Water Skiing in Washington State: Legal, Sunrise–Sunset + Weekend Nights, Rules Apply

Yes, water skiing is legal in Washington. Regulations are set by RCW 79A.60 and WAC 308-93 (Parks & Recreation Commission).

Allowed Hours

• Daily: Sunrise to sunset.
• Friday, Saturday, Sunday nights: 10:00 PM – 6:00 AM (with adequate boat lighting).
• Weekday nights (Mon–Thu): Prohibited.

Mandatory Rules

1. Life jacket (USCG approved) — worn by skier at all times.
2. Observer (≥16 yrs) — dedicated spotter facing skier, flag displayed when skier down.
3. 100-ft clearance from swimmers, divers, other vessels, docks.
4. No excessive noise/disturbance near shorelines, marinas, campgrounds.
5. Boat capacity — not exceeded (skier counts as passenger).
6. No skiing in: designated swim areas, marina channels, within 200 ft of "no wake" buoys, marine preserves.

Popular Spots

• Lake Washington, Lake Union, Lake Tapps, Lake Chelan.
• Puget Sound (sheltered inlets), Hood Canal.
• Columbia River (Wanapum, Priest Rapids pools).
• San Juan Islands (protected bays).

PWC (Jet Ski) Towing

Allowed if PWC rated for 3 persons (driver, observer, skier). Same rules apply.

State Parks

Allowed in designated areas; day-use fee + launch fee. Check park-specific rules.

Marine Preserves

Prohibited (e.g., Edmonds Underwater Park, San Juan County preserves).

Carry the Washington State Boating Safety Guide (free PDF) aboard.