Chapter 8.14
MOTORIZED WATERCRAFT

Sections:

8.14.010    Definitions.

8.14.020    Motorized watercraft prohibited.

8.14.030    Exceptions.

8.14.040    Enforcement – Penalty.

8.14.010 Definitions.

As utilized in this chapter, the following terms shall have the meanings set forth below:

(1) “Lake” means a standing body of fresh water with an aquatic surface area exceeding four acres in size and surrounded substantially by land.

(2) “Motorized watercraft” means a boat, ship, vessel, recreational vehicle or other watercraft propelled wholly or partially by an internal combustion engine, electric motor, jet pump propulsion system or similar mechanized apparatus, but excluding any craft propelled exclusively by manual means such as foot pedals, paddles or oars.

(3) “Operation” means the engagement or activation of the internal combustion engine, electric motor, jet pump propulsion system or similar mechanized propulsion apparatus of a motorized watercraft.

(4) “Pond” means a standing body of fresh water with an aquatic surface area less than four acres in size and surrounded substantially by land. (Ord. 412 § 2, 2006)

8.14.020 Motorized watercraft prohibited.

The operation of motorized watercraft upon any lake or pond located within the City of Woodinville is prohibited except as expressly authorized by this chapter. (Ord. 412 § 2, 2006)

8.14.030 Exceptions.

(1) The prohibitions set forth in this chapter shall not apply to the following:

(a) The operation of a motorized watercraft by an employee or agent of a governmental entity while acting within the scope of his/her governmental duties.

(b) The operation of a motorized watercraft to the actual extent necessary to avert or otherwise respond to an emergency involving immediate danger to human life.

(c) The operation of motorized watercraft necessary to perform in water work, including but not limited to maintenance, construction, mitigation and/or restoration work. Such exemption shall be requested in writing and approved by the City prior to commencing any activities.

(2) A person seeking to avoid criminal or civil penalties for an alleged violation of WMC 8.14.020 shall bear the exclusive burden of demonstrating the applicability of any exception established by this section. (Ord. 462 § 2, 2008; Ord. 412 § 2, 2006)

8.14.040 Enforcement – Penalty.

Violation of this chapter shall subject the violator to civil and criminal penalties pursuant to WMC Title 1. Violation of this chapter shall also constitute a public nuisance subject to abatement pursuant to Chapter 8.07 WMC and applicable State law. The City of Woodinville Public Works Director is authorized to issue administrative interpretations of this chapter. (Ord. 686 § 8, 2019; Ord. 412 § 2, 2006)