do i need running lights on a 14 foot scull boat in the state of iowa?

Question

yes, i have a 3.5 horse motor on the boat..

Answer 1

For federal requirements, I don't think so however, state may require them though, contact the U.S. Coast Guard Aux. and get a free "Vessel Safety Check", they'll visit you, check out the boat, they are up on state regs, if the boat passes the inspection, you get a USCG decal, It's all voluntary, if your boat is lacking in any area, they will give you a list as to what you need to pass the inspection, This is a voluntary courtesy exam that is there to make sure that you are safe out there on the water, no violations are ever given, no tickets, no information about your boat is given to ANY authority, It's FREE and their for YOUR ASKING (YOUR TAX DOLLARS HARD AT WORK) take advantage of it, it's put in place for YOUR SAFETY !

Answer 2

14FT and under are not required to have red and green navigation lights but are required to have the Anchor or at drift white light. If I was to night fish or spend nights on the water I would have a portable running light any way. especially on large lake. But I am retired Navy and that's just my view. But I know the rules of the road and I have a 14 ft boat with out running lights but keep a portable one in the boat in case.

Answer 3

When you have a motor on a boat ,you have to follow the rules for a motor boat, which include registration and proper safety equipment including running lights.

I did further research, if you are not running at night you not need running lights. PWCs are not allowed to run at night, so do not have to have running lights. I would want some kind of lights if I were sculling t night.but, under 16 feet, they are not required.

Answer 4

Only if you don't wish to be ran over at night. Generally speaking, any boat that floats and is powered by any other than oars is required to meet federal guidlines for boats.