties affected by the proposed rules.
(c) The rules may restrict:
(1) the type and size of watercraft and size of motor that may use the waters affected by the
rule;
(2) the areas of water that may be used by watercraft;
(3) the speed of watercraft;
(4) the times permitted for use of watercraft; or
(5) the minimum distance between watercraft.
(d) When establishing rules, the commissioner shall consider the physical characteristics
of the waters affected, their historical uses, shoreland uses and classification, and other features
unique to the waters affected by the rules.
(e) The commissioner shall inform the users of the waters of the rules affecting them at
least two weeks before the effective date of the rules by distributing copies of the rules and by
posting of the public accesses of the waters. The failure of the commissioner to comply with this
paragraph does not affect the validity of the rules or a conviction for violation of the rules.
(f) The cost of publishing rules and of marking and posting waters under this subdivision
shall be paid by the counties affected by the rules, as apportioned by the commissioner.
(g) Regulations or ordinances relating to the use of waters of this state enacted by a local
governmental unit before January 1, 1972, shall continue in effect until repealed by the local
governmental unit or superseded by a rule of the commissioner adopted under this subdivision.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 10

86B.211 WATER SAFETY RULES.
The commissioner shall adopt rules that relate to:
(1) the application for, form, and numbering of watercraft licenses;
(2) the size, form, reflectorized material, and display of watercraft license numbers, which
must comply with the requirements of the federal watercraft numbering system;
(3) placement and regulation of docks, piers, buoys, mooring or marking devices, and other
structures in the waters of this state;
(4) rules of the road for watercraft navigation;
(5) standards for equipment used in the towing of persons on water skis, aquaplanes,
surfboards, saucers, and other devices;
(6) standards for lights, signals, fire extinguishers, bilge ventilation, and lifesaving
equipment;
(7) standards of safe load and power capacity;
(8) accounting, procedural, and reporting requirements for county sheriff;
(9) designation of swimming or bathing areas;
(10) standards of safety for watercraft offered for rent, lease, or hire;
(11) the use of surface waters of this state by watercraft as provided and in accordance with
section 86B.205, subdivision 9, paragraphs (c) and (d), including:
(i) standards and criteria for resolving conflicts in the use of water surfaces by watercraft;
(ii) procedures for dealing with problems involving more than one local governmental unit;
(iii) procedures for local enforcement; and
(iv) procedures for enforcing the restrictions in section 86B.205, subdivision 9, paragraph
(c); and
(12) other rules determined by the commissioner to be necessary to implement the provisions
of this chapter.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 11; 1991 c 259 s 10

WATERCRAFT OPERATION

86B.301 WATERCRAFT LICENSES REQUIRED.
    Subdivision 1. Requirement. Except as provided in subdivisions 2 and 3, a person may not
operate or give permission for the operation of a watercraft that requires a watercraft license
on the waters of this state unless:
(1) a watercraft license for the watercraft has been issued and is valid during the period of
operation;
(2) the license number is affixed to the watercraft as prescribed by the commissioner; and
(3) a valid registration sticker is affixed to the watercraft as prescribed by the commissioner.
    Subd. 2. Exemptions. A watercraft license is not required for:
(1) a watercraft that is covered by a license or number in full force and effect under federal
law or a federally approved licensing or numbering system of another state, and has not been
within this state for more than 90 consecutive days, which does not include days that a watercraft
is laid up at dock over winter or for repairs at a Lake Superior port or another port in the state;
(2) a watercraft from a country other than the United States that has not been within this state
for more than 90 consecutive days, which does not include days that a watercraft is laid up at
dock over winter or for repairs at a Lake Superior port or another port in the state;
(3) a watercraft owned by the United States, a state, or a political subdivision of a state,
except watercraft used for recreational purposes;
(4) a ship's lifeboat;
(5) a watercraft that has been issued a valid marine document by the United States
government;
(6) a duck boat during duck hunting season;
(7) a rice boat during the harvest season;
(8) a seaplane; and
(9) a nonmotorized watercraft nine feet in length or less.
    Subd. 3. Temporary certificate. A person may operate a watercraft and allow another
person to operate a watercraft for which a temporary license certificate has been issued during the
period the certificate is valid.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 12

86B.305 YOUTH OPERATORS.
    Subdivision 1. Under age 12. (a) Except in case of an emergency, a person under age 12
may not operate or be allowed to operate a watercraft propelled by a motor with a factory rating
of more than 25 horsepower unless there is present in the watercraft, in addition to the operator,
at least one person age 21 or older who is within immediate reach of the controls of the motor.
For purposes of section 169A.20, the person age 21 or older, as well as the actual operator, is in
physical control of the motorboat.
(b) A person under age 12 may not operate or be allowed to operate a watercraft propelled
by a motor with a factory rating of more than 75 horsepower.
    Subd. 2. Age 12 to 17; permit required. Except as provided in this subdivision, a person
age 12 or older and younger than age 18 may not operate a motorboat powered by a motor over
25 horsepower without possessing a valid watercraft operator's permit from this state or from
the operator's state of residence unless there is a person age 21 or older in the motorboat who is
within immediate reach of the controls of the motor. For purposes of section 169A.20, the person
age 21 or older, as well as the actual operator, is in physical control of the motorboat.
    Subd. 3. Owners may not allow certain uses. An owner of a watercraft may not allow a
watercraft to be operated contrary to the provisions of subdivision 2.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 13; 1993 c 269 s 2,3; 1993 c 310 s 2,3; 1996 c 396 s 2,3;
1Sp1997 c 2 s 67; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7

86B.311 GENERAL RULES FOR OPERATION.
    Subdivision 1. Safe operation. A person may not operate or allow the operation of a
watercraft or use a device relating to the use of the watercraft:
(1) in a careless or heedless manner in disregard of the rights or safety of others;
(2) in a reckless or grossly negligent manner that causes personal injury to another or
damage to the property of another;
(3) upon the waters of this state without the equipment required by this chapter and the
rules adopted under this chapter; or
(4) that is loaded with passengers or cargo beyond the watercraft's safe carrying capacity or is
equipped with a motor or other propulsion machinery beyond the watercraft's safe power capacity.
    Subd. 2. Obstruction to navigation. A person may not operate a watercraft in a manner that
obstructs or tends to obstruct normal and ordinary navigation on the waters of this state.
    Subd. 3. Unauthorized mooring prohibited. A person may not moor, attach, or hold in any
manner a watercraft to a buoy or any other marking device or guide placed in the waters of this
state pursuant to lawful authority. This subdivision does not apply to a mooring buoy.
    Subd. 4. Swimming or bathing areas. A person may not operate a watercraft within a
water area that has been marked off or set aside as a swimming or bathing area as prescribed by
the commissioner's rules.
    Subd. 5. Riding on gunwales or decking. A person may not ride or sit and a person may not
operate a motorboat while a person is riding or sitting on (i) the starboard or port gunwales; (ii)
the decking over the bow, sides, or stern; or (iii) the transom, of a motorboat while underway
unless the motorboat is provided with adequate guards or railing to prevent passengers from
falling overboard.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 14; 2002 c 323 s 1

86B.313 PERSONAL WATERCRAFT REGULATIONS.
    Subdivision 1. General requirements. (a) In addition to requirements of other laws relating
to watercraft, a person may not operate or permit the operation of a personal watercraft:
(1) without each person on board the personal watercraft wearing a United States Coast
Guard approved Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation device;
(2) between one hour before sunset and 9:30 a.m.;
(3) at greater than slow-no wake speed within 150 feet of:
(i) a shoreline;
(ii) a dock;
(iii) a swimmer;
(iv) a raft used for swimming or diving; or
(v) a moored, anchored, or nonmotorized watercraft;
(4) while towing a person on water skis, a kneeboard, an inflatable craft, or any other
device unless:
(i) an observer is on board; or
(ii) the personal watercraft is equipped with factory-installed or factory-specified accessory
mirrors that give the operator a wide field of vision to the rear;
(5) without the lanyard-type engine cutoff switch being attached to the person, clothing,
or personal flotation device of the operator, if the personal watercraft is equipped by the
manufacturer with such a device;
(6) if any part of the spring-loaded throttle mechanism has been removed, altered, or
tampered with so as to interfere with the return-to-idle system;
(7) to chase or harass wildlife;
(8) through emergent or floating vegetation at other than a slow-no wake speed;
(9) in a manner that unreasonably or unnecessarily endangers life, limb, or property,
including weaving through congested watercraft traffic, jumping the wake of another watercraft
within 150 feet of the other watercraft, or operating the watercraft while facing backwards;
(10) in any other manner that is not reasonable and prudent; or
(11) without a personal watercraft rules decal, issued by the commissioner, attached to the
personal watercraft so as to be in full view of the operator.
(b) Paragraph (a), clause (3), does not apply to a person operating a personal watercraft to
launch or land a person on water skis, a kneeboard, or similar device by the most direct route
to open water.
    Subd. 2. Age of operator. Except in the case of an emergency, a person under the age of 13
years may not operate or be permitted to operate a personal watercraft, regardless of horsepower.
It is unlawful for the owner of a personal watercraft to permit the personal watercraft to be
operated contrary to this subdivision.
    Subd. 3. Operator's permit; adult supervision. Except in the case of an emergency, a
person 13 years of age or over but less than 18 years of age may not operate a personal watercraft,
regardless of horsepower, without possessing a valid watercraft operator's permit as required by
section 86B.305, unless there is a person 21 years of age or older on board the craft. In addition to
the permit requirement, a person 13 years of age operating a personal watercraft must remain
under visual supervision by a person who is 21 years of age or older. An owner of a personal
watercraft may not permit the personal watercraft to be operated contrary to this subdivision.
    Subd. 4. Dealers and rental operations. (a) A dealer of personal watercraft shall distribute a
summary of the laws and rules governing the operation of personal watercraft and, upon request,
shall provide instruction to a purchaser regarding:
(1) the laws and rules governing personal watercraft; and
(2) the safe operation of personal watercraft.
(b) A person who offers personal watercraft for rent:
(1) shall provide a summary of the laws and rules governing the operation of personal
watercraft and provide instruction regarding the laws and rules and the safe operation of personal
watercraft to each person renting a personal watercraft;
(2) shall provide a United States Coast Guard approved Type I, II, III, or V personal flotation
device and any other required safety equipment to all persons who rent a personal watercraft
at no additional cost; and
(3) shall require that a watercraft operator's permit from this state or from the operator's state
of residence be shown each time a personal watercraft is rented to any person younger than age 18
and shall record the permit on the form provided by the commissioner.
(c) Each dealer of personal watercraft or person offering personal watercraft for rent
shall have the person who purchases or rents a personal watercraft sign a form provided by
the commissioner acknowledging that the purchaser or renter has been provided a copy of the
laws and rules regarding personal watercraft operation and has read them. The form must be
retained by the dealer or person offering personal watercraft for rent for a period of six months
following the date of signature and must be made available for inspection by sheriff's deputies or
conservation officers during normal business hours.
History: 1991 c 225 s 3; 1992 c 573 s 4; 1993 c 219 s 1; 1996 c 396 s 4; 1998 c 400 s 2-4

