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128 River Road, Hendersonville, TN 37075 (615) 826-BOAT (2628)
Tennessee is one of the nation's leading states offering recreational waterways, and most "Volunteer State" residents will at some time take advantage of this tremendous opportunity. To help keep your outing safe, enjoyable and "a day to remember" there are some things to consider before you go boating in Tennessee.
Enforcement
It is the responsibility of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency to enforce and administer the provisions of the "Tennessee Boating Safety Act." Enforcement officers of the Agency are on the water to assist boaters as well as to enforce laws and to provide control when necessary. Every officer of the Agency has the authority to stop and board any vessel subject to the State Boating Act. They may issue citations or, when necessary, they may arrest, on sight, without warrant, any person they see violating any provisions of the Act. Most Agency vessels may be recognized by the orange and green stripes near the bow and the words WILDLIFE RESOURCES on the sides; however, unmarked vessels are also used. Boaters who are signaled to stop must do so immediately and maneuver in such a way that the officer may come along side or come aboard. TWRA officers monitor marine radio channel 17 and can also be contacted through the regional TWRA dispatcher at the toll-free number. Boating Under The Influence It is unlawful to operate any sail or powered vessel while under the influence of intoxicants or drugs. Here are some important facts to consider. Implied Consent All persons operating a sail or powered vessel have given their implied consent to chemical tests to determine the alcohol or drug content of their blood. Failure to consent to testing is a separate offense and may result in suspension of vessel operating privileges for six months. Presumption of Guilt A vessel operator whose BAC tests show .08% or greater by weight, of alcohol shall constitute a violation of this statute and is presumed under the influence and his or her ability to operate a vessel is impaired. Blood-Alcohol Test Required Blood-alcohol content may be taken from all operators involved in an accident where death or serious injury occurred. Penalties Conviction for operating under the influence will result in fines of up to $2,500 on the first offense, $2,500 on the second offense and $5,000 for the third offense. A jail sentence of 11 months and 29 days may also be imposed for any conviction and operating privileges may be suspended from one to ten years. Additional federal penalties may also be charged.
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