California 2021 2021-2022 Regular Session

California Assembly Bill AB1682 Amended / Bill

Filed 06/06/2022

                    Amended IN  Senate  June 06, 2022 Amended IN  Assembly  February 28, 2022 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20212022 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 1682Introduced by Assembly Members Boerner Horvath and WardJanuary 24, 2022 An act to amend Sections 650.1, 652.5, 650.1 and 655.2 of the Harbors and Navigation Code, relating to public safety. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 1682, as amended, Boerner Horvath. Vessels: public safety activities.(1) Existing law generally regulates the operation of vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the state. Existing law provides specified exemptions to the above-described provision, including for a vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and which is clearly identifiable as such.This bill would define subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state to include cities and counties.(2)Existing law reserves the use of distinctive blue lights to public safety vessels, as defined, engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities. Existing law prohibits the display of this blue light on vessels for other purposes.This bill would include a marine safety or lifeguard agency as entities that perform public safety activities authorized to use the above-described distinctive blue lights. The bill would define public safety vessels to include marine safety or lifeguard vessels.(3)(2) Existing law provides that an owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of 5 miles per hour in any portion of specified beach, swimming, or boat landing areas, not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations, is guilty of an infraction, as specified. Existing law exempts specified vessels from this provision.This bill would additionally exempt vessels vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels, as defined, and public safety vessels engaged in public safety activities, as defined, and personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone from the above-described provision.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY  Appropriation: NO  Fiscal Committee: NO  Local Program: NO Bill TextThe people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 650.1 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.(4) Ships lifeboats.(c) For purposes of this chapter, subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state includes cities and counties.SEC. 2.Section 652.5 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:652.5.(a)The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved for public safety vessels and may be displayed during the day or night whenever the vessel may be engaged in direct law enforcement activities, including, but not limited to, those activities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 663.7, or public safety activities conducted by a fire department, a fire protection district, or a marine safety or lifeguard agency, where identification of a public safety vessel is desirable or where necessary for safety reasons.(b)That light when used shall be in addition to prescribed lights and day signals required by law.(c)The display of these blue lights on vessels for other purposes is prohibited.(d)A vessel approaching, overtaking, being approached, or being overtaken by a moving public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or a vessel approaching a stationary public safety vessel displaying an illuminated blue light, shall immediately slow to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage only, shall alter its course, within its ability, so as not to inhibit or interfere with the operation of the public safety vessel, and shall proceed, unless otherwise directed by the operator of the public safety vessel, at the reduced speed until beyond the area of operation of the public safety vessel.(e)The operator of a cable ferry shall take whatever reasonable action is necessary to provide a clear course for a public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or both.(f)For purposes of this section, public safety vessel means a law enforcement, a fire department, a fire protection district, a marine safety, or a lifeguard vessel.SEC. 3.SEC. 2. Section 655.2 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:(A) A beach frequented by bathers.(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.(b) This section does not apply to both of the following:(1) Vessels Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels. vessels engaged in public safety activities.(2) Vessels Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660. 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:(1) Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.(2) Public safety activities include those conducted by law enforcement agencies, fire departments, fire protection districts, and marine safety and lifeguard agencies. public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.

 Amended IN  Senate  June 06, 2022 Amended IN  Assembly  February 28, 2022 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20212022 REGULAR SESSION Assembly Bill No. 1682Introduced by Assembly Members Boerner Horvath and WardJanuary 24, 2022 An act to amend Sections 650.1, 652.5, 650.1 and 655.2 of the Harbors and Navigation Code, relating to public safety. LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGESTAB 1682, as amended, Boerner Horvath. Vessels: public safety activities.(1) Existing law generally regulates the operation of vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the state. Existing law provides specified exemptions to the above-described provision, including for a vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and which is clearly identifiable as such.This bill would define subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state to include cities and counties.(2)Existing law reserves the use of distinctive blue lights to public safety vessels, as defined, engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities. Existing law prohibits the display of this blue light on vessels for other purposes.This bill would include a marine safety or lifeguard agency as entities that perform public safety activities authorized to use the above-described distinctive blue lights. The bill would define public safety vessels to include marine safety or lifeguard vessels.(3)(2) Existing law provides that an owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of 5 miles per hour in any portion of specified beach, swimming, or boat landing areas, not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations, is guilty of an infraction, as specified. Existing law exempts specified vessels from this provision.This bill would additionally exempt vessels vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels, as defined, and public safety vessels engaged in public safety activities, as defined, and personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone from the above-described provision.Digest Key Vote: MAJORITY  Appropriation: NO  Fiscal Committee: NO  Local Program: NO 

 Amended IN  Senate  June 06, 2022 Amended IN  Assembly  February 28, 2022

Amended IN  Senate  June 06, 2022
Amended IN  Assembly  February 28, 2022

 CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE 20212022 REGULAR SESSION

 Assembly Bill 

No. 1682

Introduced by Assembly Members Boerner Horvath and WardJanuary 24, 2022

Introduced by Assembly Members Boerner Horvath and Ward
January 24, 2022

 An act to amend Sections 650.1, 652.5, 650.1 and 655.2 of the Harbors and Navigation Code, relating to public safety. 

LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST

## LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL'S DIGEST

AB 1682, as amended, Boerner Horvath. Vessels: public safety activities.

(1) Existing law generally regulates the operation of vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the state. Existing law provides specified exemptions to the above-described provision, including for a vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and which is clearly identifiable as such.This bill would define subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state to include cities and counties.(2)Existing law reserves the use of distinctive blue lights to public safety vessels, as defined, engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities. Existing law prohibits the display of this blue light on vessels for other purposes.This bill would include a marine safety or lifeguard agency as entities that perform public safety activities authorized to use the above-described distinctive blue lights. The bill would define public safety vessels to include marine safety or lifeguard vessels.(3)(2) Existing law provides that an owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of 5 miles per hour in any portion of specified beach, swimming, or boat landing areas, not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations, is guilty of an infraction, as specified. Existing law exempts specified vessels from this provision.This bill would additionally exempt vessels vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels, as defined, and public safety vessels engaged in public safety activities, as defined, and personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone from the above-described provision.

(1) Existing law generally regulates the operation of vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the state. Existing law provides specified exemptions to the above-described provision, including for a vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and which is clearly identifiable as such.

This bill would define subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state to include cities and counties.

(2)Existing law reserves the use of distinctive blue lights to public safety vessels, as defined, engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities. Existing law prohibits the display of this blue light on vessels for other purposes.



This bill would include a marine safety or lifeguard agency as entities that perform public safety activities authorized to use the above-described distinctive blue lights. The bill would define public safety vessels to include marine safety or lifeguard vessels.



(3)



(2) Existing law provides that an owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of 5 miles per hour in any portion of specified beach, swimming, or boat landing areas, not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations, is guilty of an infraction, as specified. Existing law exempts specified vessels from this provision.

This bill would additionally exempt vessels vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels, as defined, and public safety vessels engaged in public safety activities, as defined, and personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone from the above-described provision.

## Digest Key

## Bill Text

The people of the State of California do enact as follows:SECTION 1. Section 650.1 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.(4) Ships lifeboats.(c) For purposes of this chapter, subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state includes cities and counties.SEC. 2.Section 652.5 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:652.5.(a)The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved for public safety vessels and may be displayed during the day or night whenever the vessel may be engaged in direct law enforcement activities, including, but not limited to, those activities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 663.7, or public safety activities conducted by a fire department, a fire protection district, or a marine safety or lifeguard agency, where identification of a public safety vessel is desirable or where necessary for safety reasons.(b)That light when used shall be in addition to prescribed lights and day signals required by law.(c)The display of these blue lights on vessels for other purposes is prohibited.(d)A vessel approaching, overtaking, being approached, or being overtaken by a moving public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or a vessel approaching a stationary public safety vessel displaying an illuminated blue light, shall immediately slow to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage only, shall alter its course, within its ability, so as not to inhibit or interfere with the operation of the public safety vessel, and shall proceed, unless otherwise directed by the operator of the public safety vessel, at the reduced speed until beyond the area of operation of the public safety vessel.(e)The operator of a cable ferry shall take whatever reasonable action is necessary to provide a clear course for a public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or both.(f)For purposes of this section, public safety vessel means a law enforcement, a fire department, a fire protection district, a marine safety, or a lifeguard vessel.SEC. 3.SEC. 2. Section 655.2 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:(A) A beach frequented by bathers.(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.(b) This section does not apply to both of the following:(1) Vessels Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels. vessels engaged in public safety activities.(2) Vessels Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660. 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:(1) Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.(2) Public safety activities include those conducted by law enforcement agencies, fire departments, fire protection districts, and marine safety and lifeguard agencies. public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.

The people of the State of California do enact as follows:

## The people of the State of California do enact as follows:

SECTION 1. Section 650.1 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.(4) Ships lifeboats.(c) For purposes of this chapter, subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state includes cities and counties.

SECTION 1. Section 650.1 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:

### SECTION 1.

650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.(4) Ships lifeboats.(c) For purposes of this chapter, subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state includes cities and counties.

650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.(4) Ships lifeboats.(c) For purposes of this chapter, subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state includes cities and counties.

