Minnesota’s lakes and rivers are a cherished part of our outdoor culture—and as the 2025 boating season approaches, a wave of new legislation is set to change how we enjoy them.

Whether you’re launching out of Duluth into the vastness of Lake Superior or cruising one of our state’s 10,000 lakes, new boating laws effective July 1, 2025 will impact you.

The Duluth Sail and Power Squadron (DSPS) is committed to keeping boaters informed, safe, and ready for these changes. Below is an in-depth look at what to expect from the updated laws, why they’re being introduced, and how to prepare before summer sets sail.

Why the Law Is Changing

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Coast Guard have collaborated to modernize and enhance the state’s boating safety framework. These updates are designed to improve water safety, ensure consistent enforcement, and reduce the number of avoidable boating accidents across the state.

While some of these laws may seem minor, they reflect a growing emphasis on responsible boating and increased accountability for all recreational vessel operators.

New Boating Laws Effective July 1, 2025

🧭 Mandatory Boater Safety Education

Starting July 1, anyone born after July 1, 1987, must complete a Minnesota-approved boating safety education course before operating a motorized boat or personal watercraft (PWC). This includes jet skis and all powered watercraft, regardless of horsepower.

What this means: If you’re under the age of 38, this new requirement affects you directly—even if you’ve been boating for years. Courses like the America’s Boating Course, available through DSPS, offer certification and in-depth training to help you stay safe and compliant.

🔥 Updated Fire Extinguisher Requirements

New rules mandate that boats equipped with inboard engines, enclosed fuel compartments, or battery storage must carry U.S. Coast Guard-approved fire extinguishers that are unexpired and in working condition.

Tip: Many boaters are unaware that fire extinguishers have a shelf life. If yours is more than 12 years old or lacks the proper labeling, it’s time to replace it.

🦺 Life Jacket Regulations

The new law reinforces Minnesota’s existing requirement that children under 10 must wear a life jacket at all times while aboard any vessel. In addition, all PFDs (personal flotation devices) must be the correct size, readily accessible, and in good condition—not stowed under piles of gear or in locked compartments.

This regulation is designed to eliminate dangerous delays during emergencies when every second counts.

🌙 Navigation Lights and Night Operations

Another important change requires boaters to use proper navigation lighting during evening, nighttime, and poor visibility conditions. Navigation lights aren’t just for larger boats—they’re required on smaller fishing boats and paddlecraft when operating between sunset and sunrise or during fog, heavy rain, or other low-visibility conditions.

🏷 Registration Decal Placement

The Minnesota DNR is also tightening enforcement of decal placement on watercraft. All boats must display their registration numbers and decals in the forward half of the hull, on both sides, with no obstruction or decorative interference.

Boats with misplaced, hidden, or artistically modified decals could face fines or denial of launch access.

🚤 What’s Coming Next: 2026 and Beyond

The July 2025 changes are just the first wave. Over the next several years, we expect additional changes focused on:

• Expanding mandatory boater education to more age groups
• Requiring safety equipment verification during registration renewals
• Increasing enforcement presence on high-traffic waterways

As these updates roll out, DSPS will continue to provide the latest information to keep local boaters well-prepared.

✅ How to Get Ready

To stay compliant and confident:

• Take a certified boater safety course (offered online or through DSPS)
• Schedule a free Vessel Safety Check through DSPS this spring
• Inspect and replace fire extinguishers and PFDs as needed
• Test your navigation lights and communication gear
• Read your hull decal placement instructions

⚓ DSPS Is Here to Help

As a proud local arm of the United States Power Squadrons, the Duluth Sail and Power Squadron offers:

• Free boater safety classes
• Free vessel safety inspections
• Local expertise and guidance on Lake Superior navigation
• Regular safety blog posts and Facebook updates
• Participation in local events and community education

We encourage all area boaters to visit duluthsailandpowersquadron.com and follow us on Facebook to stay informed.

🛟 Closing Thoughts

The 2025 boating season marks a shift toward better preparation, accountability, and safety on Minnesota’s waterways. Whether you’re fishing on a quiet inland lake or cruising the Twin Ports, these laws will help make your time on the water safer and more enjoyable for everyone.

Now is the time to educate yourself and prepare for a smooth, compliant season on the water. From safety gear checks to boater certification—DSPS has your back.