With the recent warm temperatures, you may be tempted to refrain from Personal Flotation Device (PFD) use while recreating in Minnesota waters. Please follow safe boating protocol and wear your PFD during your time on the water.

In Minnesota, boating safety regulations, including those related to PFDs are primarily found in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 86B, specifically section 86B.501. This statute outlines requirements for the number, type, and accessibility of PFDs on watercraft. Additionally, Minnesota DNR regulations, such as those found in Minnesota Rules Chapter 6110.1200, provide further details on acceptable PFDs and their proper use.  

Key points regarding PFDs in Minnesota:

• Minnesota law mandates that all watercraft have a U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD for each person on board.

• Children under the age of ten are required to wear a properly fitted, U.S. Coast Guard-approved PFD when the watercraft is underway, according to the Minnesota DNR. 
• PFDs must be readily accessible, meaning they should not be stored in a way that would make them difficult to grab in an emergency. 
• Watercraft 16 feet or longer (excluding canoes and kayaks) must also carry a throwable PFD (like a buoyant cushion or ring buoy), in addition to the wearable ones. 
• Exemptions:

There are some exemptions to the PFD requirements, such as when a person is in an enclosed cabin, on a boat anchored for swimming, or aboard a charter boat with a licensed captain. 

• Failure to comply with PFD requirements can result in fines and other penalties. 
• A recent bill proposes requiring reflective material on children's life jackets, with specific requirements for size and placement (31 square inches, equally divided on front and back, near the shoulders). This change is set to take effect January 1, 2027. 

Where to find the specific statutes and rules:

• Minnesota Statutes Chapter 86B: This chapter covers all aspects of watercraft and boating regulations. 
• Minnesota Statutes 86B.501: This specific section focuses on personal flotation and lifesaving devices. 
• Minnesota Rules Chapter 6110.1200: This rule outlines details about acceptable PFDs and their use. 
• Minnesota DNR Website: The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources provides information and resources on boating safety, including PFDs. 
• MN Revisor's Office (.gov): The official website for Minnesota statutes and rules provides access to the full text of the law. 

THE BEST PFD IS ONE YOU WEAR!!