Idaho’s Life Jacket Laws You Need to Know

When you're heading out to Lucky Peak, Quinns Pond, or any one of the hundreds of lakes and rivers around Idaho, you need to make sure you're abiding by Idaho lifejacket laws. If you don't you could be facing hefty fines, or even worse put you or your kids at risk of injury.

The Idaho Department of Parks and Recreation want to remind you about Idaho's life jacket laws. Here's the deal:  "kids 14 years and younger are required to wear a life jacket on all vessels 19 feet or less when the vessel is underway." So you may be thinking, 'ok a boat 19' or less....got it!" However, the term "vessel" applies to more than just boats. Anything with a motor, rafts, canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rowboats and drift boats. The life jackets you do decide to use must also be Coast Guard approved and fit properly.

If you're kiddo isn't wearing their lifejacket and get caught, YOU (the adult operator of the vessel) would be subject to a $99 citation. Don't risk it!! For more information on boating laws in Idaho, CLICK HERE.