86B.315 TOWING PERSON ON WATER SKIS OR OTHER DEVICE.
    Subdivision 1. Observer or mirror required. A person may not operate a watercraft on
waters of this state and tow a person on water skis, an aquaplane, a surfboard, a saucer, or a
similar device unless:
(1) there is another person in the watercraft in addition to the operator who is in a position to
continually observe the person being towed; or
(2) the boat is equipped with a mirror providing the operator a wide field of vision to the rear.
    Subd. 2. Night skiing or towing prohibited. A person may not be towed or operate a
watercraft towing a person on water skis, an aquaplane, a surfboard, a saucer, or another device
on waters of this state from one hour after sunset to sunrise of the following day.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 15

86B.321 NOISE LIMITS.
    Subdivision 1. Operation in excess of noise limits prohibited. A person may not operate a
motorboat under any condition of load, acceleration, or deceleration in a manner that exceeds
the noise limits contained in subdivision 2.
    Subd. 2. Noise limits. (a) The noise limits for the total noise from the marine engine or
motorboat may not exceed:
(1) for marine engines or motorboats manufactured before January 1, 1982, a noise level of
84 decibels on the A scale measured at a distance of 50 feet from the motorboat or equivalent
noise levels at other distances as specified by the commissioner in a pass-by test or 86 decibels
on the A scale measured at idle in a stationary test at least four feet above the water and at least
four feet behind the transom of the motorboat being tested; and
(2) for marine engines or motorboats manufactured on or after January 1, 1982, a noise level
of 82 decibels on the A scale measured at a distance of 50 feet from the motorboat or equivalent
noise levels at other distances as specified by the commissioner in a pass-by test or 84 decibels on
the A scale measured at idle in a stationary test at least four feet above the water and at least four
feet behind the transom of the motorboat being tested.
(b) The noise limits in paragraph (a) do not preclude enforcement of other laws relating to
motorboat noise. The officer or deputy doing the testing shall determine which test or tests shall
be used. Failure to pass either the pass-by or stationary idle test is a violation of this section.
(c) Equivalent noise levels under paragraph (a) shall be specified by the commissioner by
written order and published in the State Register. The noise level determinations are exempt from
the rulemaking provisions of chapter 14 and section 14.386 does not apply.
    Subd. 3. Applicability. The provisions of this section do not apply to motorboats operating
under a permit issued under section 86B.121 or a United States Coast Guard marine event permit
in a regatta or race while on trial runs or while on official trials for speed records during the time
and in the designated area authorized by the permit.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 16; 1993 c 13 art 1 s 22; 2004 c 221 s 25; 2004 c 255 s 24

86B.325 DISCHARGE FROM MARINE TOILETS PROHIBITED.
(a) A person owning or operating a watercraft or other marine conveyance on the waters of
this state may not use, operate, or allow the use or operation of a marine toilet or similar device
for the disposition of sewage or other wastes unless the toilet wastes are retained for disposition
on land by means of facilities constructed and operated in accordance with rules adopted by the
state commissioner of health and approved by the Pollution Control Agency.
(b) A person may not:
(1) discharge sewage or other wastes into the waters of this state directly or indirectly from
a watercraft or other marine conveyance; or
(2) place, leave, discharge, or cause to be placed, left, or discharged a container of sewage or
other wastes into waters of this state by a person whether or not the owner, operator, guest, or
occupant of a watercraft or other marine conveyance.
(c) Toilets must be sealed or otherwise rendered inoperative so that human or other waste
cannot be discharged from the toilet into waters of this state.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 17

86B.331 OPERATION WHILE USING ALCOHOL OR DRUGS OR WITH A PHYSICAL
OR MENTAL DISABILITY.
    Subdivision 1. Acts prohibited. (a) An owner or other person having charge or control of a
motorboat may not authorize or allow an individual the person knows or has reason to believe
is under the influence of alcohol or a controlled or other substance to operate the motorboat in
operation on the waters of this state.
(b) An owner or other person having charge or control of a motorboat may not knowingly
authorize or allow a person, who by reason of a physical or mental disability is incapable of
operating the motorboat, to operate the motorboat in operation on the waters of this state.
(c) A person who operates or is in physical control of a motorboat on the waters of this
state is subject to chapter 169A. In addition to the applicable sanctions under chapter 169A, a
person who is convicted of violating section 169A.20 or an ordinance in conformity with it while
operating a motorboat, shall be prohibited from operating the motorboat on the waters of this state
for a period of 90 days between May 1 and October 31, extending over two consecutive years if
necessary. If the person operating the motorboat refuses to comply with a lawful demand to submit
to testing under sections 169A.50 to 169A.53 or an ordinance in conformity with it, the person
shall be prohibited from operating the motorboat for a period of one year. The commissioner shall
notify the person of the period during which the person is prohibited from operating a motorboat.
(d) Administrative and judicial review of the operating privileges prohibition is governed
by section 97B.066, subdivisions 7 to 9, if the person does not have a prior impaired driving
conviction or prior license revocation, as defined in section 169A.03. Otherwise, administrative
and judicial review of the prohibition is governed by section 169A.53.
(e) The court shall promptly forward to the commissioner and the Department of Public
Safety copies of all convictions and criminal and civil sanctions imposed under this section and
chapters 169 and 169A relating to motorboats.
(f) A person who violates paragraph (a) or (b), or an ordinance in conformity with either of
them, is guilty of a misdemeanor.
(g) For purposes of this subdivision, a motorboat "in operation" does not include a motorboat
that is anchored, beached, or securely fastened to a dock or other permanent mooring, or a
motorboat that is being rowed or propelled by other than mechanical means.
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 3.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 5.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 5a.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 6.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 7.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 8.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 18; 1992 c 570 art 3 s 1; 1994 c 615 s 5,6; 1995 c 230 s 6;
1Sp1997 c 2 s 5; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 2000 c 495 s 7; 2001 c 7 s 23

86B.335 TESTING FOR ALCOHOL AND CONTROLLED SUBSTANCES.
    Subdivision 1.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 2.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 3.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 4.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 5.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 6.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 7.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 8.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 9.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 10.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 11.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 12.[Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]
    Subd. 13. Coroner to report death. Every coroner or medical examiner shall report in
writing to the Department of Natural Resources the death of any person within the jurisdiction
of the coroner or medical examiner as the result of an accident involving any watercraft or
drowning and the circumstances of the accident. The report shall be made within 15 days after
the death or recovery.
In the case of operators killed in watercraft accidents, or the death of passengers or drowning
victims 14 years of age or older, who die within four hours after accident, the coroner or
medical examiner shall examine the body and shall make tests as are necessary to determine
the presence and percentage concentration of alcohol, and drugs if feasible, in the blood of the
victim. This information shall be included in each report submitted pursuant to the provisions of
this subdivision and shall be tabulated by the Department of Natural Resources. Periodically, the
commissioner of natural resources must transmit a summary of the reports to the commissioner
of public safety.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 19; 1992 c 570 art 3 s 2-6; 1994 c 615 s 7; 1995 c 185 s 2

86B.337 [Repealed, 1Sp1997 c 2 s 69]

