The Navigation Laws of the Great Lakes
The Navigation Laws of the Great Lakes are a set of laws that govern the navigation, trade, transport and other activities of vessels navigating the Great Lakes region in North America. These rules have been developed over time, mainly to ensure the efficient use of fluid resources, to protect vessel operators and occupants, and to maintain environmental protection. Vessels of any type and size, as well as their pilots, must comply with the Navigation Laws of the Great Lakes.
Vessel Registration
It is a legal requirement that a vessel navigates the Great Lakes region must be registered with the appropriate authorities, and must carry a valid registration certificate at all times. Depending on the vessel’s size and purpose the appropriate registration can be obtained from the Canadian, US or state government. All vessels must be marked with a valid registration number and name.
Operating Requirements
All vessels operating on the Great Lakes are subject to a number of operating requirements. These regulations ensure the safety of both the vessel and its occupants. Such points include the requirement for safe working spaces, fire extinguishers, lifejackets, communication equipment, navigational equipment and a functional distress call system. In addition, vessels are restricted in the distances they can travel when visibility is limited.
International Boundaries and Pilotage Requirements
Vessels travelling on the Great Lakes must respect international boundaries due to their proximity to both the USA and Canada. All vessels navigating international waters must be in possession of an International Navigation Certificate. Furthermore, delicate areas such as restricted may require pilots to be on board, as well as to provide evidence of prior experience piloting on these waters.
Environmental Requirements
In order to preserve the natural environment, vessel operators must abide by certain environmental regulations. Such environmental requirements include maintaining a clean and unobstructed navigation space, abiding to laws that limit boat traffic in specific areas and ensuring that the vessel does not cause water disturbances. In addition, vessels must be free from oil or hazardous materials and operate their engines at a noise level that does not disturb wildlife or other vessels.
Regional Navigation Requirements
Depending on the individual towns or cities, other navigation rules may also be enforced. Such navigation requirements can range from restrictions in the size of boats allowed in a particular area, speed limits, limited bridge openings and other specific navigation laws. All vessel operators have a responsibility to make themselves aware of any local navigation rules that are in place in their area of navigation.
The Navigation Laws of the Great Lakes are stringent but necessary in order to ensure the safety and efficiency of vessel operators, occupants and the environment. It is up to the individual vessel operators to make themselves aware of all of the navigation regulations that are in place on the Great Lakes region and to comply with them accordingly. By ensuring that they abide by all of the Navigation Laws of the Great Lakes, vessel operators can rest assured that they are doing their part to maintain the safety of the Great Lakes.