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Boating Program

Kayaks and Sailboat near Blake Island State Parks The waters of Washington state are a national and international resource. Recreationally and commercially, these waters contribute to the well-being of residents of the Pacific Northwest. To help maintain this valuable resource, it is essential that all users of these waters, including recreational boaters, recognize their role in keeping these waters clean. Additionally, it's important that boaters operate their vessels in a safe manner to protect themselves and others from needless accidents and injuries.

Boating in Washington State The State Parks boating program promotes enjoyable, safe, environmentally responsible recreation on Washington's waters in partnership with government, business, educators, citizen action groups and the boating public. Program activities are guided by a citizen advisory committee and, where possible, all boating safety activities occur at the county and city levels. The program provides assistance in training, equipment and materials to local groups in carrying out a network of boating safety education and law enforcement activities. Washington State Coast Guard On a statewide basis, the program conducts a targeted boating safety information program intended to increase the safety awareness of specific groups of boaters. The program also works with the U.S. Coast Guard and other states to ensure reciprocity of boating regulations for ease of travel by boaters when crossing state and national boundaries.


 Important Information

Boater Education Card
Learn how to get a boater education card, requirement dates, class schedules and more.
Pumpout Grant Program
Learn how to apply for a grant to install or renovate a pumpout and dump station.
Pumpout Information
Learn how to use different types of boat sewage pumpouts, find ways you can help keep this equipment functioning properly and find out why it is important to use this equipment when you are boating.
Pumpout Locations
A map of Washington state shows locations of pumpout facilities usually having both pumpout equipment and dump stations for port-a-potties.
Boating FAQ
This section has the most frequently asked questions about boating safety rules in Washington.
The Adventures in Boating Washington Handbook
The publication has all of the rules that apply to boating in Washington state, as well as information about safe and responsible boating.
Important Links
Find the current weather and tides, or connect to other boating organizations.

  Mandatory Boater Education
Graphic of the new Education Card featuring the agency Centennial logo and a lifejacket.
Card Application (PDF Download)
Course Options
Getting a Card
Class Schedules (PDF Download)
Frequently Asked Questions
Law Background

2007 Washington State Boaters Survey
Survey narrative
1.2MB PDF
Survey appendices
412kb PDF
Información en Español
Cómo prepararse para navegar con más seguridad
1.6MB PDF

General Boating Information
   Boating Home
   Boating Handbook
   Boating FAQ
   Pumpout Information
   Pumpout Locations
   Important Links

Moorage Information
   Annual Moorage Permits
   Moorage Locations
   Moorage FAQ
   Rules & Regulations

Watercraft Information
   Annual Launch Permits
   Launch Locations
   Launch FAQ
   Trailering & Launching

Safety Tips
Allow your blowers to run for at least four minutes after fueling before you turn on the engine.

Public Information
Boating safety report to legislature (1.2 MB)


Boating in Washington State

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