Tennessee Boating Laws: What Every Nashville Boater Needs to Know

Tennessee has straightforward boating laws, but violating them can mean fines, impoundment, or worse. Before you launch on Percy Priest or Old Hickory this season, here's what you need to know.

Boat Registration

All motorized vessels used on Tennessee waters must be registered with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency (TWRA). Registration must be renewed annually. Display the registration decal on both sides of the bow. Penalties for unregistered vessels start at $50 and increase from there.

Life Jackets

• One Coast Guard-approved life jacket required for every person on board
• Children 12 and under must wear a life jacket at all times while the vessel is underway
• Throwable Type IV device required on vessels 16 ft and longer
• Life jackets must be in good condition and accessible — not buried in a storage compartment

Boating Under the Influence (BUI)

Tennessee has strict BUI enforcement, especially on Percy Priest and Old Hickory on summer weekends. The legal limit is 0.08% BAC — same as driving. First offense: up to 11 months 29 days in jail, $2,500 fine, loss of boating privileges. TWRA water patrol is active and takes BUI seriously.

Age Requirements for Operating a Vessel

• Under 12: Cannot operate a motorboat without adult supervision
• 12-15: Can operate a motorboat up to 15HP without supervision
• Under 26 born after January 1, 1989: Must have a Tennessee Boating Safety Certificate

No-Wake Zones

No-wake zones are enforced near marinas, swim areas, and launch ramps on all Tennessee lakes. On Percy Priest, these zones are marked with buoys. Violating no-wake zones carries fines and is one of the leading causes of accidents near marinas.

Navigation Lights

Required from sunset to sunrise and in restricted visibility. White stern light visible 360 degrees, red and green bow lights. Running without proper lights is a significant fine and safety hazard.

Sound Devices

All vessels must carry a whistle, horn, or other sound-producing device audible at 0.5 nautical miles. Required by law, costs $5.

Boat Insurance

Tennessee does not legally require boat insurance, but your lender will if you finance. Given repair costs and liability exposure of a lake accident, going without coverage is a significant risk. Most homeowners policies have some boat coverage — check your limits carefully.

A Note on Wake Boats

As of 2025, no specific wake boat restrictions have been enacted on Percy Priest or Old Hickory, but this is an evolving area nationally. Practice responsible wake boating — stay 200 ft from shore, other vessels, and swimmers when running surf mode.

Shopping for a boat and want to talk through what's right for your family? Visit us at 3622 Central Pike, Hermitage or call (629) 245-2628.