Rhode Island § 46-22-12 - Regulation of Boats
Full text of Rhode Island Rhode Island General Laws § 46-22-12 — Regulation of Boats, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 46-22-12. Regulation of Boats
R.I. Gen. Laws § 46-22-12
§ 46-22-12. Water skis and surfboards.
(a) No person shall operate a vessel on any waters of this state for towing a person or persons on water skis, or a surfboard, or similar device unless there is in the vessel a person at least twelve (12) years of age, in addition to the operator, in a position to observe the progress of the person or persons being towed. Any person or persons on water skis, a surfboard, a tube or similar device that is being towed behind a vessel on any waters of this state shall be required to wear a life jacket approved by the U.S. Coast Guard.
(b) No person shall operate a vessel on any waters of this state towing a person or persons on water skis, a surfboard, or similar device, nor shall any person engage in water skiing, surfboarding, or similar activity at any time between the hours from one hour after sunset to one hour before sunrise.
(c) The provisions of subsections (a) and (b) do not apply to a performer engaged in a professional exhibition or a person or persons engaged in an activity authorized under § 46-22-13.
(d) No person shall operate or manipulate any vessel, tow rope, or other device by which the direction or location of water skis, a surfboard, or similar device may be affected or controlled in such a way as to cause the water skis, surfboard, or similar device, or any person thereon to collide with or strike against any object or person.
History of Section.
P.L. 1959, ch. 187, § 1; P.L. 1969, ch. 61, § 1; P.L. 1978, ch. 186, § 1; P.L. 2007,
ch. 75, § 1; P.L. 2007, ch. 87, § 1.
Source: official Rhode Island text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhode Island § 46-22-12
What does Rhode Island General Laws § 46-22-12 cover?
Section 46-22-12 ("Regulation of Boats") is part of the Rhode Island General Laws, the codified statutory law of Rhode Island. 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 Rhode Island § 46-22-12?
A common citation format is "Rhode Island General Laws § 46-22-12" (Rhode Island). 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 Rhode Island law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Rhode Island official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Rhode Island attorney.
How does Rhode Island § 46-22-12 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Rhode Island 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 Rhode Island.