86B.341 DUTIES AND LIABILITIES AT ACCIDENT OR INCIDENT.
    Subdivision 1. Operator's duty at accident or incident. (a) The operator of a watercraft
involved in an accident or incident resulting in injury or death to a person or in damage to property
shall, if possible without serious danger to the watercraft or the persons aboard, immediately stop
at the scene of the accident or incident and render assistance as may be practicable and necessary.
(b) The operator must give the operator's name, address, and license number of the watercraft
and the name and address of the owner of the watercraft to the person injured or the operator or
occupants of the other watercraft or owner or occupant of the property involved. The operator must
promptly report the accident or incident to the sheriff of the county where the accident or incident
occurred. Sheriffs are required to report all accidents and incidents to the commissioner of natural
resources, who must periodically transmit a summary of the reports to the commissioner of public
safety, and transmit statistics on boating accidents and incidents to the United States Coast Guard.
    Subd. 2. Owner's and operator's liability. (a) The owner and operator of a watercraft are
jointly and severally liable for any injury or damage caused by the negligent operation of a
watercraft whether the negligence consists of a violation of the provisions of the statutes of this
state or neglecting to observe ordinary care in the operation as the common law requires. The
owner is not liable if the watercraft is being operated without the owner's express or implied
consent. It is presumed that the operation of a watercraft is with the knowledge and consent of the
owner if at the time of the injury or damage the watercraft is under the control of the owner's
spouse, father, mother, brother, sister, son, daughter, or other member of the owner's immediate
family.
(b) This subdivision may not be construed to:
(1) relieve other persons from liability which the persons would otherwise have; or
(2) authorize or allow recovery in excess of the injury or damage actually incurred.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 20; 1994 c 615 s 8

LICENSES

86B.401 WATERCRAFT LICENSES.
    Subdivision 1. Application. (a) A person may apply to the commissioner, the commissioner
of public safety, or an authorized deputy registrar of motor vehicles to license a watercraft in a
format prescribed by the commissioner.
(b) The application must state the names and addresses of all owners of the watercraft.
    Subd. 2. Temporary certificate. A person who applies for a watercraft license may be
issued a temporary license certificate to operate the watercraft. The temporary license certificate
is valid for the period of time specified by the commissioner.
    Subd. 3. Licensing. The license agent shall register the watercraft on receiving an application
and the license fee. A license and registration sticker with a registration number shall be issued
and must be affixed to the watercraft as prescribed by the commissioner of natural resources. The
license is not valid unless signed by at least one owner.
    Subd. 4. License number. Each watercraft must be assigned a license number. The license
number assigned a watercraft may remain the same even if not renewed in consecutive years. The
owner of a watercraft must purchase the watercraft license numbers assigned and affix the license
numbers as prescribed by the commissioner.
    Subd. 5. License period. A watercraft license is valid for three calendar years or a portion of
the three-year period beginning in the calendar year the license is issued. The watercraft license
expires on December 31 of the last calendar year of the license period.
    Subd. 6. Renewal. Watercraft licenses may be renewed in the same manner as applying for
the original license.
    Subd. 7. Notification of change of address by licensee. If the address of an owner of a
licensed watercraft changes so that it does not conform with the address on the watercraft license,
the owner must notify the commissioner in writing by 30 days after the address change occurs
on a form prescribed by the commissioner.
    Subd. 8. Notice of ownership change, destruction, or abandonment of watercraft. (a)
An owner of a watercraft must provide written notice to the commissioner on a form prescribed
by the commissioner by 15 days after abandonment, destruction, or a change in ownership of a
licensed watercraft.
(b) A change in ownership does not include the transfer of a security interest.
(c) After a change of ownership:
(1) the new owners are subject to the penalties imposed by this chapter if they fail to give
notice as required by this subdivision; and
(2) the commissioner shall terminate the license without further action for failure to give the
notice of ownership change.
(d) A notice of ownership change must be accompanied by the duplicate license fee. The
commissioner shall issue a duplicate license on receipt of the notice of ownership change and the
duplicate license fee.
    Subd. 9. Loss or destruction of license. The commissioner shall issue a duplicate watercraft
license if an owner provides to the commissioner an affidavit of loss or destruction of the
watercraft license previously issued and pays the duplicate license fee.
    Subd. 10. New license for previously licensed watercraft. A new license may not be issued
for a watercraft that has previously been issued a watercraft license by this state unless:
(1) a notice of abandonment of the watercraft has been given at least one year before the
date of application for the license; or
(2) the application is accompanied by satisfactory proof that the watercraft has been
continually outside this state at least one year before the date of the application.
    Subd. 11.[Repealed, 1996 c 385 art 2 s 8]
    Subd. 12. Proof of sales tax payment. A person applying for initial licensing of a watercraft
must provide a watercraft purchaser's certificate, showing a complete description of the watercraft,
the seller's name and address, the full purchase price of the watercraft, and the trade-in allowance,
if any. The certificate must include information showing either (1) that the sales and use tax
under chapter 297A was paid or (2) the purchase was exempt from tax under chapter 297A. The
commissioner of public safety, in consultation with the commissioner and the commissioner of
revenue, shall prescribe the form of the certificate.
The certificate is not required if the applicant provides a receipt, invoice, or other document
that shows the watercraft was purchased from a retailer maintaining a place of business in this
state as defined in section 297A.66, subdivision 1.
    Subd. 13. Collector watercraft. (a) The owner of a watercraft built before July 1, 1959, that
is used solely as a collector's item may affix any license numbers and decals that are required for
the watercraft by section 86B.301, subdivision 1, and rules adopted pursuant to that section so
that the numbers and decals are readily detachable.
(b) The authority issuing a permit under section 86B.121 for any exhibit, regatta, or boat
parade held on the waters of this state may exempt a collector watercraft from displaying the
license numbers and decals required by section 86B.301, subdivision 1, during the duration of the
event. The authority may also exempt the collector watercraft from any equipment and operational
requirements and any license requirements in section 86B.301 for the duration of the event.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 21; 1990 c 559 s 2; 1991 c 291 art 8 s 2; 1992 c 594 s 9; 1993
c 375 art 1 s 2; 1994 c 623 art 1 s 19; 1Sp1995 c 1 s 14; 1999 c 22 s 1; 2000 c 418 art 1 s
44; 2001 c 185 s 16-18; 2003 c 28 art 1 s 12

86B.405 DEALER'S LICENSE.
    Subdivision 1. Application. A dealer may apply for a watercraft dealer license on a form
prescribed by the commissioner. A watercraft dealer's license shall be issued to a dealer after
receipt of an application and payment of the dealer license fee.
    Subd. 2. Watercraft covered. Watercraft owned by the dealer may be operated under the
dealer's license on the waters of this state without watercraft licenses for demonstration purposes
or other purposes incident to the usual and customary conduct of the business of manufacturing,
selling, or trading of watercraft.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 22

86B.411 GOVERNMENT WATERCRAFT LICENSES.
The commissioner shall issue distinguishable government watercraft licenses without a fee
for watercraft owned by the state or a political subdivision of the state on receipt of an application
for the license on a form prescribed by the commissioner.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 23

86B.415 LICENSE FEES.
    Subdivision 1. Watercraft 19 feet or less. The fee for a watercraft license for watercraft 19
feet or less in length is $27 except:
(1) for watercraft, other than personal watercraft, 19 feet in length or less that is offered for
rent or lease, the fee is $9;
(2) for a canoe, kayak, sailboat, sailboard, paddle boat, or rowing shell 19 feet in length
or less, the fee is $10.50;
(3) for a watercraft 19 feet in length or less used by a nonprofit corporation for teaching boat
and water safety, the fee is as provided in subdivision 4;
(4) for a watercraft owned by a dealer under a dealer's license, the fee is as provided in
subdivision 5;
(5) for a personal watercraft, the fee is $37.50; and
(6) for a watercraft less than 17 feet in length, other than a watercraft listed in clauses (1)
to (5), the fee is $18.
    Subd. 2. Watercraft over 19 feet. Except as provided in subdivisions 3, 4, and 5, the
watercraft license fee:
(1) for a watercraft more than 19 feet but less than 26 feet in length is $45;
(2) for a watercraft 26 feet but less than 40 feet in length is $67.50; and
(3) for a watercraft 40 feet in length or longer is $90.
    Subd. 3. Watercraft over 19 feet for hire. The license fee for a watercraft more than 19 feet
in length for hire with an operator is $75 each.
    Subd. 4. Watercraft used by nonprofit corporation for teaching. The watercraft license fee
for a watercraft used by a nonprofit organization for teaching boat and water safety is $4.50 each.
    Subd. 5. Dealer's license. There is no separate fee for watercraft owned by a dealer under a
dealer's license. The fee for a dealer's license is $67.50.
    Subd. 6. Transfer or duplicate license. The fee to transfer a watercraft license or be issued a
duplicate license is $4.50.
    Subd. 7. Watercraft surcharge. A $5 surcharge is placed on each watercraft licensed under
subdivisions 1 to 5 for control, public awareness, law enforcement, monitoring, and research of
aquatic invasive species such as zebra mussel, purple loosestrife, and Eurasian water milfoil in
public waters and public wetlands.
    Subd. 7a.[Repealed, 1999 c 231 s 207]
    Subd. 8. Registrar's fee. In addition to other fees prescribed by law, a filing fee of $4.50
shall be charged for each watercraft license renewal, duplicate or replacement license, and
replacement decal and a filing fee of $7 shall be charged for each watercraft license and license
transfer issued by:
(1) the registrar or a deputy registrar of motor vehicles and the additional fee shall be
disposed of in the manner provided in section 168.33, subdivision 2; or
(2) the commissioner and the additional fee shall be deposited in the state treasury and
credited to the water recreation account.
    Subd. 9. Disposition of receipts. Money received for watercraft licenses shall be deposited
in the state treasury and credited to the water recreation account.
    Subd. 10. Accounting. The commissioner of natural resources, in agreement with the
commissioner of public safety, may prescribe the accounting and procedural requirements
necessary to assure efficient handling of watercraft registrations and license fees by deputy
registrars. Deputy registrars shall strictly comply with these accounting and procedural
requirements.
    Subd. 11. Refunds. The commissioner may issue a refund on a license or title, not including
any issuing fees paid under subdivision 8 or section 84.027, subdivision 15, paragraph (a), clause
(3), or 86B.870, subdivision 1, paragraph (b), if the refund request is received within 12 months
of the original license or title and:
(1) the watercraft was licensed or titled incorrectly by the commissioner or the deputy
registrar;
(2) the customer was incorrectly charged a title fee; or
(3) the watercraft was licensed or titled twice, once by the dealer and once by the customer.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 24; 1991 c 199 art 1 s 12; 1991 c 254 art 2 s 19; 1992 c 594 s
10; 1993 c 235 s 3; 1995 c 220 s 73,74; 1998 c 401 s 28,29; 1999 c 231 s 112; 2003 c 128 art 1 s
47; 2004 c 243 s 37; 1Sp2005 c 1 art 2 s 58-64

