When is it illegal to anchor your boat?

Anchoring your boat is prohibited in designated no anchoring zones primarily to ensure safety and protect the environment. These zones are established in areas where anchoring can cause hazards to navigation, damage to underwater habitats, or obstruct access to marinas and public facilities. Local authorities design these restrictions to prevent accidents and preserve aquatic ecosystems.

In contrast, anchoring in areas with heavy currents might be dangerous but is not outright illegal unless specified. Nighttime anchoring is generally permissible unless local regulations state otherwise. Lastly, while anchoring in depths exceeding 20 feet may present challenges, it is not a blanket rule that constitutes illegal behavior. Thus, understanding location-specific regulations is essential for safe and legal boating practices.