Children's Life Jackets - Minnesota
In Minnesota, children 10 years of age and under are required to wear a U.S. Coast Guard approved life jacket while underway on a recreational boat of any length.
The USCG also requires the life vest or life jacket to be in good working condition and fit the child properly. There are exceptions to this state regulations:
1. Children who are below the top deck or in an enclosed cabin
2. Children aboard passenger vessels being operated by a licensed captain
3. Children engaged in swimming or diving activities from an anchored boat
It is primarily the responsibility of the parents to ensure the children's safety by requiring the use of life jackets or life vests; your boat insurance company and the USCG will still expect the Minnesota state regulations to be followed.
