Nevada § 488.580 - Operation of personal watercraft
Full text of Nevada Nevada Revised Statutes § 488.580 — Operation of personal watercraft, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 488.580. Operation of personal watercraft
1. A person shall not operate or authorize another person to operate a personal watercraft
under his or her ownership or control: (a) In a reckless or negligent manner so as to endanger the life or property of another
person. (b) Unless the operator and each passenger is wearing a life jacket of an appropriate
size and type for the person for whom it was intended that has been approved by the
United States Coast Guard and meets any requirements prescribed by the regulations
of the Commission. (c) Unless the operator is at least 14 years of age. (d) Unless the operator satisfies any applicable provisions of NRS 488.730 . 2. There is prima facie evidence that a person is operating a personal watercraft
in a reckless or negligent manner if that person commits two or more of the following
acts simultaneously: (a) Operates the personal watercraft within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest
vessel, unless both are leaving a flat wake or traveling at a speed of not more than
5 nautical miles per hour. (b) Operates the personal watercraft in the vicinity of a power-driven vessel in a
manner that obstructs the visibility of either operator. (c) Heads into the wake of a power-driven vessel which is within a zone closer than
5 lengths of the longest vessel and causes one-half or more of the length of the personal
watercraft to leave the water. (d) Within a zone closer than 5 lengths of the longest vessel, maneuvers quickly,
turns sharply or swerves, unless the maneuver is necessary to avoid collision. 3. As used in this section, “ personal watercraft ” means: (a) A class A power-driven vessel which: (1) Is less than 13 feet in length; (2) Is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing or kneeling on, rather
than in, the power-driven vessel; (3) Is capable of performing sharp turns or quick maneuvers; and (4) Has a motor that exceeds 10 horsepower. (b) A mechanically propelled personal hydrofoil or motorized surfboard.
Source: official Nevada text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Nevada § 488.580
What does Nevada Revised Statutes § 488.580 cover?
Section 488.580 ("Operation of personal watercraft") is part of the Nevada Revised Statutes, the codified statutory law of Nevada. 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 Nevada § 488.580?
A common citation format is "Nevada Revised Statutes § 488.580" (Nevada). 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 Nevada law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Nevada official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Nevada attorney.
How does Nevada § 488.580 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Nevada 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 Nevada.