In the summer time, it is important that boaters remember that Minnesota’s DWI laws apply to boats as well. If you are operating a boat with a blood alcohol level over .08, you will be charged with BWI (boating while intoxicated).
Since it is usually a DNR agent that makes the stop and arrest, I am often asked if a DNR agent can give a person for a ticket for DWI. The answer is yes. Minnesota laws give authority to its DNR agents to enforce rules that pertain to Minnesota’s waterways, trails, and wildlife. So if a DNR agent is making a legal stop or investigation in the enforcement of those rules, the DNR agent does have authority to make an arrest.
People with a driver’s license restricting them from drinking alcohol (commonly known as the B-card), who drink alcohol on a boat can lose their driver’s license as a result of violating the restriction. This is important to remember because the rules pertaining to stops by DNR agents on the waterways are much more lax than rules applying to policemen on Minnesota roads.
As Minnesotans enjoy the summer on Minnesota’s lakes and waterways, it is important to abide by the DNR’s rules for operating water craft. To review the Minnesota DNR boating rules and regulations, click here.
If you have legal questions concerning a Minnesota BWI or boating incident, please call.
-John Scott
612-840-8961
