Vessels: public safety activities.

(1) Existing law generally regulates the operation of vessels and associated equipment used, to be used, or carried in vessels used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the state. Existing law provides specified exemptions to the above-described provision, including for a vessel whose owner is a state or subdivision thereof, that is used principally for governmental purposes, and which is clearly identifiable as such. This bill would define "subdivision thereof" or "subdivision of the state" to include cities and counties. (2) Existing law provides that an owner, operator, or person in command of any vessel propelled by machinery who uses it, or permits it to be used, at a speed in excess of 5 miles per hour in any portion of specified beach, swimming, or boat landing areas, not otherwise regulated by local rules and regulations, is guilty of an infraction, as specified. Existing law exempts specified vessels from this provision. This bill would additionally exempt vessels, including personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels, as defined, and public safety vessels engaged in public safety activities, as defined, and personal water craft, clearly identifiable as lifeguard rescue vessels or public safety vessels, operating within the surf zone from the above-described provision.