Operating/Renting Non-Motorized Vessels in Tennessee
Tennessee Paddlesports Laws
Canoes, Kayaks, Standup paddleboards
- An approved, wearable life jacket for each person must be readily accessible. Throw cushions do not meet this requirement.
- Life jacket(s) must be on board, not attached by a line or leash.
- Persons under 13 years old must wear a life jacket while underway. Drifting is considered underway.
- All paddle craft must be able to exhibit a white light or lantern after sunset or during times of restricted visibility.
- Boater’s state registration card must be on board if the boat is propelled by a motor or a trolling motor.
- A fishing license is required by all persons 13 years or older assisting or attempting to take fish.
- Do not litter. It is unlawful to throw or sink litter from a boat. In the event that a boat turns over, all contents must be retrieved.
- It is unlawful to use or be in possession of drugs or controlled substances while boating or paddling. Use or possession of alcohol by individuals who are underage is prohibited.
- No person shall operate or interfere with the safe operation of any motorboat or vessel.
- All boats are subject to inspection.
- All navigation rules apply.
- Keep a proper lookout at all times.
OTHER HELPFUL HINTS:
- Inflatable belt pack life jackets need to be worn with the device in front of the body, not turned to the back side of the body.
- Inflatable life jackets are not approved for anyone under 16 years old.
- Do not overload your boat. Other rules, regulations, and laws may apply.
Non-Motorized Vessel Outfitter Permits
TWRA is now taking permit applications for paddle craft rental operations.
An NMV permit is required for any entity (business, joint venture, individual, etc.) that leases or rents non-motorized vessels (NMV) for non-commercial use by the public on the waters of Tennessee.
The only exceptions are for a commercial NMV outfitter operating with a permit issued by the U.S. Forest Service on waters in and adjacent to the Cherokee National Forest, a commercial outfitter operating at a lake or pond wholly contained within the boundaries of any property owned or operated by the TN Department of Environment and Conservation Agency and any state governmental entity.
An operating permit is effective for one year from January 1 through December 31 of each year. All operating permit renewals shall be filed with the TWRA between October 1 and December 15 of the operating year.
Each application shall include, among other information, the following information for each applicant.
- The number of vessels owned by the commercial NMV outfitter that is available for lease or rent.
- The waterways of the state on which the applicant intends to operate if known.
- Any public access areas the applicant intends to utilize.
- Estimated months of operations.
- Tennessee Secretary of State control number, if applicable.
- A copy of the applicant’s business license.
- A copy of the applicant’s Department of Revenue Certificate of Registration.
- Proof of liability insurance.
- Designated representative for the applicant.
Operating permits may be transferred upon written notification to the TWRA of the date of transfer, the name of the new business owner, and the new designated representative. Transfer notifications must be submitted before the date of transfer.
In order for a commercial NMV outfitter to operate, they must meet these criteria:
- Possess a valid operating permit issued by the TWRA
- Maintain the following records:
- Outfitters shall not lease or rent to an individual less than 16 years of age unless the individual is accompanied by someone at least 18 years of age.
- Number and type of NMV leased or rented each day
- The public access and body of water utilized by an NMV each day, if known
- Number of accidents and/or casualties involving the use of a commercial outfitter’s NVM
- Number of water rescues each day involving a commercial NMV outfitter’s vessel
