Owning a dock on a Texas lake brings with it a world of fun—but also a few important responsibilities. Whether you’re hosting friends for a boat day, launching a jet ski from your dock, or just tying off your kayak, it’s essential to understand the boating laws that apply to you and your guests.
Here’s a breakdown of key boating rules and safety regulations every dock owner in Texas should know—so you can stay legal, safe, and lake-ready.
Boating Safety Education Requirements
In Texas, anyone born on or after September 1, 1993, must complete a Boater Education Course to operate:
- A personal watercraft (PWC)
- A boat with a motor over 15 horsepower
- A sailboat over 14 feet
This includes teens, young adults, and visitors using your equipment. If your family or guests plan to take out a boat from your dock, make sure they’ve taken the required course—or you could face a fine.
Courses can be taken online through the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and are inexpensive and fast to complete.
Age Restrictions for Operators
Age matters when it comes to boating in Texas. Children under 13 years old may not operate a motorboat over 15 horsepower or any PWC unless supervised on board by someone at least 18 who meets all legal requirements.
This is especially important for dock owners who allow kids or guests to use PWCs, boats, or rental gear launched from their dock.
Life Jacket Laws
Texas law requires that:
- All children under 13 years old must wear a S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on a vessel under 26 feet.
- There must be a readily accessible life jacket for each person on board—no matter their age.
- PWCs (jet skis, Sea-Doos, etc.) require that everyone wear a life jacket at all times.
Make it a habit to check life jackets before every outing. Keep extras stored neatly on your dock so you’re always ready.
Speed, Wake, and Distance Rules
Even if you’re not the one behind the wheel, you’re still responsible for educating guests about safe practices near your dock. In Texas:
- Maintain idle speed within 50 feet of another vessel, dock, swimmer, or shoreline.
- Respect no-wake zones, especially near residential docks.
- Avoid excessive noise or speeding in quiet coves or close to anchored boats.
If your dock is in a high-traffic area, consider signage or bumpers to protect your setup and help educate boaters.
Dock Lighting and Visibility
For safety and legal compliance, it’s important that your dock is clearly visible—especially at night:
- Install dock lighting to help boaters see the structure from a distance.
- Use reflective markers if your dock extends far into the water.
- If you have a floating dock or platform, ensure it’s secured properly and marked clearly to avoid nighttime collisions.
EZ Dock Texas offers modular docks that support lighting accessories and safety upgrades designed for visibility and compliance.
Alcohol and Boating
Texas law treats boating under the influence (BUI) the same as driving while intoxicated (DWI). The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.08%, and penalties include:
- Fines up to $2,000
- Jail time
- Possible loss of boating and driving privileges
If you’re hosting guests on your dock, encourage responsible drinking and have a designated boat operator if alcohol is involved.
Boat Registration and Documentation
All motorized boats and PWCs in Texas must be:
- Titled and registered
- Displaying valid registration decals
- Carrying proof of ownership or registration while in use
If you’re allowing others to launch from your dock, make sure their vessels are properly registered.
Being a Responsible Dock Owner
Beyond legal compliance, dock owners play an important role in maintaining safe lake environments:
- Post basic boating rules where they’re easy to see
- Store gear like life jackets and paddles neatly and safely
- Keep your dock well-maintained and slip-resistant
- Educate young boaters and guests on how to stay safe
Stay Legal, Safe, & Ready.
Texas boating laws are designed to protect everyone on the water—including you, your guests, and nearby boaters. Staying informed is a big part of being a responsible dock owner.
Looking to improve your dock with safety features like slip-resistant surfaces, lighting, and modular storage?
EZ Dock Texas can help you build a dock that’s safe, legal, and perfect for lake life. Visit EZ Dock Texas to get started or follow us on Facebook for boating tips and dock upgrade ideas.
