Sacramento, California’s scenic rivers and waterways offer a fantastic backdrop for a boat rental or charter business. Whether you’re starting fresh or scaling your operations, navigating the regulatory landscape and securing the correct permits is vital. This guide walks you through the key legal and operational requirements for running a boat rental business in Sacramento — from vessel registration to safety certifications, local berth rules, and compliance with charter‑license laws.

For all Getmyboat operators, we emphasize strict adherence to both local and federal regulations for boat operators. While we provide essential information to assist you in launching your business, conducting your independent research is advisable. Keep in mind that rules and regulations may undergo changes, and staying informed will ensure your business remains compliant and operates seamlessly.

1. Vessel Registration and Display Requirements

In California, all motorized boats regardless of size, and sailboats over eight feet in length must be registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV).


For a boat rental or charter business, each vessel you operate must properly display its registration number and validation decal, and you must carry the Certificate of Number on board.


Failure to register or display properly can lead to penalties, making registration one of the first compliance steps for your operation.

2. Boater Education and Operator Licensing in California

As of January 1st, 2025, California law requires all boaters operating a motorized recreational vessel to carry a California Boater Card (CBC).

  • Previously, the rule applied only to younger operators; now, regardless of age, your staff (and if you rent to the public, the responsible operator) must hold the Boater Card.
  • If you’re operating charters (with paying passengers), additional licensing may be required: the U.S. Coast Guard issues “for‑hire vessel operator” licenses for certain types of vessels.
  • Make sure all onboard operators meet the applicable license requirements for your vessel type and capacity.

3. Commercial Insurance & Charter‑Specific Compliance

If you provide chartered services (i.e., hiring out the vessel with a crew or taking paying passengers), you must secure commercial marine insurance covering hull, liability, passenger risks, and pollution/spill liability.

Moreover, California’s rental business regulations require you to maintain records of each rental (name/address of hirer, vessel identification, departure/return time) and you may need to carry a copy of the rental agreement onboard.


Ensure your business model—whether bare‑boat (renter drives) or captained charter—aligns with the correct insurance, licensing, and liability frameworks.

4. Local Marina & Berth Licensing in Sacramento

Operating in or docking at the Sacramento Marina (and local marinas) requires you to comply with local berth license and mooring regulations:

  • A berth license or assignment is required before placing a vessel in a slip.
  • The City of Sacramento ordinance (Chapter 12.76) prohibits certain uses such as living aboard boats longer than permitted, unauthorized docking, and personal watercraft operation in restricted zones.
  • Other local jurisdictions like West Sacramento also impose speed limits, posting of signage and permit requirements for berthing.

  • Make sure your business secures all berth/ dock permissions, complies with mooring/anchoring rules, and maintains slip license status to avoid impoundment or penalties.

5. Safety Equipment & Operational Compliance

Your vessels must meet California safety‑equipment standards:

  • Every vessel must carry US Coast Guard‑approved life jackets (enough for one per passenger), throwable devices (for vessels 16 ft+), a whistle or sound device, navigational lights when underway at night or in restricted visibility, and a fire extinguisher for powered vessels.
  • Ensure risk management procedures (weather monitoring, safety briefing, rescue protocols) are in place.
  • As part of a charter or rental operation, documenting safety inspections and briefing renters/operators is an important operational control.

Checklist to Get Started

  • Register each vessel with the CA DMV, display registration numbers correctly.
  • Confirm all operators have the valid California Boater Card (CBC) as required by 2025.
  • Secure appropriate insurance for rental or charter operations.
  • Obtain berth/ slip licenses and ensure docking arrangements are compliant with local ordinances.
  • Carry the required safety gear onboard each vessel and keep documentation of inspections/training.
  • Maintain rental records/digital logs as required for compliance.
  • Monitor local ordinance updates (City of Sacramento, Delta waterways, West Sacramento) and state/federal boating law changes.

Passenger Pick Up/ Drop Off in Sacramento:

Numerous locations facilitate boat drop-offs and pickups for rentals, and here are a few that have specifically designated passenger areas. Prior to confirming your arrangements, ensure to check the pickup and drop-off guidelines with the marina or dock.

  • Discovery Park Boat Launch in Sacramento, CA
  • West Sacramento Waterfront: Located on Riverfront St West Sacramento, CA 95691