Reporting Boating Alcohol Violations on the Susquehanna River Near York, PA

If you observe boating under the influence (BUI) or dangerous alcohol-related behavior on the Susquehanna River in York County, PA, contact the Pennsylvania Fish and Boat Commission (PFBC) — the primary enforcement authority.

Primary Contact

PFBC Northeast Region Office
2150-C Fischer Road, Pottsville, PA 17901
Phone: 570-628-3017
Online Violation Report: fishandboat.com/Forms/violation.htm

Local Waterways Conservation Officers (WCOs)

York County WCOs operate from the same Pottsville office:
Phone: 570-628-3017
Fax: 570-621-3163
Email: pfbcnoregion@pa.gov

What to Report

• Date, time, location (GPS coordinates, landmarks, river mile if known)
• Vessel description (type, color, registration number/PA numbers)
• Operator description and observed behavior (erratic operation, open containers, impaired movement)
• Photos/video (if safe and legal to obtain)
• Your contact info (optional but helpful for follow-up)

Pennsylvania BUI Law

• 0.08% BAC limit (same as DUI) for operators of any watercraft (motorized, sail, paddle)
• Implied consent for chemical testing
• Penalties: Fines ($500–$7,500), imprisonment (up to 2 yrs), boating privileges suspension (1–3 yrs)
• Enhanced penalties for BUI with minors aboard, accidents causing injury/death

Emergency Situations

If imminent danger (crash, injury, drowning), call 911 first. PFBC WCOs are sworn law enforcement officers with full arrest authority on PA waterways.