Wake-Boat Rules · No wake-surf-specific rule
Maryland Wakesurf & Wake-Boat Rules
Maryland has no statewide wakesurfing-specific law. General rules prohibit wakeboarding/wake surfing within 100 feet of bridge pilings, docks, shore, boats or people; require an observer (12+) and PFDs for towed riders; and permit towing only sunrise to sunset. Speed and no-wake zones are designated by area. No wake-surf-specific depth/acreage thresholds.
Maryland has no statewide wakesurfing-specific law. General rules prohibit wakeboarding/wake surfing within 100 feet of bridge pilings, docks, shore, boats or people; require an observer (12+) and PFDs for towed riders; and permit towing only sunrise to sunset. Speed and no-wake zones are designated by area. No wake-surf-specific depth/acreage thresholds.
Where a statewide rule applies, key provisions include operating at least 100 ft from shore.
Wake-boat rules change often and vary by individual lake. Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR) is the governing authority — confirm the current regulation before you ride. This summary is informational, not legal advice.
Source: Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Specifications reflect published figures and can change by model year — verify before purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
No wake-surf-specific rule. Maryland has no statewide wakesurfing-specific law. General rules prohibit wakeboarding/wake surfing within 100 feet of bridge pilings, docks, shore, boats or people; require an observer (12+) and PFDs for towed riders; and permit towing only sunrise to sunset. Speed and no-wake zones are designated by area. No wake-surf-specific depth/acreage thresholds.
Where Maryland's statewide rule applies, wake boats must operate at least 100 ft from shore.