Sheriff's Department Issues Warnings to Stand Up Paddleboarders

The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department Harbor Patrol said last week that it issued multiple warnings to stand up paddleboarders in Marina del Rey for not carrying required safety equipment while on the water.

According to the Sheriff's Department, paddleboards used for cruising the harbor are classified as vessels by the United States Coastguard and must therefore carry safety equipment such as life jackets and signaling devices.

"As vessels, SUPs are subject to vessel safety equipment requirements when being used outside of the surf zone," LASD said in a news release. "An SUP operated outside of 200 yards from shore, or anywhere outside of designated swim areas of the Marina del Rey Harbor, is subject to citation by marine law enforcement."

Sheriff's officials said that all SUPs operated in the marina must have a life jacket on board, although it does not have to be worn if the paddleboarder is above the age of 12. In addition, a sound signaling device, such as a whistle, must also be carried on the SUP.

If the paddleboard is being operated at night, the paddleboarder must also have lighting and visual distress devices on board.

SUPs operated inside the surf zone or as surfboards are not considered vessels and do not have to meet the same safety requirements, LASD said.

Anyone with questions about the requirements for stand up paddleboaders can contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Harbor Patrol Office at 310-482-6000.