The Austin Police Department (APD) Lake Patrol Unit will enforce a City Ordinance prohibiting the use of personal watercraft on Lake Austin during the Independence Day holiday. This ban, which includes devices such as wet bikes and motorized surfboards, will begin at sunset on July 3, 2025, and end at sunrise on July 5, 2024, in accordance with Ordinance 8-5-81. Non-motorized devices like kayaks and canoes are exempt from this restriction.
The annual prohibition is intended to ensure safety for those using the lake and parks over the holiday period. The ban applies exclusively to Lake Austin.
Police will be present on Lake Austin throughout the weekend to ensure compliance with the Texas Water Safety Act and City of Austin boating laws. Authorities advise all boaters to prioritize safety and report any reckless behavior or emergencies by calling 9-1-1.
Both the Austin Parks and Recreation Department and APD encourage public enjoyment of parks and lakes while emphasizing safety during the holiday.
City Ordinance 8-5-81 outlines specific restrictions regarding watercraft usage on Lake Austin. It states that personal watercraft may not be used from sunset before Memorial Day until sunrise after Memorial Day, before Labor Day until after Labor Day, or from sunset on July 3 until sunrise on July 5. Additionally, operators must stay to the right side of the lake unless assisting a downed skier and should maintain speeds that are reasonable given current conditions.