86B.421 LICENSING BY POLITICAL SUBDIVISIONS.
A political subdivision may not require watercraft to be licensed.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 25

WATERCRAFT EQUIPMENT

86B.501 PERSONAL FLOTATION AND LIFESAVING DEVICES.
    Subdivision 1. Personal flotation or lifesaving devices. (a) Watercraft and duck boats
using the waters of this state must be equipped with the number and type of personal flotation or
lifesaving devices prescribed by the commissioner.
(b) The commissioner may not:
(1) require sailboards to be equipped with personal flotation or lifesaving devices; or
(2) require persons on sailboards to wear personal flotation or lifesaving devices or have
them readily available.
    Subd. 2. Rented watercraft responsibility for lifesaving devices. The owner of a business
that rents, leases, or hires out watercraft must provide a personal flotation or lifesaving device of
the type required by this section for each person on board the watercraft.
    Subd. 3. Grant Allen Law; life jacket required for children. (a) No person may operate a
watercraft under way with a child under ten years of age aboard unless the child is:
(1) wearing an appropriate personal flotation device approved under subdivision 1; or
(2) below the top deck or in an enclosed cabin.
(b) Paragraph (a) does not apply to commercial watercraft where the child is a passenger
and the operator is licensed by the state of Minnesota or the United States Coast Guard to carry
passengers for hire. Paragraph (a) also does not apply if the watercraft is anchored for the purpose
of swimming or diving.
(c) A first violation of this subdivision prior to May 1, 2006, shall not result in a penalty,
but is punishable only by a safety warning.
(d) Any violation other than a violation addressed in paragraph (c) is to be considered a
petty misdemeanor.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 26; 2005 c 31 s 1

86B.505 WATERCRAFT CAPACITY PLATES.
    Subdivision 1. Requirement. (a) A watercraft 20 feet or less in length manufactured for sale
in this state after December 31, 1980, except canoes, kayaks, sailboats, sailboards, and inflatable
boats, must have a capacity plate permanently affixed to the watercraft by the manufacturer. The
capacity plate must contain information relating to maximum safe carrying and power capacity
specifications prescribed by the commissioner. The information contained on the capacity plate
must, at a minimum, comply with the established standards and regulations of the United States
Coast Guard.
(b) For purposes of this section, "manufacture" means to construct or assemble a watercraft
or alter a watercraft in a manner that changes its weight and carrying capacity.
    Subd. 2. Certification of correct information. The information appearing on a capacity
plate is deemed to certify that the manufacturer has correctly and faithfully specified the
maximum safe carrying and horsepower capacity and that the information is not a deliberate or
negligent misrepresentation.
    Subd. 3. Violation. A person who does not comply with provisions of this section commits a
violation for each watercraft for which this section is not complied with.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 27

86B.511 LIGHTS.
Except as provided in section 169.541, a watercraft using the waters of this state, when
underway or in use between sunset and sunrise, must carry and display the lights prescribed by
the commissioner for the watercraft.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 28; 1990 c 555 s 11

86B.515 SIRENS AND SOUND-PRODUCING DEVICES.
    Subdivision 1. Sound-producing devices. Motorboats 16 feet or more in overall length using
the waters of this state must carry sound-producing devices as prescribed by the commissioner.
The operator of a motorboat shall sound these devices only when reasonably necessary to insure
safe operation.
    Subd. 2. Sirens. (a) A siren may not be carried or used on a watercraft other than patrol
watercraft.
(b) A siren carried or used in violation of this subdivision may be removed and seized by the
sheriff. A seized siren becomes the property of the county where it was seized and may be used or
disposed of as the county board determines.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 29

86B.521 MOTORBOAT NOISE CONTROL.
    Subdivision 1. Exhaust muffling system required. A motor may not be used on a motorboat
unless it is equipped with an efficient muffler, underwater exhaust, or other device that adequately
muffles or suppresses the sound of the exhaust of the motor so as to prevent excessive or unusual
noise. A motor may not be equipped with an altered muffler, muffler cutout, muffler bypass, or
any other device designed or installed so that it can be used to continually or intermittently
bypass any muffler or muffler system installed in the motorboat or to reduce or eliminate the
effectiveness of such a muffler or muffler system.
    Subd. 2. Sale of motor that exceeds noise limits prohibited. A person may not sell or offer
for sale a marine engine or motorboat that would exceed the noise limits contained in section
86B.321, subdivision 2, under a test procedure approved by the commissioner if the motor is
maintained according to the manufacturer's specifications.
    Subd. 3. Modification of engine to exceed noise limits prohibited. (a) A person may
not modify a marine engine or motorboat in a manner that will amplify or increase the noise
emitted by the marine engine or motorboat above the noise limits contained in section 86B.321,
subdivision 2 , under a test procedure approved by the commissioner.
(b) A person may not operate a motorboat with an engine modified to increase noise above
the noise limits.
    Subd. 4. Sale of parts that cause excessive noise prohibited. (a) A person may not sell
or offer for sale replacement or additional parts for a marine engine or motorboat which when
installed in the marine engine or motorboat will amplify or increase the noise emitted by the
marine engine or motorboat above the noise limits contained in section 86B.321, subdivision 2,
under a test procedure approved by the commissioner.
(b) A person may not operate a motorboat incorporating parts prohibited to be sold under
paragraph (a).
    Subd. 5. Applicability. The provisions of this section do not apply to motorboats operating
under a permit issued under section 86B.121 or a United States Coast Guard marine event permit
in a regatta, or race, while on trial runs, or while on official trials for speed records during the time
and in the designated area authorized by the permit.
    Subd. 6. Rulemaking exemption. The test procedures under subdivisions 2, 3, and 4
shall be established by written order by the commissioner and published in the State Register.
The establishment of test procedures is exempt from the rulemaking provisions of chapter 14
and section 14.386 does not apply.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 30; 2004 c 221 s 26; 2004 c 255 s 25,26

86B.525 DEVICE FOR ARRESTING BACKFIRE.
A motor other than a detachable outboard motor may not be used on a watercraft unless each
carburetor is fitted with a device for arresting or safely deflecting backfire which is approved or
prescribed by the United States Coast Guard. The devices must be maintained in serviceable
condition.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 31

86B.531 FIRE EXTINGUISHERS AND FUEL AREA VENTILATION.
    Subdivision 1. Fire extinguishers. Inboard motorboats, houseboats, and other motorboats
carrying or using fuel or other inflammable or toxic fluid in an enclosure of the boat must
be provided with the number, size, and type of fire extinguishers as may be approved by the
commissioner. Fire extinguishers approved by the commissioner shall comply with requirements
of the United States Coast Guard. The extinguishers shall be at all times kept in condition for
immediate and effective use and shall be so placed as to be readily accessible.
    Subd. 2. Fuel area ventilation. Inboard motorboats, houseboats, and other motorboats
carrying or using fuel or other inflammable or toxic fluid in an enclosure of the boat must be
provided with means for properly and efficiently ventilating the bilges of the engine and fuel tank
compartments as prescribed by the commissioner to remove explosive or flammable gases.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 32

86B.535 MARINE TOILETS.
    Subdivision 1. Retention device required. A watercraft or other marine conveyance on the
waters of the state may not be equipped with a marine toilet unless also equipped with a retention
device acceptable to the Pollution Control Agency.
    Subd. 2. List of retention devices. (a) The Pollution Control Agency shall, upon request,
furnish a list of the types of retention devices currently available and considered acceptable for
the purposes of this section for use with marine toilets.
(b) The commissioner of natural resources shall furnish the sheriff of each county with a list
of retention facilities acceptable to the Pollution Control Agency.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 33

SCUBA DIVING

86B.601 SCUBA DIVING.
    Subdivision 1. Flag required. (a) A person who swims in waters of the state, except
designated swimming areas under section 86B.311, subdivision 4, while wearing or carrying a
breathing apparatus allowing the swimmer to breathe while under water, except a snorkel that
is not attached to an artificial container of compressed air, must display a diver's flag above the
surface of the water.
(b) A person who places a diver's flag must remain within 50 feet of the flag, measured
on the surface of the water.
(c) A person shall not place a diver's flag where it will obstruct navigation.
(d) A diver's flag shall measure at least 15 inches horizontally and 12 inches vertically, and
both sides shall have a red-colored background bisected diagonally by a three-inch wide white
stripe having its upper end adjacent to the flagstaff.
(e) A diver's flag shall be displayed in a vertical plane extended from a rigid flagstaff
equipped to maintain the upper edge of the flag at least 30 inches above the water surface.
(f) A diver's flag may be reflectorized or fluorescent provided the entire surface is uniformly
reflectorized or fluorescent.
(g) A diver's flag may be anchored or secured to the bottom when a safety hazard would
result from towing the flag.
(h) If at the discretion of the diver it would be safer and more visible, the flag may be
displayed on a watercraft. If the flag is displayed on the watercraft, the craft must be at anchor or,
if not at anchor, attended by a diver or a person appointed by the diver to tend the craft. Only
watercraft displaying an official diver's flag are authorized in the diving area.
    Subd. 2. Group diving. (a) Not more than four divers may dive under one flag.
(b) If a group of divers is operating in a contained area, the perimeter must be marked and be
outside of the normal area of navigation. The markings shall consist of the official diver's flag and
be placed on the perimeter of the diving area at intervals not exceeding 150 feet.
    Subd. 3. Light required for night diving. A person may not scuba or skin dive in waters
of this state from one hour after sunset to sunrise on the following day unless the diver has
in possession a diver's light that is visible from above the water at a distance of at least 150
feet, except that a diver's light is not required in an emergency, salvage, repair, or construction
operation.
    Subd. 4. Night diving with spear prohibited. A person may not scuba or skin dive while in
possession of a spear from sunset to sunrise.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 34; 1992 c 464 art 1 s 12

