So my dad just picked up a free boat. One of those little plastic jobs around 9 or 10' long. He's planning on getting an electric motor for it. Or maybe even just oars. Does anyone know if there are special regulations on smaller boats like this? If there's no gas enging or no engine at all? Does it still need MC numbers? And if so, how do you get those if there is no title?
If it has any type of motor, even electric, then it needs numbers. For years I used a 12' john boat with an electric trolling motor and never had it registered until I was stopped by the DNR one day and thats what they told me. I told them I didn't think I needed one because there was no gas motor (like my dad claimed was the law) but they told me it didnt matter what type of motor. I'm not sure if size matters however…… well at least in this instance anyways. 😈
Watercraft – Registration Required
All watercraft on Michigan waters, including privately-owned lakes and waterways, must be registered except:
– watercraft 16 ft. or less, propelled by oars or paddles, and not used for rental or commercial purposes,
– non-motorized canoes and kayaks not used for rental or commercial purposes, rafts, surfboards, sailboards, and swim floats, regardless of length,
– watercraft registered in another state and used only temporarily in Michigan.
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