Sec. 08.04.08.03. JetPack Livery Operations

A. In addition to Regulation .01 of this chapter, a JetPack Vessel livery owner shall:

(1) Prominently display the jetpack vessel regulations in COMAR 08.18.40;

(2) Advise renters and riders to read COMAR 08.18.40 as applicable;

(3) Within 30 days of the effective date of COMAR 08.18.40, add to the rental contract a statement that the renter and rider have read and understand the jetpack vessel regulations; and

(4) Retain the statement signed by the renter and rider for at least 30 days and make it available to the Department upon request.

B. A jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner's agent, or employee may not permit any jetpack vessel to depart from the owner’s premises unless the operator is an agent or employee of the owner that is trained and certified in the operation of jetpack vessels.

C. The jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner’s agent, or employee shall operate the jetpack vessel for all rentals.

D. A jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner’s agent, or employee that operates a jetpack vessel on tidal and navigable waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States Coast Guard shall possess a valid United States Coast Guard license for the operation of an uninspected passenger vessel as defined in 46 U.S.C. §2101(42)(B).

E. A jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner's agent, or employee may not lease or rent a jetpack vessel unless the rider is 14 years old or older.

F. A jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner’s agent, or employee may not operate or give permission to operate a jetpack vessel on the waters of the State unless the rescue vessel used in livery operations has an international orange flag 12 inches x 12 inches in size mounted on a pole that is 24 inches above the water. The flag must be visible, and remain visible, until the rider is safely secured on the rescue vessel and out of the jet propelled device.

G. A jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner's agent, or employee may not operate or give permission to operate a jetpack vessel on the waters of the State unless the rider is trained in the proper use of the jetpack vessel by the manufacturer of the vessel or its authorized representative.

H. A jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner's agent, or employee may not operate or give permission to operate a jetpack vessel on the waters of the State in Navigational channels, (federal or State) marked or unmarked channels.

I. Initiation of Operation.

(1) A jetpack vessel livery owner, livery owner’s agent, or employee may initiate operation of the jetpack vessel in an area of water with a depth of no less than 4 feet.

(2) After operation has been initiated, the operator shall move to an area of water with a depth of no less than 6 feet.

J. All jetpack vessel livery observers shall possess a valid First Aid and CPR Certificate.