Bridgewater Channel Laws

City ordinances governing the Bridgewater Channel
The Bridgewater Channel is a mecca for residents and vacationers and is a favorite hot-spot for boaters to beach during the warmer weather. The "Channel" is subject to the Lake Havasu City, Arizona Code of Ordinances as well as State and Federal laws. In the City Ordinance details, Arizona state law (AZ Revised Statutes) is noted in parenthesis.
City ordinances at a glance
- Boaters must stay to the right (counter-clockwise).
- No boat 36' or longer allowed without prior city permission.
- Driver's view may not be impeded at any time.
- No overloading of passengers in a boat.
- No reckless or dangerous operation of a boat.
- No idling while beached.
- No stopping in the channel.
- No-wake zone/5mph max.
- No overnight mooring.
- No swimming in or across the channel.
- Water cannons/guns are illegal.
- No bow-riding while underway.
For specific information about operating a boat or PWC while under the influence of alcohol, please go to our OUI page.
Fines and penalties may be greater based on the infraction or crime, as well as the violator being charged under both the city ordinance and the Arizona state statutes, which may constitute a different misdemeanor class. Common sense is the best way to keep yourself and your party safe from harm or citation. Anyone planning on boating through the Bridgewater Channel is urged to familiarize themselves with the Lake Havasu City Code of Ordinances, as well as the Arizona Revised Statutes.
Our boating safety section is a four-part series. Please browse through the additional sections for more information:
Part 1: Boating Safety
Part 2: Arizona Boating Laws
Part 3: Bridgewater Channel Laws
Part 4: OUI Laws