NOTICE OF CHANGES TO BUOY OPERATIONS
Maryland has wonderful boating opportunities. We can enjoy the lakes and rivers of western Maryland, the Chesapeake Bay and its
tributaries, and the beautiful Coastal Bays. Boating is a fun, family-friendly, activity that is ideal for residents as well as visitors.
Maryland has a number of water trails that are perfect for canoes, kayaks and small boats, and miles of waterways to discover on larger
boats. We also have a
map showing the location of many public boat
ramps in Maryland.
More boat ramps can be found within our State
Parks. Boaters who use the State Park boat ramps
frequently may benefit from buying a
State Park Passport, which allow the holder unlimited ramp
use at State Parks. (The Park Passport does not include ramps at
various county operated boat ramps.)
Boating safety is most important. All boaters should take a Boating
Safety Course. The course is required for residents born after July
1, 1972. Certain safety equipment is also required on all boats.
Please review the schedule of classes and a list of required safety equipment.
Boaters can make a difference in protecting our waters in many ways. View the
list of “Clean Marinas”
to find certified Maryland Clean Marinas, discover Clean Boating
Tips and to take the Maryland Clean Boater Pledge. There are
hundreds of pump-out stations around the state to help boaters comply with the law, and
keep raw sewage out of our waterways. Boaters must comply with
regulations that prohibit discharge of petroleum, sewage, and trash.
Boating is good clean fun. Let’s keep it that way!
There is also information about vessel registration,
regulatory, and
grant programs. These programs make boating in Maryland safer and more enjoyable for everyone.
Personal Water Craft (PWC) Information
Personal Watercraft (PWC), often called Jet Ski’s or Wave Runners,
are the fastest growing form of boating in Maryland and across the
United States. There are over 12,000 registered PWC's in the state and
the Safety Education Division wants to make sure that all owners and
operators ride in a responsible manner. This
special safety section for “PWC”
provides information regarding the rules and regulations for riding in
Maryland as well as several safety tips to make your ride more
enjoyable. Remember, a PWC is a boat and must follow all the rules of
the road. The waterways are for everyone to enjoy so, please respect the
rights of others and practice common courtesy while riding.
Courtesy on the Water
The Chesapeake Bay is home to an array of boats and boaters. There are approximately 212,000 registered boats in the State which means everyone needs to be aware of their actions out on the water. Reckless boat operators can harm other people or property, and they take the fun out of boating for others. Learn more about courtesy on the water and do your part to make Maryland waters enjoyable for all users.
Annapolis Service Center Now on West Street
This Licensing and Registration Annapolis Service Center has moved from the Tawes State Office Building to 1804 West Street in Annapolis.
Online Services
Chesapeake Bay Hotline
Call 1-877-224-7229
to report any of the following- Boating accident or reckless activity
- Fish kill or algal bloom
- Floating debris that poses a hazard to navigation
- Illegal fishing activity
- Public sewer leak or overflow
- Oil or hazardous material spill
- Critical area or wetlands violation
- Suspicious or unusual activity