Lake Martin is one of Alabama’s premier boating destinations, known for its clear water, sandy beaches, abundant wildlife, and scenic shoreline. As the largest man-made lake in Alabama, Lake Martin spans more than 41,000 acres of water and over 400 miles of shoreline, making it ideal for boating, fishing, swimming, and water sports.

To help ensure safe and lawful boating experiences, all commercial operators—including those listing on Getmyboat—must comply with Alabama boating regulations and Lake Martin–specific requirements. Below is an updated guide to the most important rules and permits you’ll need to operate legally on Lake Martin.

General Compliance for Getmyboat Operators

All Getmyboat operators are required to follow local, state, and federal boating laws, including obtaining the appropriate permits, meeting vessel and captain qualifications, and operating only from approved docks and designated commercial areas. These regulations are enforced by the Alabama Marine Police Division (ALEA).

Vessel Registration Requirements

All commercial watercraft operating on Lake Martin must be properly registered with the Alabama Marine Police Division. This includes:

  • Passenger charter boats
  • Boat rental vessels
  • Watercraft used for any paid commercial service

Registration is handled through the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA). Operators should ensure their registration is current and that all required documentation is onboard at all times.

Vessel Inspection

Every commercial vessel on Lake Martin is required to pass an annual safety inspection conducted by the Alabama Marine Police Division. Inspections verify compliance with state and federal safety standards, including required onboard equipment and vessel condition. Operating without a valid inspection may result in fines or suspension of commercial activity.

Commercial Insurance Requirements

All commercial boat operators must carry adequate commercial liability insurance to protect against accidents or damages.

  • Getmyboat does not provide insurance coverage directly.
  • Insurance must explicitly cover boat rentals or charter operations.

Proof of insurance may be requested during inspections or enforcement checks.

Commercial Boat Permits & Rental Operations

To legally operate a boat rental business on Lake Martin, operators must meet several requirements:

  • Obtain a county business license
  • Register the vessel with the Alabama Marine Police as a Livery (Rental) Vessel
  • Carry a signed rental agreement onboard, confirming:
    • The renter received safety instructions
    • All parties understand and agree to rental terms
    • The renter affirms they meet Alabama boater safety requirements

Failure to meet Alabama’s rental business regulations can result in enforcement action.

📞 For permit guidance, contact the Alabama Marine Patrol Division at (334) 676-6005.

U.S. Coast Guard Captain Licensing

If a boat owner leases their vessel and serves as the captain, federal law requires proper U.S. Coast Guard licensing:

  • OUPV (“6-Pack”) License – Required for vessels carrying up to 6 passengers
  • Master License – Required for vessels carrying more than 6 passengers and subject to stricter safety standards

Commercial vessels must be registered with both the U.S. Coast Guard and the State of Alabama when applicable. While the hired captain is responsible for safe operation, vessel owners retain shared responsibility for legal compliance.

Alabama Boater Safety Certificate

Alabama law requires that anyone operating a motorized vessel and born on or after April 28, 1954, must successfully complete a state-approved boater safety course and carry a valid boater education card.

Courses are available online through approved providers such as Boat-Ed.

Passenger Pickup & Drop-Off Locations

Passenger pickup and drop-off must occur at approved docks or marinas. Operators should confirm all local marina rules before scheduling trips. Common public access points on Lake Martin include:

  • Public Lake Martin Boat Ramp – Alexander City, AL
  • Smith Landing Boat Ramp – Dadeville, AL
  • Highway 34 Public Boat Ramp – Dadeville, AL

Unauthorized dock use may result in citations or access restrictions.

Additional Lake Martin Boating Regulations

Commercial operators on Lake Martin must also follow these safety and operational rules:

  • Maximum speed for commercial boats is 45 mph
  • Boats must stay at least 100 feet away from:
    • Swimming areas
    • Docks
    • Other vessels
  • Operation is prohibited in designated no-wake zones
  • All vessels must carry required safety equipment, including:
    • A U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for each passenger
    • Fire extinguisher
    • Sound-producing device (horn or whistle)
    • Visual distress signals (when applicable)

⚠️ Note: Separate licensing requirements apply to commercial fishing charters, particularly in Alabama’s salt and brackish waters.

Contact Information

For the most up-to-date information on Lake Martin boating laws and commercial requirements, contact:

Alabama Marine Patrol Division (ALEA)
📞 Phone: (334) 676-6005
📧 Email: marinepatrol@alea.gov