Michigan Kayaking Laws

The Michigan kayak laws strike a balance between recreation and safety. They protect the lives of people and the environment while promoting a fun, refreshing experience. Although the regulations may seem complicated at first, understanding the basics can go a long way toward safeguarding you, your loved ones and aquatic life.

This guide highlights the key laws and guidelines when kayaking in state waterways. Note the general rules and exceptions and comply at all times.

Understanding the Kayak Laws in Michigan 

Michigan’s boating regulations govern the use of kayaks and other vessels on state waterways. The comprehensive laws cover safety, proper equipment use, environmental protection, waterway access and age restrictions. The Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the principal agency that enforces these laws and adapts guidelines to address emerging challenges. The county sheriff’s department, United States Coastal Guard (USCG) and other authorized law enforcement agencies also play vital roles.

Adhering to kayaking laws in Michigan is essential for many reasons, including the following: 

• Personal safety: Following the safety protocols reduces the risk of injuries. It helps kayakers stay informed about local water conditions, potential hazards and safe navigation practices.
• Environmental protection: Michigan kayaking laws help protect aquatic life, maintain ecological balance and preserve natural resources for future generations.
• Promoting responsible recreation: The navigational rules can reduce collision. Following the basic guidelines can encourage responsible behavior and enhance the recreational experience. 
• Legal compliance: Complying with kayaking laws reduces arrests and fines. Following the safety practices also mitigates potential lawsuits. 

Kayakers must comply to keep themselves and the environment safe.

Permit and License Requirements for Kayakers 

Under Michigan law, you do not require a license or registration to operate a vessel that solely relies on human power, such as paddle-propelled kayaks. You can use a human-powered kayak or one with a motor smaller than 6 horsepower without special education or certification. Those who must register motorized kayaks can follow these steps:

1. Gather all relevant information, such as identification, proof of ownership and kayak details. Examples of kayak details include the model, year of manufacture and hull identification number (HIN). 
2. Go to the Michigan DNR website to create an account and complete the form. Alternatively, you can visit a local DNR office or authorized agent.
3. Pay the registration fee.
4. Receive the registration decal and affix it to your kayak.
5. Complete the boating safety course to obtain certification, if applicable. 

Kayakers aged 17 and above who intend to fish must get a fishing license from the DNR or any local licensed retailer. 

Safety Regulations for Kayakers

As a safety protocol, the Michigan boating laws require that you carry some equipment. These include:

1. Personal Floatation Devices (PFDs)

Kayakers must carry PFDs or life jackets approved by the USCG. The PFD can be a wearable or throwable device. Additionally, it must be in good, serviceable condition and accessible. Kayakers carrying wearable PFDs must choose the appropriate size based on body weight and chest size.

USCG-approved PFDs have labels containing vital information. The older PFDs have type numbers ranging from one to five, indicating the conditions and intended use. The newer ones have a performance level icon containing a number that typically ranges from 50 to 150. PFDs with lower numbers are intended for near-shore activities, while those with higher numbers are intended for offshore activities.

2. Navigation Lights

Kayakers traveling between sunset and sunrise or during reduced visibility must carry navigation lights. The required navigation light depends on the size or type of your kayak. For example, power-driven kayaks less than 26 feet long would have different navigation light requirements than unpowered kayaks less than 26 feet long.

3. Sound Producing Devices

Sound-producing devices are essential for reduced visibility or whenever you need to signal your position or intentions. A classic example is an emergency whistle. The type of device you need depends on whether you are in state or federally-controlled waters. Most kayakers in Michigan would need a whistle that can produce a two-second blast or more and audible at least one-half mile away.

4. Visual Distress Signals (VDSs)

VDSs allow you to signal for help during emergencies. They are divided into three classes:

• Day signals: These are visible in bright sunlight.
• Night signals: These are visible at night.
• Day and night signals: These are visible during the day or night.

The VDS could be pyrotechnic or non-pyrotechnic. The pyrotechnic options discharge flames and smoke, while the non-pyrotechnic options are non-combustible. Carrying a VDS is mandatory in federally controlled waters.

Kayaking Best Practices

In addition to the emergency devices, kayakers must comply with some safety practices. These include:

• Reckless operation: Kayakers must have due regard for the safety or rights of others. You should avoid endangering your life or the lives of other people and their properties. 
• Improper distancing and speeding: Kayakers should maintain a proper distance to avoid collisions. Operate at a slow, no-wake speed when required, especially when using a powered kayak.
• Alcohol and drug usage: Michigan law prohibits kayaking while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Your blood alcohol content (BAC) must be below 0.08% to avoid criminal penalties. 

Environmental Concerns

The protection of wildlife and natural resources is crucial in Michigan. As such, the law prescribes permitted and prohibited activities focusing on the environment. First, no one can discharge hazardous materials or improperly dispose of waste in state or federal waters. Throwing trash or any form of harmful materials into lakes, rivers or other waterways is illegal. 

Second, introducing aquatic invasive species into waterways is unlawful. You must learn to identify invasive aquatic plants and animals and take precautions to prevent their spread. Standard protocols include inspecting your kayak and equipment and removing debris, mud and aquatic plants before launching or retrieving a watercraft. You should also avoid transferring fish to water bodies other than where you caught them. 

Waterway Access 

Michigan has over 1,300 public boating access sites and over 3,000 miles of water trails in inland lakes, rivers and along the Great Lakes. Adhering to the rules, such as obtaining the necessary permits and following the safety and environmental protection protocols, is essential when exploring these areas. Regarding private waterways, kayakers should respect boundaries and avoid trespassing, which can result in civil actions.

Age Restrictions 

In Michigan, persons under 12 can operate a motor-powered kayak under 6 horsepower without restrictions. If they want to operate one that exceeds 6 horsepower but under 35 horsepower, they must obtain a boating safety certificate and be supervised by a person aged 16 or above. Operating a motor-powered kayak of more than 35 horsepower is illegal for this age group.

Persons born on or after July 1, 1996, must get a boating certificate to operate a motor-powered kayak of more than 6 horsepower. Persons born before this period can operate legally without restrictions.

Use Reliable Dock Systems for Responsible Waterways Exploration 

Reliable dock systems can help you comply with Michigan kayak regulations. Stable docks make it easy to access waterways and enhance safety. Eco-friendly dock systems also ensure a wholesome experience without endangering aquatic life. Responsible waterway exploration starts at launch, and EZ Dock can help you achieve that.

EZ Dock provides an alternative to wood and foam-filled docks, which often release harmful substances into their natural surroundings. Our floating docks are easily customizable, durable and ideal for residential and commercial applications. Want to learn more? Contact us today!