WATER SAFETY FUNDING

86B.701 FUNDING COUNTY WATER SAFETY.
    Subdivision 1. Water and watercraft safety and enforcement budget. (a) On or before
September 1 of each even-numbered year, the county board of each county shall submit to the
commissioner its proposed budget to carry out the provisions of this chapter, during the biennium
beginning on the following July 1.
(b) The commissioner shall require a county to submit a budget containing proposed
activities that would adequately carry out this chapter.
(c) The commissioner shall review the proposed budgets and incorporate into the budget for
the Department of Natural Resources the parts that the commissioner determines necessary and
equitable for each county. The amount allocated for each county shall be paid to the county and
a separate accounting maintained.
(d) The commissioner may require each county to make reports as to the expenditure of
the funds.
(e) The commissioner shall publish a report annually showing the expenditures and distribute
copies to all participating counties.
    Subd. 2. Failure of county to submit budget. (a) If the county fails to submit a budget
or fails to carry out the proposed activities after submitting a budget, the commissioner may
allocate all or a portion of the county's share back to the Department of Natural Resources or to
political subdivisions within the county, including lake conservation districts in part or in whole
within the county, that the commissioner determines will provide watercraft safety enforcement,
supervision, marking, regulation, search and rescue, and information on waters wholly or partially
within their boundaries.
(b) The commissioner may require budgets or reports on the expenditure of the funds.
(c) If the county sheriff determines that additional outside assistance is necessary on a
temporary, nonrecurring basis for the purposes of boat and water safety, the sheriff may request
the assistance from the commissioner. The commissioner may allocate emergency funding to the
county, provide materials or equipment on a temporary loan basis, or hire temporary personnel.
    Subd. 3. Allocation of funding. (a) The amount of funds to be allocated under subdivisions
1 and 2 and shall be determined by the commissioner on the basis of the following criteria:
(1) the number of watercraft using the waters wholly or partially within the county;
(2) the number of watercraft using particular bodies of water, wholly or partially within the
county, in relation to the size of the body of water and the type, speed, and size of the watercraft
utilizing the water body;
(3) the amount of water acreage wholly or partially within the county;
(4) the overall performance of the county in the area of boat and water safety;
(5) special considerations, such as volume of transient or nonresident watercraft use, number
of rental watercraft, extremely large bodies of water wholly or partially in the county; or
(6) any other factor as determined by the commissioner.
(b) The commissioner may require reports from the counties, make appropriate surveys or
studies, or utilize local surveys or studies to determine the criteria required in allocation funds.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 35

86B.705 ALLOCATION OF WATER RECREATION ACCOUNT AND FINES AND
FORFEITED BAIL MONEY.
    Subdivision 1. Water recreation account. (a) A portion of the money in the water recreation
account shall be utilized by the commissioner of natural resources to implement this chapter and
a portion shall be paid to counties and in an amount the commissioner shall determine and be
used to defray the expenses of enforcement of the provisions of this chapter and the expenses of a
county sponsored or administered watercraft and swimming safety instructional program.
(b) The commissioner may withhold up to $25,000 per biennium of the allocation for the
purpose of payments to counties and other political subdivisions for specific boat and water safety
projects beyond the capability of previously allocated funds.
(c) Counties and other political subdivisions shall make application for payment of the funds
on forms and for purposes as prescribed by the commissioner.
    Subd. 2. Fines and bail money. (a) All fines, installment payments, and forfeited bail money
collected from persons convicted of violations of this chapter or rules adopted thereunder, or of a
violation of section 169A.20 involving a motorboat, shall be paid to the county treasurer of the
county where the violation occurred by the court administrator or other person collecting the
money within 15 days after the last day of the month the money was collected.
(b) One-half of the receipts shall be credited to the general revenue fund of the county. The
other one-half of the receipts shall be transmitted by the county treasurer to the commissioner
of natural resources to be deposited in the state treasury and credited to the water recreation
account for the purpose of boat and water safety.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 36; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 6; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7; 2001 c 185 s 19

86B.706 WATER RECREATION ACCOUNT; RECEIPTS AND PURPOSE.
    Subdivision 1. Creation. The water recreation account is created in the state treasury in
the natural resources fund.
    Subd. 2. Money deposited in account. The following shall be deposited in the state treasury
and credited to the water recreation account:
(1) fees and surcharges from titling and licensing of watercraft under this chapter;
(2) fines, installment payments, and forfeited bail according to section 86B.705, subdivision
2 ;
(3) civil penalties according to section 84D.13;
(4) mooring fees and receipts from the sale of marine gas at state-operated or state-assisted
small craft harbors and mooring facilities according to section 86A.21;
(5) the unrefunded gasoline tax attributable to watercraft use under section 296A.18; and
(6) fees for permits issued to control or harvest aquatic plants other than wild rice under
section 103G.615, subdivision 2.
    Subd. 3. Purposes. The money in the account may be expended only as appropriated by law
for the following purposes:
(1) as directed under section 296A.18, subdivision 2, for acquisition, development,
maintenance, and rehabilitation of public water access and boating facilities on public waters;
lake and river improvements; and boat and water safety;
(2) from the fees collected at state-operated or state-assisted small craft harbors and mooring
facilities from daily and seasonal moorings and the sale of marine gas, for maintenance, operation,
replacement, and expansion of these facilities and for the debt service on state bonds sold to
finance these facilities;
(3) for administration and enforcement of this chapter as it pertains to titling and licensing of
watercraft and use and safe operation of watercraft; grants for county-sponsored and administered
boat and water safety programs; and state boat and water safety efforts;
(4) for management of aquatic invasive species and the implementation of chapter 84D as
it pertains to aquatic invasive species, including control, public awareness, law enforcement,
assessment and monitoring, management planning, and research; and
(5) for management of aquatic plants and the implementation of section 103G.615 as it
pertains to aquatic plants, including plant removal permitting, control, public awareness, law
enforcement, assessment and monitoring, management planning, and research.
History: 1Sp2005 c 1 art 2 s 65

ENFORCEMENT

86B.801 ENFORCEMENT AUTHORITY.
    Subdivision 1. Authority. (a) A sheriff or conservation officer may stop, inspect, and detain
for a reasonable time a watercraft observed in violation of Minnesota Statutes or rules, and is
empowered to issue a summons and complaint for violations of this chapter in the same manner
as for violations of game and fish laws.
(b) As used in this subdivision, "inspect" does not mean the authority to board a watercraft.
    Subd. 2. Enforcement duties. The sheriff of each county and conservation officers shall
enforce the provisions of this chapter.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 37

86B.805 ENFORCEMENT WATERCRAFT.
    Subdivision 1. Water safety enforcement watercraft. Watercraft used primarily for
enforcement shall be marked to be visible from both sides of the watercraft. The markings shall
at a minimum identify the operating agency and be of a contrasting color to the background.
Lettering used for identification, other than that used in an agency symbol, shall be of block
character and not less than three inches in height.
    Subd. 2. Game and fish enforcement watercraft. Watercraft that are used primarily for
enforcement of game and fish laws, when coincidentally enforcing this section, shall either be
marked through the flying of a pennant of a size and marking prescribed by the commissioner
or through marking of the watercraft itself under this section.
    Subd. 3. Exemptions for enforcement watercraft. The restrictions on hours and location of
operation in this chapter do not apply to emergency, safety, and enforcement watercraft.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 38; 1998 c 400 s 5

86B.811 CRIMINAL PENALTIES.
    Subdivision 1. Misdemeanors. Unless a different penalty is specified, a person is guilty of
a misdemeanor who:
(1) violates a provision of this chapter or a rule of the commissioner adopted under this
chapter;
(2) operates any watercraft that does not conform to the requirements of this chapter; or
(3) operates a watercraft if the operation is prohibited under subdivision 2.
    Subd. 2. Youth operator violations. (a) An operator age 13 or older but younger than age 18
adjudicated by a juvenile court as having violated section 86B.311, subdivision 1, 86B.341, or
169A.20, shall have the operator's permit revoked by the commissioner.
(b) The commissioner shall issue a new permit to the operator one year after the revocation
upon successful completion by the operator of a watercraft safety course.
(c) The judge of a juvenile court that adjudicates an operator of violating any of the laws or
rules listed above shall require the surrender of the person's watercraft operator's permit and shall
forward the operator's permit to the commissioner with a record of the adjudication.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 39; 1Sp1997 c 2 s 67; 2000 c 478 art 2 s 7

