The Austin Police Department (APD) Lake Patrol Unit will enforce the City Ordinance prohibiting the use and operation of personal watercraft, wet bikes, motorized surfboards, and similar devices on Lake Austin. This ban begins at sunset on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, and ends at sunrise on Friday, July 5, 2024, as outlined in Ordinance 8-5-81. Non-motorized devices such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards remain permissible along with watercraft designed for conventional sitting or standing.
The annual ban aims to ensure safety for the numerous individuals using the lake and parks over the Independence Day holiday. The restriction is specific to Lake Austin.
Police will patrol Lake Austin this weekend and urge those using waterways to adhere to the Texas Water Safety Act and City of Austin boating laws and ordinances. Authorities encourage all boaters to practice safe boating habits and call 9-1-1 for any reckless operation of boats or emergencies.
The Austin Parks and Recreation Department alongside the Austin Police Department encourages public enjoyment of parks and lakes while emphasizing a safe holiday experience.
City Ordinance: 8-5-81 WATERCRAFT AND OTHER MOTORIZED CRAFT ON LAKE AUSTIN.
(A) A person may not use or possess a jet ski, wet bike, motorized surfboard, or similar device on Lake Austin:
(1) from sunset on the Friday before Memorial Day until sunrise on the Tuesday after Memorial Day;
(2) from sunset on the Friday before Labor Day until sunrise on the Tuesday after Labor Day; or
(3) from sunset on July 3 until sunrise on July 5.
(B) A person operating a motorboat on Lake Austin shall stay on the right side of the lake except when assisting a downed water skier.
(C) A person may not operate a watercraft on Lake Austin at a speed that is greater than reasonable and prudent under existing circumstances.
Source: 1992 Code Section 14-2-1; Ord. 031009-11; Ord. 031211-11.
