Illinois § 4-8

Full text of Illinois Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4-8, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.

§ 4-8.

Sirens and flashing lights. (a) Except as provided in this Section, it shall be unlawful for any person to use a watercraft equipped with a siren or any red or blue oscillating, rotating, or flashing light. The use of a siren or light in violation of this Section shall constitute a public nuisance subject to confiscation and disposal as determined by a court of competent jurisdiction. (b) Any authorized emergency watercraft described in subsection (c) or (d) may be equipped with a siren, but the siren shall not be used except when the watercraft is operating in response to an emergency call or in the immediate pursuit of an actual or suspected violator of the law. (c) The use of blue oscillating, rotating, or flashing lights, whether lighted or unlighted, is prohibited except on law enforcement watercraft of State, federal, or local authorities. (d) The use of red oscillating, rotating, or flashing lights, whether lighted or unlighted, is prohibited except on fire, rescue, or other emergency watercraft as authorized by State, federal, or local authorities having jurisdiction, provided the watercraft are clearly identifiable as such; the lights shall not be lighted except when responding to an emergency call or while actually engaged in a hazardous situation. (e) The use of any other color of oscillating, rotating, or flashing lights, whether lighted or unlighted, is prohibited except as authorized by the Department. (Source: P.A. 88-524.)

Frequently Asked Questions About Illinois § 4-8

What does Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4-8 cover?

Section 4-8 is part of the Illinois Compiled Statutes, the codified statutory law of Illinois. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.

How do I cite Illinois § 4-8?

A common citation format is "Illinois Compiled Statutes § 4-8" (Illinois). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.

Is this the official text of Illinois law?

No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Illinois official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Illinois attorney.

How does Illinois § 4-8 apply to my situation?

Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Illinois can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.

Sources & Verification

Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Illinois.