family of Canada geese

Oregon Boating Rules

Oregon Boating Rules

For all paddlecraft, the Oregon State Marine Board states that you need these things:

  1. Lifejacket– one for each person on board; children 12 and under must wear their lifejacket; life jacket loaner stations are available at many boating locations.
  2. Whistle ( or a compressed air horn);
  3. Navigation lights– required if between sunset and sunrise or periods of low visibility;
  4. A Waterway Access Permit– see more on that below.

Waterway Access Permits

You probably need one.

Be aware that a Waterway Access Permit (previously named Aquatic Invasive Species permit) is required in Oregon for any paddlecraft that is 10’ or longer (paddlers under 14 years old are exempt) on any Oregon waters. It is easy to get one, just purchase it online and print out a copy. You can choose 7-day, 1 year, and 2 year terms. And it’s for a good cause as the fees help fund the maintenance of boat ramps, parking, restrooms, and prevention of aquatic invasive species.