Mandatory Life Jacket Requirements

With vibrant, changing foliage as a colorful backdrop to any adventure during the fall season, the lure of a relaxing paddle along a scenic river, stream, or lake is hard to resist. To ensure that boaters return home safely, the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) reminds boaters to always wear a life jacket.

Through April 30, boaters are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket at all times while underway or at anchor on boats less than 16 feet in length or on any kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. The requirement applies to all Pennsylvania waters.

Sudden cold-water im...