Private Boats

General Information

There are no size restrictions on private boats. Boats must be BIA rated or in the judgment of lake staff be seaworthy.

All applicable safety equipment must accompany the vessel (flotation devices (life jackets), fire extinguishers, etc.)

Per State regulation, all recreational vessels less than 16 feet in length, including canoes and kayaks, must carry a Type I, II, III or V wearable personal flotation device for each person on board. Requirements for vessels 16 feet or longer are a life jacket for each person on board, plus one throwable flotation device (a Type IV cushion or ring buoy).

Anyone under 12 years of age must wear a life jacket at all times while underway.

All boats with motors must have a current CF registration number.

Boats shall not exceed the posted speed limits.

Dogs are NOT permitted on boats.

Maximum number of people allowed per boat depends on the size of the boat and shall not exceed the manufacturer's rating.

All private boats (including canoes and kayaks) must purchase a private boat use permit for each day.

No private boats are permitted on Upper Otay or Barrett.

Jet Boats

All vessels are required to have proper muffling that meets State noise standards.

Jet boats shall not be louder than 82 decibels.

Personal Watercraft (Jetskis, Waverunners, etc.)

Personal watercraft (Jetskis, Waverunners, etc.) are permitted on El Capitan only, and only in the jetski area by the dam unless they are towing someone, then they are permitted in the front bay. To tow someone, the PWC must be rated for three persons.

Catamarans

Catamarans are permitted during the general recreation season at City Lakes under the same conditions applicable to all other accepted craft.

Sailboats

Sailboats of all classes shall be permitted during normal operating hours except those vessels considered unstable or easily capsized.

Canoes and Kayaks

Canoes and kayaks are permitted on days the reserviors are open for fishing.

Inflatables

Inflatable boats with the following characteristics are permitted during the general recreation season at City Lakes under the same conditions applicable to all other accepted craft:

• Discernible bow and stern (as opposed to life rafts)
• Rigid floor/floorboards
• Multiple air chambers (at least three)
• Heavy duty material/construction
• USCG Approval/Rating