Stand Up Paddleboarders Risking Ticket for Not Doing This

With weather in the 80s and no set date for this year's floating season, Treasure Valley residents are looking to cool off any way they can...but are they risking a ticket on those popular stand up paddleboards?

Ever since I got to demo one at The Harbour, I've eyeing the one that's on display for $299 at the Albertson's in my neighborhood. There are a few things keeping me from pulling the trigger on it. #1 I'm poor. I settled for the $10 inflatable pool flamingo instead. #2 Paddleboards have way different rules on Idaho waterways than I thought they did!

The state of Idaho considers paddleboards a boat if they're used outside of designated swimming or surfing areas. By definition, that means there needs to be a Coast Guard approved life jacket for each passenger and a whistle/ other noisemakers on board the paddleboard. Anyone under the age of 14 must wear that life jacket on a paddleboard measuring 19 feet or less. Failure to carry the proper safety equipment could cost you $99 if ticketed.

Since paddleboards are considered a boat, the must also have an Idaho Invasive Species sticker that starts at $7. The only way around that is if you're riding an inflatable SUP that's shorter than ten feet. Being caught without once may result in a $72 fine. Want to buy one? Find out where to buy one here!

Oh and of course, you can be arrested for a DUI on a paddleboard...so make smart decisions!