Boat Safe--Boat Sober


Iowa law prohibits anyone from boating while intoxicated (BWI). This includes the operation of any vessel or manipulation of any water skis, a surfboard, or similar device while under the influence of alcohol; marijuana; a narcotic, hypnotic, or other drug; or any combination of these substances. Alcohol and drugs cause impaired balance, blurred vision, poor coordination, impaired judgment, and slower reaction time.
Iowa law states that a person is considered to be boating while intoxicated (BWI) if he or she:

  • Is under the influence of alcohol or other drug or a combination of such substances or…
  • Has a blood, breath, or urine alcohol concentration of 0.10% or more or…
  • Has any amount of a controlled substance present in his or her person, as measured in blood or urine

First Offense: A Serious Misdemeanor
A serious misdemeanor can result in the following punishments:
  • Imprisonment in the county jail for at least 48 hours.
  • Assessment of a fine up to $1,000.
  • Loss of boat operating privileges for one year.
  • Assignment to a substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a course for drinking drivers.

Second Offense: An Aggravated Misdemeanor
An aggravated misdemeanor can result in the following punishments:
  • Imprisonment in the county jail or community-based correctional facility for at least seven days.
  • Assessment of a $1,500 to $5,000 fine.
  • Loss of boat operating privileges for two years.
  • Assignment to a substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a course for drinking drivers.

Third Offense: A Class "D" Felony
A class "D" felony can result in the following punishments:
  • Imprisonment in the county jail for 30 days to one year.
  • Assessment of a $2,500 to $7,500 fine.
  • Loss of boat operating privileges for six years.
  • Assignment to a substance abuse evaluation and treatment, and a course for drinking drivers.

Consequences of Refusing to Test
Refusing to submit to a breath or chemical test can result in a $500 fine and a one year suspension of boat operating privileges.
If the offender, during the second offense, refuses to submit to a test, a $1,000 fine will be assigned plus suspension of boat operating privileges.
Third-time offenders will receive a $2,000 fine and suspension of boat operating privileges.


For more information, contact
Iowa Department of Natural Resources
Des Moines, IA
515/281-5918


http://www.iowadnr.gov

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