NPS Tightens Jet Ski Speed Rules at Gulf Islands National Seashore

The National Park Service has updated the rules for using personal watercraft, like jet skis, at Gulf Islands National Seashore in Florida. The main change is a reduction in the distance from the shore where operators must maintain a “flat wake” speed. This means the zone where you must drive slowly enough to avoid creating a large wake is now closer to the land.

Why it matters: This is a modest regulatory update that clarifies existing safety and conservation measures. By shrinking the flat wake zone, the agency aims to reduce the risk of collisions and shoreline erosion caused by boat wakes in shallow areas. It also removes ambiguity about where watercraft are banned, ensuring that the closures at West Petit Bois Island and the ferry pier are legally solid rather than just informal practices.

Who it affects

• Personal watercraft operators visiting Gulf Islands National Seashore

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This action was taken by the National Park Service and published in the Federal Register; readers should consult the full text of the rule for specific geographic coordinates and speed limits.

Agency: Interior Department, National Park Service
Source: Federal Register — read the official document