All vessels except sailboards and certain racing shells or rowing skulls must have at least one wearable Type I, II, III or V life jacket that is U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) approved and of the proper size for each person on board.

All life jackets must be in good and serviceable condition and must be readily accessible. In addition to the above requirements, vessels 16 feet in length or longer, except a canoe or kayak, must have on Type IV USCG-approved throwable floatation device on board and readily accessible.

All children 12 years of age and younger must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, III life jacket while underway on any vessel. The life jacket must be fastened according to the manufacturer's recommended use and must fit the child properly.

Each person on a personal watercraft such as a jet ski must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II, III life jacket and all closures must be fastened and secured according to the manufacturer's design or recommended use and must be adjusted for a snug fit.

Each person being towed behind a vessel on water skis or a similar device must wear a life jacket or buoyant belt. Note however, that buoyant belts are not approved by the USCG.