Boat Landings: Open Or Closed?

Boat landings are open to the public in many states across the US, including South Carolina, Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Some boat landings are open year-round, while others are subject to seasonal changes and local regulations. It's important to check with local authorities and visit official websites for the most up-to-date information on boat landing access and any applicable rules or restrictions.

Boat landing rules and regulations

Boat landings are open to the public year-round, although some may have restricted access during certain times. For example, the Folly Beach Boat Landing in Charleston County had restricted access on December 30 and 31 due to a drone show. Public water accesses in Minnesota are open 24 hours a day unless posted otherwise.

Boat landings are typically self-managed facilities that are not always staffed. As such, caution should be exercised at all public boat ramps, as tides, currents, and natural conditions can affect the usage of ramps. Serious drop-offs may be present at low tide, so it is important to check the status of a specific access point before launching a boat.

There are several rules and regulations that must be followed when using boat landings and launching facilities. These rules are in place to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all visitors. Here are some general guidelines:

• No tying up or leaving boats near ramps, floats, or docks unless loading/unloading or where allowed by official notice.
• No camping or overnight stays.
• Park wheeled vehicles, including trailers, only in designated areas.
• No fires except in designated fireplaces.
• No alcohol or controlled substances. Disorderly conduct, including indecent acts, intoxication, or coarse language, is prohibited.
• Do not damage any part of the facility, including plants and natural conditions.
• No discharging of wastes, including soaps and detergents. No washing of vehicles, boats, or laundry.
• No storage of boats, trailers, vehicles, equipment, or other property at the launching facility.
• No swimming from docks, floats, ramps, or "no swimming" areas.
• Pet owners must clean up after their pets.
• No posting of unauthorised advertisements or notices.

Some specific regulations for boat landings in Charleston County, South Carolina, include:

• A litter control program called "Pack it in, Pack it out!". Visitors must take all their trash with them when they leave.
• Tying to a floating dock for more than 15 consecutive minutes is prohibited.
• Alcohol and illegal drugs are prohibited.
• Swimming is not allowed.
• Parking is limited to active boat landing users only and is not for storing, loading, or transporting construction equipment.
• No abandoning or parking vehicles or trailers for more than 72 consecutive hours.
• No commercial transactions or activities.
• No using landing areas for storing, loading, or transporting construction materials without a special permit.
• No obstructing the boat launch or "make ready" lane with any vehicle or trailer for more than 15 minutes.
• No discharging of firearms.

Boat landing passes and registration

Boat landings are open to the public on a year-round basis, but there are some rules and regulations to keep in mind. These vary depending on location, so it's important to check the specific requirements for the area you plan to visit.

In Charleston County, for example, the Park & Recreation Commission maintains 19 public boat landings that are self-managed and not always staffed. These landings are open year-round, but caution should be exercised as tides, currents, and natural conditions can affect the usage of ramps. Some landings may have drop-offs at low tide, making them unsuitable for launching standard-size watercraft. It's important to refer to the Boat Landing Map for specific information on each landing.

In Wisconsin, all citizens have the right to boat on navigable waters, and the state has a large number of inland lakes, rivers, and Great Lakes shoreline. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has created a statewide inventory of over 2,000 public boat access sites, and upkeep for these launches is provided through user fees.

In Madison, Wisconsin, a daily or annual permit is required year-round to launch a motorboat, sailboat, iceboat, canoe, kayak, or ATV at designated sites. The permit should be displayed on the inside driver's side windshield and is valid at launch sites throughout Dane County. It's important to note that parking rules vary by launch area, and violators may be subject to citation.

Additionally, some locations may have specific requirements or restrictions. For example, the Folly Beach Boat Landing in Charleston County may have restricted access during certain events or set-up for special occasions. It's always a good idea to check for any updates or changes before heading to a boat landing.

Boat landing safety

Choosing a Boat Landing Site

When selecting a boat landing site, it is important to consider the natural conditions and how they may impact your ability to launch or dock your boat. For example, tides and currents can affect the usability of ramps, with some sites experiencing serious drop-offs at low tide. Always check the status of your chosen landing site before your journey and be cautious when entering or exiting the water.

Transferring Between Vessels

Safe transfer procedures are crucial, especially when transferring between a boat and an offshore structure, such as a wind turbine. Ensure you are properly trained in boat landing procedures, including how to safely enter and exit a vessel and how to use fall arrest equipment. Always wear a valid life jacket and ensure life rafts are properly attached to the vessel in case of an emergency.

Structural Integrity and Equipment Design

The structural integrity of boat landings and the design of transfer vessels are critical factors in ensuring safety. Before using a boat landing, ensure that it has been properly maintained and is free from defects. Adequate risk assessments should consider factors such as the trim and draft of the vessel and potential relative motion between vessels.

Communication and Procedures

Effective communication between crew members is essential for safety. Clear instructions should be provided to passengers during the transfer process to avoid confusion or panic in the event of an emergency. Established procedures, such as those outlined in the GWO Sea Survival module, should be followed, and all personnel should be adequately trained to carry out their roles.

Local Regulations and Etiquette

Familiarise yourself with the rules and regulations of the specific boat landing site you are using. These may include etiquette guidelines, such as packing out what you pack in, and parking and access information. Be mindful of any fees or access restrictions that may be in place, and always follow the instructions of the managing authority.

Boat landing locations

Boat landings are open to the public, although this may vary depending on location and season. Boat landings are open year-round in Charleston County, for example, but landings in Minnesota are open in the spring when the Department determines that conditions are appropriate. The docks are removed late in the fall, depending on the weather.

There are also online maps and guides to help locate boat landings and ramps. For instance, BoatRamp.com provides a map of all boat ramps, while Discover Boating provides an interactive map to find nearby locations for boating. These maps and guides often include reviews, directions, and photos to help users find the best boat ramps in their area.

Boat landing hours

For example, in Charleston County, South Carolina, the Park and Recreation Commission maintains 19 public boat landings that are open throughout the year. Similarly, in Wisconsin, there are over 2,000 identified public boat access sites and over 100 developed shore fishing sites available for residents to use.

On the other hand, some boat landings have specific hours of operation. For instance, in Miami-Dade, Florida, boat ramps are open daily from 6 am to 8 pm. Additionally, certain boat landings may have restricted access during special events or holidays, such as the Folly Beach Boat Landing in Charleston County, which had limited access on December 30 and 31 for the New Year's Eve drone show.

It's always a good idea to check with local authorities or visit official websites to get the most up-to-date information on boat landing hours and any restrictions that may be in place.

Frequently asked questions