BOAT SAFE BOAT SOBER

Operating a motorboat or sailboat while under the influence of alcohol (.08 alcohol level or higher), a controlled substance or other illegal chemical, is unlawful. Operators who are impaired may be required to take tests by an enforcement officer to determine their sobriety.

Iowa law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxicated (BWI). This includes the operation of any vessel or manipulation of any water-skis, surfboard, or similar device while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage, marijuana, a narcotic, hypnotic or other drug, or any combination of these substances.

Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slow reaction time. Alcohol contributes to about one-third of all boating accidents nationwide.

Anyone refusing to test could face jail time and/or fines. All navigable waters in the state of Iowa are subject to the law which took effect July 1, 2000.

KNOW THE FACTS
First Offense	Second Offense	Third Offense
A serious misdemeanor can result in the following punishments: Imprisonment in the county jail for at least 48 hours. Assessment of a fine up to $1,000 Loss of boat operating privileges for one year. Substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a drinking drivers course.	An aggravated misdemeanor can result in the following punishments: Imprisonment in the county jail or community-based correctional facility for at least seven days. Assessment of a $1,500 to $5,500 fine. Loss of boat operating privileges for two years. Substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a drinking drivers course.	A class "D" felony can result in the following punishments: Imprisonment in the county jail for 30 days to one year. Assessment of a $2,500 to $7,500 fine. Loss of boat operating privileges for six years. Substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a drinking drivers course.

KNOW THE FACTS

First Offense

Second Offense

Third Offense

A serious misdemeanor can result in the following punishments:

Imprisonment in the county jail for at least 48 hours.
Assessment of a fine up to $1,000
Loss of boat operating privileges for one year.
Substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a drinking drivers course.

An aggravated misdemeanor can result in the following punishments:

Imprisonment in the county jail or community-based correctional facility for at least seven days.
Assessment of a $1,500 to $5,500 fine.
Loss of boat operating privileges for two years.
Substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a drinking drivers course.

A class "D" felony can result in the following punishments:

Imprisonment in the county jail for 30 days to one year.
Assessment of a $2,500 to $7,500 fine.
Loss of boat operating privileges for six years.
Substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a drinking drivers course.

Can I drink alcohol on the boat?

Yes. Consuming alcohol is permissible on the boat, but remember the operator is not to be under the influence.

Will a boating offense affect my driver's license?

No, a boating offense will not be transferred to your automobile driving record.

How much alcohol can I consume to be considered legally drunk?

That depends on the individual. Use extra caution while drinking on the boat because sun, wind, and movement can quickly amplify the effects of alcohol and disorient the operator or passengers.

Link to http://www.boat-ed.com/ia/ia_internet.htm to view all Iowa Boating Regulations.

Content compliments of the Iowa Department of Natural Resources