650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.(4) Ships lifeboats.(c) For purposes of this chapter, subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state includes cities and counties.



650.1. (a) This chapter shall apply to vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of this state.

(b) This chapter, except those sections that expressly indicate otherwise, shall not apply to the following:

(1) Foreign vessels temporarily using waters subject to state jurisdiction.

(2) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels.

(3) A vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and that is clearly identifiable as such.

(4) Ships lifeboats.

(c) For purposes of this chapter, subdivision thereof or subdivision of the state includes cities and counties.





(a)The use of a distinctive blue light as prescribed by the department is reserved for public safety vessels and may be displayed during the day or night whenever the vessel may be engaged in direct law enforcement activities, including, but not limited to, those activities specified in subdivision (a) of Section 663.7, or public safety activities conducted by a fire department, a fire protection district, or a marine safety or lifeguard agency, where identification of a public safety vessel is desirable or where necessary for safety reasons.



(b)That light when used shall be in addition to prescribed lights and day signals required by law.



(c)The display of these blue lights on vessels for other purposes is prohibited.



(d)A vessel approaching, overtaking, being approached, or being overtaken by a moving public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or a vessel approaching a stationary public safety vessel displaying an illuminated blue light, shall immediately slow to a speed sufficient to maintain steerage only, shall alter its course, within its ability, so as not to inhibit or interfere with the operation of the public safety vessel, and shall proceed, unless otherwise directed by the operator of the public safety vessel, at the reduced speed until beyond the area of operation of the public safety vessel.



(e)The operator of a cable ferry shall take whatever reasonable action is necessary to provide a clear course for a public safety vessel operating with a siren or an illuminated blue light, or both.



(f)For purposes of this section, public safety vessel means a law enforcement, a fire department, a fire protection district, a marine safety, or a lifeguard vessel.



SEC. 3.SEC. 2. Section 655.2 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:(A) A beach frequented by bathers.(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.(b) This section does not apply to both of the following:(1) Vessels Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels. vessels engaged in public safety activities.(2) Vessels Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660. 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:(1) Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.(2) Public safety activities include those conducted by law enforcement agencies, fire departments, fire protection districts, and marine safety and lifeguard agencies. public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.

SEC. 3.SEC. 2. Section 655.2 of the Harbors and Navigation Code is amended to read:

### SEC. 3.SEC. 2.

655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:(A) A beach frequented by bathers.(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.(b) This section does not apply to both of the following:(1) Vessels Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels. vessels engaged in public safety activities.(2) Vessels Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660. 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:(1) Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.(2) Public safety activities include those conducted by law enforcement agencies, fire departments, fire protection districts, and marine safety and lifeguard agencies. public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.

655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:(A) A beach frequented by bathers.(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.(b) This section does not apply to both of the following:(1) Vessels Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels. vessels engaged in public safety activities.(2) Vessels Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660. 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:(1) Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.(2) Public safety activities include those conducted by law enforcement agencies, fire departments, fire protection districts, and marine safety and lifeguard agencies. public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.

655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:(A) A beach frequented by bathers.(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.(b) This section does not apply to both of the following:(1) Vessels Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels. vessels engaged in public safety activities.(2) Vessels Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660. 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:(1) Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.(2) Public safety activities include those conducted by law enforcement agencies, fire departments, fire protection districts, and marine safety and lifeguard agencies. public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.



655.2. (a) Every owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery is guilty of an infraction who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of five miles per hour in any portion of the following areas not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations:

(1) Within 100 feet of any person who is engaged in the act of bathing. A person engaged in the sport of water skiing shall not be considered as engaged in the act of bathing for the purposes of this section.

(2) Within 200 feet of any of the following:

(A) A beach frequented by bathers.

(B) A swimming float, diving platform, or lifeline.

(C) A way or landing float to which boats are made fast or that is being used for the embarkation or discharge of passengers.

(b) This section does not apply to both of the following:

(1) Vessels Vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels. vessels engaged in public safety activities.

(2) Vessels Public safety vessels engaged in direct law enforcement activities or public safety activities that are displaying the distinctive blue lights prescribed by subdivision (a) of Section 652.5.

(3) Personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone.

(c) The vessels described in subdivision (b) are also exempt from any locally imposed speed regulation adopted pursuant to Section 660. 660, but shall be operated in accordance with subdivision (c) of Section 655.7.

(d) For purposes of this section, the following terms have the following meanings:

(1) Clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessel means an authorized lifeguard water rescue vessel operated by or owned by a public agency.

(2) Public safety activities include those conducted by law enforcement agencies, fire departments, fire protection districts, and marine safety and lifeguard agencies. public agency sanctioned patrolling, traffic control, assisting disabled vessels, salvage operations, firefighting, providing medical assistance, search and rescue, and training.