New boating law takes effect July 1

New education requirements in effect July 1 for some boaters in Minnesota

ST. PAUL — Beginning July 1, more people who operate motorboats or personal watercrafts on Minnesota waters must obtain a valid watercraft operator’s permit. The updated requirements, passed into law in 2023, are intended to make boating safer by ensuring people operating motorized watercraft know the rules and are properly trained. Initially, the law applies to: People who were born after June 30, 2004, and are age 12 or older. Anyone who wish…

New boating law takes effect July 1

ST. CLOUD — Starting July 1, some adults and teens will need a watercraft operator’s permit to operate motorized boats, including jet skis and other personal watercraft, Stearns County reminded residents in a news release. The requirement is a part of a new state law, which was written to which is designed to “make boating safer by ensuring everyone operating a motorized watercraft knows the rules and is properly trained,” according to the Minne…