86B.815 VIOLATION AS EVIDENCE IN CIVIL ACTION.
    Subdivision 1. Prima facie evidence of negligence. In all civil actions, a violation of this
chapter by a party is not negligence per se but is prima facie evidence of negligence.
    Subd. 2. Conviction record not admissible. The record of the conviction of a person for a
violation of this chapter is not admissible as evidence in a court in a civil action.
History: 1990 c 391 art 9 s 40

WATERCRAFT TITLING

86B.820 DEFINITIONS.
    Subdivision 1. Applicability. The definitions in this section apply to sections 86B.820 to
86B.920.
    Subd. 2. Commissioner. "Commissioner" means the commissioner of natural resources.
    Subd. 3. Dealer. "Dealer" means a person who: (1) is in the business of manufacturing,
distributing, selling, or purchasing new or used watercraft; (2) has an established place of
business for the sale, trade, and display of watercraft; and (3) possesses watercraft for the purpose
of sale or trade.
    Subd. 4. Department. "Department" means the Department of Natural Resources.
    Subd. 5. Deputy registrar. "Deputy registrar" means a person appointed or hired by the
commissioner of public safety under section 168.33.
    Subd. 6. Manufacturer. "Manufacturer" means a person engaged in the business of
constructing or assembling watercraft required to have a certificate of title.
    Subd. 7. Manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin. "Manufacturer's or importer's
certificate of origin" means a certificate with the authorized signature of the manufacturer or
importer of a watercraft, describing and identifying the watercraft, giving the name and address of
the person to whom the watercraft is first sold by the manufacturer or importer, and containing
executed assignments of the watercraft to an applicant for a certificate of title on the watercraft in
this state.
    Subd. 8. Owner. "Owner" means a person, other than a secured party, having the title to a
watercraft. "Owner" includes a person entitled to use or possess the watercraft, subject to a security
interest in another person, reserved or created by agreement and securing payment of performance
of an obligation, but "owner" does not include a lessee under a lease not intended as security.
    Subd. 9. Person. "Person" means an individual, firm, partnership, association, corporation,
or governmental organization.
    Subd. 10. Secured party. "Secured party" means a secured party as defined in section
336.9-102(a)(72), having a security interest in a watercraft and includes a lienholder.
    Subd. 11. Security agreement. "Security agreement" has the meaning given it in section
336.9-102(a)(73).
    Subd. 12. Security interest. "Security interest" has the meaning given it in section
336.1-201(b)(35), and includes statutory liens for which lien statements are filed.
    Subd. 13. Titled watercraft. "Titled watercraft" means a watercraft required to have a
certificate of title under section 86B.825, subdivision 1; a watercraft for which a certificate of
title has been issued under section 86B.825, subdivision 3; or a watercraft previously issued a
certificate of title or similar document from another jurisdiction.
    Subd. 14. Watercraft. "Watercraft" means a device used or designed for navigation on
water that is greater than 16 feet in length, as defined in section 86B.005, subdivision 6, but
does not include:
(1) a row-type fishing boat of single hull construction, with oar locks and an outboard motor
capacity rating of less than 40 horsepower;
(2) a canoe;
(3) a kayak;
(4) a rowing shell or scull;
(5) a ship's lifeboat;
(6) a vessel of at least five net tons measured in Code of Federal Regulations, title 46, part
69, that is documented under Code of Federal Regulations, title 46, subpart 67.01; or
(7) a seaplane.
    Subd. 15. Waters of this state. "Waters of this state" means waters capable of substantial
public use and waters to which the public has access, that are within the territorial limits of this
state, including boundary waters.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 222; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3; 1993 c 310 s 4; 2001 c 185 s 20;
2001 c 195 art 2 s 3,4; 2004 c 162 art 3 s 5

86B.825 CERTIFICATE OF TITLE REQUIRED.
    Subdivision 1. Requirement. Except as provided in subdivision 2, a watercraft used on the
waters of the state must have a certificate of title if the watercraft is kept in the state for more
than 90 consecutive days.
    Subd. 2. Exempt watercraft. A watercraft is not required to have a certificate of title
if the watercraft is:
(1) owned by a manufacturer or dealer and held for sale;
(2) used by a manufacturer solely for testing;
(3) from a jurisdiction other than this state, temporarily using the waters of this state;
(4) owned by the United States, a state, this state, or a political subdivision;
(5) a duck boat used only during duck hunting season;
(6) a rice boat used only during the wild rice harvesting season;
(7) owned by a person, firm, or corporation operating a resort as defined in section 157.15
or a recreational camping area as defined in section 327.14, subdivision 8, except with respect
to a previously titled watercraft; or
(8) watercraft manufactured prior to August 1, 1979.
    Subd. 3. Voluntary titling. The owner of a device used or designed for navigation on water
and used on the waters of this state may obtain a certificate of title for the device, even though it is
not a watercraft as defined in section 86B.820, subdivision 14, in the same manner and with the
same effect as the owner of a watercraft required to be titled under Laws 1989, chapter 335. Once
titled, the device is a titled watercraft as defined in section 86B.820, subdivision 13, and is and
remains subject to Laws 1989, chapter 335, to the same extent as a watercraft required to be titled.
    Subd. 4. Title required for transfer. A person may not sell or otherwise transfer a titled
watercraft without delivering to the person acquiring the watercraft a certificate of title with an
assignment on it to show title in the person acquiring the watercraft. A person may not acquire
a watercraft required to have a certificate of title without obtaining a certificate of title for the
watercraft in the person's name.
    Subd. 5. No legal title without certificate. A person acquiring a watercraft through a sale
or gift does not acquire a right, title, claim, or interest in the watercraft until the person has
been issued a certificate of title to the watercraft or has received a manufacturer's or importer's
certificate. A waiver or estoppel does not operate in favor of that person against another person
who has obtained possession of the certificate of title or manufacturer's or importer's certificate
for the watercraft for valuable consideration.
    Subd. 6. Watercraft license may not be issued without title. The commissioner may not
issue or renew a watercraft license to an owner of a titled watercraft unless the owner has been
issued or has applied for a certificate of title for the watercraft.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 223; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3; 1995 c 207 art 9 s 60; 2001 c 185 s 21

86B.830 APPLICATION AND ISSUANCE OF CERTIFICATE OF TITLE.
    Subdivision 1. Application. The owner of a titled watercraft must apply for the first
certificate of title of a watercraft in this state to the commissioner or a deputy registrar on a form
prescribed by the commissioner. The appropriate fee under section 86B.870 must accompany the
application. The application must be signed by the owner and contain:
(1) the full names, dates of birth, and addresses of owners who are natural persons and
the full names and addresses of other owners;
(2) a description of the watercraft including its make, model, year, length, the principal
material used in construction, and the builder's or manufacturer's hull identification number;
(3) the date of purchase by the applicant, the name and address of the person from whom
the watercraft was acquired;
(4) the name and address of the person who is to possess the title and any conditions of
possession; and
(5) other information required by the commissioner to determine whether the owner is
entitled to a certificate of title and whether security interests exist in the watercraft.
    Subd. 2. Issuance. (a) The commissioner shall issue a certificate of title for a watercraft
upon verification that:
(1) the application is genuine;
(2) the applicant is the owner of the watercraft; and
(3) payment of the required fee.
(b) The original certificate of title must be mailed to the first secured party disclosed in the
application or, if none, to the owner named in the application.
    Subd. 3. Contents. (a) A certificate of title issued by the commissioner must contain:
(1) the date issued;
(2) the full names, dates of birth, and addresses of owners who are natural persons and
the full names and addresses of other owners;
(3) the names and addresses of secured parties;
(4) the title number assigned to the watercraft;
(5) a description of the watercraft including its make, model, year of manufacture, length,
principal material used in construction, registration number, and manufacturer's hull identification
number or, if none, the builder's hull identification number assigned to the watercraft by the
commissioner;
(6) spaces for assignment of title by the owner or by the dealer and for warranting that
the signer is the owner and that the watercraft is not subject to security interests, liens, or
encumbrances except as noted on the face of the certificate of title;
(7) spaces on the certificate for application of title by a new owner subject to the security
interests of secured parties named and for the assignment or release of the security interest of
a secured party; and
(8) other information the commissioner may require.
(b) A certificate of title issued by the commissioner is prima facie evidence of the facts
appearing on it.
    Subd. 4. Issuance without absolute proof of ownership. (a) If application is made for a
certificate of title for a watercraft and the commissioner is not satisfied of the ownership of the
watercraft or the existence of security interests in the watercraft, the watercraft may be assigned a
title number but the commissioner must:
(1) withhold issuance of a certificate of title until the applicant presents documents that
satisfy the commissioner of the applicant's ownership of the watercraft and of security interest
in the watercraft; or
(2) require the applicant to file a bond in the form prescribed by the commissioner and
executed by the applicant as a condition to issuing a certificate of title.
(b) A bond filed under this subdivision must be accompanied by the deposit of cash or
executed by a surety company authorized to do business in this state. The bond must be in an
amount equal to 1-1/2 times the value of the watercraft as determined by the commissioner. The
bond must be conditioned to indemnify prior owners, secured parties, and later purchasers of the
watercraft or persons acquiring a security interest in the watercraft, or successors in interest of the
persons, against expenses, losses, or damages, including reasonable attorney fees, by reason of
the issuance of the certificate of title to the watercraft or on account of a defect in or undisclosed
security interest upon the right, title, and interest of the applicant in the watercraft.
(c) An interested person has a right of action to recover on the bond for a breach of its
conditions, but the aggregate liability of the surety to all persons may not exceed the amount of
the bond.
(d) The commissioner shall return the bond and any deposit accompanying the bond if:
(1) the commissioner has not been notified of the pendency of an action to recover on the
bond;
(2) questions of ownership and outstanding security interests have been resolved to the
satisfaction of the commissioner;
(3) the bond has been posted for three years or the watercraft is not registered for license
purposes in this state under sections 86B.125, 86B.301, and 86B.401 to 86B.421; and
(4) the currently valid certificate of title is surrendered.
    Subd. 5. Records. (a) The commissioner shall maintain records of certificates of title issued
under this section according to one of the following systems:
(1) under a distinctive title number assigned to a watercraft;
(2) under the registration number awarded to a watercraft in accordance with the registration
and numbering law of the state where it is registered;
(3) alphabetically, under the name of the owner; or
(4) under another system determined by the commissioner.
(b) Records relating to watercraft titling maintained by the commissioner are public records
and are open to public inspection during regular office hours.
    Subd. 6. Grounds for refusal to issue certificate of title. The commissioner may not issue
a certificate of title if a required fee is not paid or the commissioner has reasonable grounds
to believe that:
(1) the applicant is not the owner of the watercraft;
(2) the application contains a false statement; or
(3) the applicant failed to furnish required information or documents or additional
information the commissioner reasonably requires.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 224; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3; 2001 c 185 s 22

