Take a beautiful summer day and turn it into a lake day! With so many access points and boat rental companies here in Lake Norman, it's not hard to get out on the water with family and friends. This guide will point you in the right direction for safe and lawful practices while you boat or swim! 

Lake Norman is home to several excellent and responsible boat rental companies that take all precautions and regulations very seriously. "Cornelius Pontoon Rentals," "Carolina Cruising Charters," "Party Pontoon," and "Ride Wake & Surf Co." are just a few of the more long-standing reputable boat rentals to name, but all are required to adhere to all rules and regulations. 

DTN - HI - Chartered Cruises - Party Pontoon
Party Pontoon
Ride Wake and Surf Pontoon
Ride Wake & Surf Co.

Laws and Regulations

Laws enforced by NC Wildlife & Sheriff's Department:

  • Boater Safety Course required for operators born after Jan 1, 1988

  • Life jackets are required for anyone under age 13

  • No-wake zones within 150 feet of docks, bridges, marinas, or ramps, and within 100 feet of law enforcement vessels

  • No boating while impaired

  • No littering

Additional regulations to note:

  • Possession of Sterile Grass Carp is illegal

  • Anchored boats must stay at least 50 yards from other vessels and within 100 yards of shore

  • Bow and stern lights are required from sundown to sunrise

These rules are in place to ensure everyone’s safety and enjoyment on the water.

Personal Watercraft

A Personal Watercraft (PWC) is defined by North Carolina law as “A small vessel which uses an outboard motor or propeller-driven motor, or an inboard motor powering a water jet pump, as its primary source of motive power and which is designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing, or kneeling on, or being towed behind the vessel, rather than in the conventional manner of sitting or standing inside the vessel." When operating a Personal Watercraft, there are a few important rules and laws to follow:

  • The operator of a PWC may not be under the age of 14
  • If the operator of a PWC is under the age of 16, they must have certification or be accompanied on board by someone who is at least 18 years old and in compliance with the requirements of operating a vessel.
  • After sunset, a PWC cannot be operated until sunrise
  • Any driver, passenger, or person being towed by a PWC must wear a personal flotation device 
Cornelius Pontoon Rentals
Cornelius Pontoon Rentals

Required Equipment

Whether you're using a rental company or taking your own boat out on the water, take the time to ensure all proper equipment is there to not only stay safe but also obey the law. Here are the requirements:

  • A wearable personal flotation device for everyone on board 
  • An appropriately sized fire extinguisher on board the boat
  • A whistle or some sort of noise-making device

Ride Wake and Surf Pontoon

Keep Lake Norman a safe and fun place to explore! Regulations and rules must be followed so that time on the water is spent safely and without risk. Follow local and state law, and conduct safe practices while taking part in watersports or boating on the lake. Curious about how to get out on Lake Norman? Check out our “Boat and Jet Ski Rentals” page for information on our local rental companies.