Game And Fish Proposes New Boating Rules, Checkpoints

By Laurel Morales
January 02, 2017

An Arizona agency is considering new boating rules to improve safety on the state’s lakes and rivers. 

The Arizona Game and Fish Department has proposed a ban on boaters towing water skiers from swim platforms and a requirement that wake surfers wear life vests. The agency also has looked at a 12 year age requirement for those who watch for hazards while people waterski. Currently there is no such requirement.

The department has considered sobriety and safety checkpoints on lakes and rivers. 

The Glen Canyon National Recreation Area superintendent said Lake Powell averages six drowning deaths a year. And last summer the park service urged boaters to use caution after two serious accidents — one fatal.

If approved by lawmakers, the proposed rules would take effect in the fall.