86B.835 DEALER ACQUISITION AND TRANSFER.
    Subdivision 1. Certificate of origin required. (a) A dealer may not purchase or acquire
a new titled watercraft without obtaining a manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin
from the seller.
(b) A manufacturer, importer, dealer, or other person may not sell or otherwise dispose of a
new titled watercraft to a dealer for purposes of display and resale without delivering to the dealer
a manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin.
    Subd. 2. Contents of certificate. The manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin must
be of a form prescribed by the commissioner and contain:
(1) a description of the watercraft, including its trade name, if any, year, series or model, hull
material, length, and hull identification number;
(2) certification of the date of transfer of the watercraft and the name and address of the
person to whom the watercraft was transferred;
(3) certification that the transfer of the watercraft was in ordinary trade and commerce;
(4) the signature and address of a representative of the person transferring the watercraft;
(5) an assignment form, including the name and address of the person the watercraft is to be
transferred to, a certification that the watercraft is new, and a warranty that the title at the time of
delivery is subject only to the security interests stated on the title; and
(6) other information required by the commissioner.
    Subd. 3. Sale of new watercraft. A dealer selling or exchanging a new titled watercraft,
before delivering the watercraft to a purchaser, shall apply to the commissioner for a new title in
the name of the purchaser. The application must contain the name and address of any secured
party holding a security interest created or reserved at the time of sale and the date of the security
agreement and must be accompanied by a manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin. The
application must be signed by the dealer and the owner, and the dealer shall promptly mail or
deliver the application to the commissioner or a deputy registrar.
    Subd. 4. Used watercraft acquired for resale. (a) If a dealer buys or acquires a used titled
watercraft for resale, the dealer must apply to the commissioner or deputy registrar and obtain a
title number before selling or exchanging the watercraft in the same manner as a new watercraft
on forms the commissioner provides or apply for and obtain a certificate of title.
(b) If a dealer acquires a used titled watercraft for resale and the watercraft is covered by
a certificate of title that is surrendered to the dealer by the owner at the time of delivery of the
watercraft, the dealer need not send the certificate of title to the commissioner. Upon transferring
the watercraft to another person, the dealer must promptly execute the assignment, showing the
name and address of the person to whom the watercraft is transferred and forward the certificate
to the commissioner or deputy registrar with the application for a new certificate of title.
    Subd. 5. Watercraft with foreign registration. (a) Except as provided in paragraph (b),
an application for a certificate of title for a watercraft last registered in another state or foreign
country must contain or be accompanied by:
(1) a certificate of title or registration issued by the other state or foreign country; and
(2) other information or documents the commissioner requires to establish the ownership of
the watercraft and the existence or nonexistence of security interests.
(b) If the state or foreign country where the watercraft was last registered does not issue
certificates of title, the application must contain or be accompanied by:
(1) a proper bill of sale or sworn statement of ownership, certificate of registration, or
evidence of ownership as required by the law of the state or foreign country; and
(2) any other information or documents the commissioner requires to establish the ownership
of the watercraft and the existence or nonexistence of security interests.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 225; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.840 TRANSFER BY OWNER.
    Subdivision 1. Voluntary transfer. (a) An owner who transfers a titled watercraft must
execute the assignment and warranty of title to the person to whom the watercraft is transferred in
the space provided on the certificate of title where the watercraft is delivered.
(b) The person acquiring the watercraft must obtain a new certificate of title by applying to
the commissioner or a deputy registrar on a form prescribed by the commissioner, and submitting
the required fee. The application for certificate of title must be filed within 15 days after delivery
of the watercraft to the person acquiring the watercraft.
(c) Upon request of the owner or the person who acquired the watercraft, a secured party
in possession of the certificate of title must deliver the certificate to the person acquiring the
watercraft, the commissioner, or a deputy registrar, unless the transfer is a breach of the security
agreement. The delivery of the certificate does not affect the rights of the secured party under the
security agreement.
(d) If a security interest or encumbrance is first created at the time of transfer of ownership,
the certificate must be retained by or delivered to the secured party.
    Subd. 2. Transfer by law. (a) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, if the ownership
of a titled watercraft is transferred by operation of law, including inheritance or bequest,
order in bankruptcy, insolvency, replevin, execution, sale, or satisfaction of mechanic's lien,
or repossession upon default in performance of the terms of a security agreement, the person
acquiring the watercraft by operation of law must promptly submit the last certificate of title, if
available, or the manufacturer's or importer's certificate or other satisfactory proof of the transfer
of ownership to the commissioner or deputy registrar with the application for a new certificate of
title and the required fee.
(b) If a secured party acquires a titled watercraft under the terms of a security agreement
or by operation of law, the secured party must promptly submit to the commissioner, a deputy
registrar, or the person acquiring the watercraft from the secured party the last certificate of title,
if available, an application for a new certificate of title with the required fee, and an affidavit by
the secured party or an authorized representative stating the facts entitling the secured party to
possession and ownership of the watercraft, including a copy of the journal entry, court order, or
instrument upon which the claim of possession and ownership is founded. If the secured party
cannot produce the required proof of ownership, the secured party may submit other evidence
with the application and the commissioner may issue a new certificate of title if the evidence
provides satisfactory proof of ownership.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 226; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.845 TEMPORARY WATERCRAFT USE PERMITS.
    Subdivision 1. Issuance to title applicant. (a) The commissioner may issue a temporary
watercraft use permit to a person applying for a certificate of title for a new or used watercraft
to allow that person to operate the watercraft on the waters of this state pending completion of
the titling and watercraft licensing process.
(b) The watercraft use permit must be carried aboard the watercraft to allow immediate
inspection. The watercraft use permit must contain a description of the watercraft, including its
trade name, if any, year, series or model, hull material, length, hull identification number, and
other information prescribed by the commissioner. A permit is valid only for the watercraft
for which it is issued.
    Subd. 2. Distribution to dealers. The commissioner may distribute permits in booklet form
to licensed dealers. If the dealer issues a permit, the dealer must submit a watercraft use permit
information form to the commissioner. The commissioner must provide information forms that
require the name of the person to whom the watercraft use permit was issued, the watercraft
description, dates of issue and expiration, and other information prescribed by the commissioner.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 227; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.850 DUPLICATE CERTIFICATE.
    Subdivision 1. Form and issuance. (a) The commissioner may issue a duplicate certificate
of title under this section. The duplicate certificate of title must be a certified copy plainly marked
"duplicate" across its face and must contain the legend: "This duplicate certificate of title may
be subject to the rights of a person under the original certificate." It must be mailed to the first
secured party named in it or, if none, to the owner. The commissioner shall indicate in the
department records that a duplicate has been issued.
(b) As a condition to issuing a duplicate certificate of title, the commissioner may require a
bond from the applicant in the manner and form prescribed in section 86B.830, subdivision 4,
paragraph (b).
    Subd. 2. Waiting period to issue new certificate of title. The commissioner may not issue a
new certificate of title to a person acquiring a watercraft under an application made on a duplicate
certificate of title until at least 15 days after receiving the application.
    Subd. 3. Disappearance of original certificate. If a certificate of title is lost, stolen, or
destroyed, the owner or legal representative of the owner named in the certificate may obtain a
duplicate by applying to the commissioner, furnishing information the commissioner requires
concerning the original certificate, and the circumstances of its loss or destruction.
    Subd. 4. Mutilated or illegible certificate. If an original certificate of title is mutilated or
rendered illegible, the person in possession of the title must return it to the commissioner with the
application for a duplicate.
    Subd. 5. Recovery of lost or stolen certificate. If a lost or stolen certificate of title for which
a duplicate has been issued is recovered, the lost or stolen certificate of title must be surrendered
promptly to the commissioner for cancellation.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 228; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.855 SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATE.
    Subdivision 1. Suspension or revocation. The commissioner shall suspend or revoke a
certificate of title upon notice and reasonable opportunity to be heard if authorized by law or if
the commissioner finds that:
(1) the certificate of title was fraudulently procured or erroneously issued; or
(2) the watercraft has been scrapped, dismantled, or destroyed.
    Subd. 2. Duties of owner. If the commissioner suspends or revokes a certificate of title, the
owner or person in possession of the certificate of title, immediately upon receiving notice of the
suspension or revocation, shall mail or deliver the certificate to the commissioner.
    Subd. 3. Seizure or impoundment. The commissioner may seize and impound a certificate
of title that has been suspended or revoked.
    Subd. 4. Subsequent good faith purchaser. Suspension or revocation of a certificate of title
does not affect the validity of a subsequent transfer to a purchaser relying in good faith on the
assignment of a suspended or revoked title if the certificate of title was not surrendered to or
seized by the commissioner under subdivisions 2 and 3, and the commissioner shall issue a new
certificate of title to an applicant who is a good faith purchaser for value in those circumstances.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 229; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.860 RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMISSIONER.
The commissioner shall prescribe and provide suitable forms of applications, certificates
of title, notices of security interests, and other notices and forms necessary to implement this
chapter. In addition, the commissioner may:
(1) make necessary investigations to procure information required to implement this chapter;
(2) assign a new hull identification number to a watercraft if the watercraft does not have a
number or the number is destroyed or obliterated; or
(3) adopt and enforce rules necessary to implement this chapter.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 230; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.865 PENALTIES.
    Subdivision 1. Felony. A person is guilty of a felony and punishable by imprisonment for
a term of not more than four years, or payment of a fine of not more than $5,000, or both, if
the person with fraudulent intent:
(1) uses a false or fictitious name or address, makes a material false statement, fails to disclose
a security interest, or conceals any other material fact in an application for a certificate of title; or
(2) submits a false, forged, or fictitious document in support of an application for a certificate
of title.
    Subd. 2. Misdemeanor. A person is guilty of a misdemeanor if that person:
(1) with fraudulent intent permits another to use or possess a certificate of title who is not
entitled to use or possess the certificate of title;
(2) willfully fails to mail or deliver a certificate of title to the commissioner or a deputy
registrar within ten days after the time required;
(3) willfully fails to deliver to a person acquiring a watercraft a certificate of title within ten
days after the time required;
(4) commits a fraud in an application for a certificate of title; or
(5) fails to notify the commissioner of a fact as required by law.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 231; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.870 TITLE FEES.
    Subdivision 1. Fees. (a) The fee to be paid to the commissioner:
(1) for issuing an original certificate of title, including the concurrent notation of an
assignment of the security interest and its subsequent release or satisfaction, is $15;
(2) for each security interest when first noted upon a certificate of title, including the
concurrent notation of an assignment of the security interest and its subsequent release or
satisfaction, is $10;
(3) for transferring the interest of an owner and issuing a new certificate of title, is $10;
(4) for each assignment of a security interest when first noted on a certificate of title, unless
noted concurrently with the security interest, is $1; and
(5) for issuing a duplicate certificate of title, is $4.
(b) In addition to other statutory fees and taxes, a filing fee of $7 is imposed on every
watercraft title application. The filing fee must be shown as a separate item on title renewal
notices sent by the commissioner.
    Subd. 2. Concurrent applications. If a person applies for an original or a new certificate
of title for a watercraft concurrently with an application for transfer of license of the watercraft
to the applicant, the fee prescribed in subdivision 1 is in lieu of the fee prescribed by sections
86B.125, 86B.301, and 86B.401 to 86B.421 for a transfer of ownership or license of the
watercraft to the applicant.
    Subd. 3. Fees paid before title issued. Subject to subdivision 2, the commissioner may not
issue a certificate of title for a watercraft until the fees prescribed by subdivision 1 and sections
86B.125, 86B.301, and 86B.401 to 86B.421 for a prior transfer of ownership or license of the
watercraft have been paid.
    Subd. 4. Deposit of fee. Fees collected under this section must be deposited in the state
treasury and credited to the water recreation account, except a deputy registrar who originates an
application shall retain the filing fee under subdivision 1, paragraph (b).
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 232; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3; 1995 c 220 s 75; 2003 c 128 art 1 s 48

