Lake Dillon Reservoir, located roughly 70 miles west of Denver in the Rocky Mountains, is one of Colorado’s most popular high-altitude boating destinations. Due to its protected water supply status and high recreational demand, commercial boating on Lake Dillon is strictly regulated.

All operators affiliated with Getmyboat must comply with local, state, and federal boating regulations, including vessel requirements, captain licensing, permits, insurance, and environmental protections. Below is a comprehensive guide to help ensure your commercial boating operations on Lake Dillon Reservoir remain compliant.

USCG Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC)

Anyone operating a commercial vessel on Lake Dillon Reservoir must hold a valid U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC).

The specific credential required depends on the vessel type and activity:

  • Passenger Vessel (PV) Master – Required for charter boats carrying passengers for hire
  • Master Fishing Vessel (MFV) – Required for fishing guide operations

Credential requirements may vary based on vessel size and passenger capacity. Operators should verify licensing requirements directly with the U.S. Coast Guard to ensure compliance with federal maritime law.

Commercial Boat Permit (DRReC)

All commercial boating activities on Lake Dillon Reservoir require a permit from the Dillon Reservoir Recreation Committee (DRReC).

A commercial permit is mandatory for:

  • Boat rentals
  • Fishing charters
  • Sightseeing tours
  • Any for-hire boating activity

Permit applications and inquiries:

  • Phone: (970) 668-4065
  • Summit County / DRReC offices

Operating without a valid DRReC permit may result in fines or suspension of commercial privileges.

Colorado Boater Safety Certificate (Boater Card)

Under Colorado law, most motorized boat operators must carry a Colorado Boater Safety Card.

  • Anyone born on or after January 1, 1989 must successfully complete a CPW-approved boating safety course to operate a motorized vessel.
  • Courses are available online and in person through Colorado Parks and Wildlife (CPW).

Insurance Requirements

Commercial boat operators must carry adequate marine liability insurance to protect passengers, property, and business operations.

While insurance requirements may vary based on:

  • Vessel size
  • Passenger capacity
  • Type of activity

Operators are responsible for ensuring coverage meets:

  • Colorado minimum standards
  • Any additional DRReC or marina requirements

Passenger Pick-Up & Drop-Off Locations

Passenger pick-up and drop-off are only allowed in designated commercial zones. Always confirm access rules with the marina before operating.

Approved locations include:

  • Dillon Marina Park Pavilion
    203 W Lodgepole St, Dillon, CO 80435
  • Dillon Marina Office
    150 Marina Dr, Dillon, CO 80435

Unauthorized loading or unloading may result in enforcement action.

Aquatic Nuisance Species (ANS) Stamp & Inspection

Colorado maintains strict invasive species prevention laws.

Requirements:

  • All motorized boats and sailboats must have a valid Colorado ANS Stamp
  • All motorized vessels, including those with small outboard motors, must complete an ANS inspection prior to launch

Boat inspections:

  • Dillon Marina: (970) 668-4275

Failure to comply may result in denial of launch or fines under state law.

Additional Commercial Boating Rules on Lake Dillon

Prohibited Activities

  • Personal watercraft (Jet Skis) are not allowed on Lake Dillon Reservoir.
  • Waste discharge or pollution of any kind is strictly prohibited.

Operational Requirements

  • All commercial vessels must carry USCG-approved safety equipment, including life jackets for every passenger.
  • Commercial operators must maintain a minimum distance of 100 feet from:
    • Other vessels
    • Shoreline
    • Swimmers and anglers
  • Commercial boats must remain within the 30 mph speed limit and avoid creating excessive wakes.
  • Operators must minimize noise through reasonable operational measures.
  • A daily activity log must be maintained and provided to the DRReC upon request.

Towed Watersports

  • A separate DRReC permit is required for:
    • Water skiing
    • Wakeboarding
    • Parasailing

Fishing Requirements

  • Any passenger intending to fish must possess a valid Colorado fishing license, even on guided or charter trips.

Captain Licensing Support

If you need help obtaining a USCG Captain’s License, Getmyboat partners with Mariners Learning System.

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Helpful Contacts

  • Dillon Reservoir Recreation Committee (DRReC): (970) 468-5600
  • Colorado Parks & Wildlife (CPW): (303) 297-1192

Final Note

Regulations for Lake Dillon Reservoir may change seasonally or annually. Commercial operators are strongly encouraged to confirm all requirements directly with DRReC, CPW, and the U.S. Coast Guard before operating.

This guide is intended for informational purposes and does not replace official regulatory guidance.