Does the requirement for boating safety education apply to all waters in Virginia?
Answer It applies to public waters of the Commonwealth. This includes the river systems (both fresh and tidal water), the Virginia portion of the Chesapeake Bay, waters up to 3 miles off the Virginia coast, the Virginia portion of any lakes shared with an adjoining state, and most of the lakes wholly located in Virginia. It should be noted, however, that there are some lakes in Virginia that are not public (Lake Caroline and Lake Monticello for example immediately come to mind) and the requirement would not apply on those lakes. Boaters should check with private lake authorities to determine if there are requirements for the particular private lake. The law also does not apply to private lakes and ponds on personal property.