86B.875 INAPPLICABLE LIENS AND SECURITY INTERESTS.
The requirements of this chapter relating to security interests and certificate of title do
not apply to or affect:
(1) a lien given by statute or rule of law to a supplier of services or materials for the
watercraft while the watercraft is in the possession of the lienholder;
(2) a lien given by statute to the United States, this state, or a political subdivision of this
state; or
(3) a security interest in a watercraft created by a manufacturer or dealer who holds the
watercraft for sale.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 233; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.880 SECURITY INTERESTS.
    Subdivision 1. Validity. Unless excepted by section 86B.875, a security interest in a titled
watercraft is not valid against creditors of the owner or subsequent transferees or secured parties
of the watercraft unless perfected as provided in this chapter.
    Subd. 2. Perfection. A security interest is perfected by the delivery to the commissioner
of the existing certificate of title, if any, or an application for a certificate of title, containing
the name and address of the secured party, the date of the security agreement, and the required
fee. A security interest is perfected as of the time of the delivery. The method provided in this
chapter is exclusive.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 234; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3; 2001 c 195 art 1 s 1

86B.885 OWNER-CREATED SECURITY INTEREST.
Paragraphs (a) to (d) apply if an owner creates a security interest in a titled watercraft.
(a) The owner shall immediately execute the application in the space provided on the
certificate of title or on a separate form prescribed by the commissioner, show the name and
address of the secured party on the certificate, and have the certificate, application, and required
fee delivered to the secured party.
(b) The secured party shall immediately have the certificate, application, and required fee
mailed or delivered to the commissioner.
(c) Upon request of the owner or subordinate secured party, a secured party in possession
of the certificate of title shall either (1) mail or deliver the certificate to the subordinate secured
party for delivery to the commissioner, or (2) upon receiving from the subordinate secured party
the owner's application and the required fee, mail or deliver them to the commissioner with the
certificate. The delivery of the certificate does not affect the rights of the first secured party
under the security agreement.
(d) Upon receiving the certificate of title, application, and required fee, the commissioner
shall either endorse on the certificate or issue a new certificate containing the name and address of
the new secured party, and mail or deliver the certificate to the first secured party named on it.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 235; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.890 LICENSED WATERCRAFT PREVIOUSLY PERFECTED.
If a security interest in a previously licensed watercraft is perfected under other applicable
Minnesota law on January 1, 1991, the security interest continues perfected:
(1) until its perfection lapses under the law under which it was perfected or would lapse
in the absence of a further filing; or
(2) until a certificate of title for the watercraft is issued and the security interest is perfected
under section 86B.880.
The assignment, release, or satisfaction of a security interest in a previously licensed
watercraft is governed by the laws under which it was perfected.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 236; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.895 SATISFACTION OF SECURITY INTEREST.
    Subdivision 1. Release. Upon the satisfaction of a security interest in a watercraft for
which the certificate of title is in the possession of the secured party, the secured party, within
15 days, shall execute a release of the security interest in the space provided on the certificate
or as prescribed by the commissioner, and mail or deliver the certificate and release to the next
secured party named or, if none, to the owner or a person who delivers to the secured party an
authorization from the owner to receive the certificate. The owner, other than a dealer holding the
watercraft for resale, shall promptly have the certificate, the release, and the required fee mailed
or delivered to the commissioner, who shall release the secured party's rights on the certificate
or issue a new certificate.
    Subd. 2. Release of subordinate security interest. Upon the satisfaction of a security
interest in a watercraft for which the certificate of title is in the possession of a prior secured party,
the secured party whose security interest is satisfied shall execute a release in the form prescribed
by the commissioner and, within 15 days after satisfaction, deliver the release to the owner or
a person who delivers to the secured party.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 237; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.900 DISCLOSURE OF SECURITY AGREEMENT.
A secured party named in a certificate of title, upon written request of the owner or other
secured party named on the certificate, must disclose pertinent information about the security
agreement and the indebtedness secured by it.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 238; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.905 EFFECT OF SUSPENSION OR REVOCATION ON SECURITY INTEREST.
Suspension or revocation of a certificate of title does not, in itself, affect the validity of a
security interest noted on it.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 239; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.910 PREVIOUSLY LICENSED WATERCRAFT UNDISCLOSED SECURITY
INTERESTS.
If the commissioner is not satisfied that there are no undisclosed security interests created
before the watercraft is initially titled, the commissioner may, in addition to its options under
section 86B.830, subdivision 4, issue a distinctive certificate of title for the watercraft containing
the legend: "This watercraft may be subject to an undisclosed lien," and any other information the
commissioner prescribes.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 240; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.915 LIENS ATTACHING TO WATERCRAFT.
(a) A nonpossessory lien on a titled watercraft is not perfected unless a lien statement is
filed with the commissioner.
(b) The lien statement must include:
(1) the watercraft owner's name and address;
(2) the statute under which the lien is taken;
(3) the name and address of the lienholder; and
(4) the title number of the watercraft.
(c) The commissioner shall note the time and date of filing the lien statement.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 241; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3

86B.920 STOLEN WATERCRAFT.
    Subdivision 1. Duty of peace officers. A peace officer aware of a stolen or converted
watercraft shall immediately furnish the commissioner with information concerning the theft
or conversion.
    Subd. 2. Duty of commissioner. The commissioner, upon receiving a report of the theft or
conversion of a watercraft, shall record the report information, including the make of the stolen
or converted watercraft and its builder's hull identification number, if any. The commissioner
shall prepare a list of watercraft reported stolen and those recovered as disclosed by the reports
submitted. The report may be distributed as the commissioner deems advisable.
    Subd. 3. Duty of owner. If a stolen or converted watercraft is recovered, the owner shall
immediately notify the commissioner.
History: 1989 c 335 art 1 s 242; 1990 c 391 art 10 s 3