FAQ

Pleasant Lake is a public lake but has a private boat launch. We also have a county park that is open to the public, but it does not have a boat launch. The launch in the channel is private for the PBEA - Plesant Bay Estates Association Owners.

The 4th of July Fireworks show is managed by professional pyrotechnics experts, and while we volunteer to help facilitate, safety is our top priority. We can't control the weather or any delays it may cause, and any decision to postpone to a rain date is out of our hands. The professionals must also consider the projected weather on the rain date as well as the added cost of securing and reloading the barges for a rain date. We strive to provide a spectacular show each year, but please understand that factors like weather are beyond our control. We appreciate your support and understanding!

The island is private property, much like the yard of your home. The owners are gracious enough to allow us to enjoy the surrounding waters, but the public does not have permission to trespass on their property. Please be aware that security cameras are in place, so let’s all remember to be respectful. We ask that you pick up after yourselves, stay off the island, and show respect for the property and the lake we all enjoy. Thank you for helping keep our community and lake a great place for everyone!

• Maintain Safe Distances:

  • Keep at least 100 feet from other boats, shorelines, docks, swimmers, and persons being towed when operating at greater than slow-no-wake speed.

  • Personal Watercraft (PWC) operators should stay at least 200 feet from Great Lakes shorelines and maintain a 150-foot distance behind other vessels unless they are also a PWC.

• Slow-No-Wake Zones:

  • In areas designated for slow-no-wake speed, move at a speed that does not create a wake. Keep at least 100 feet from other boats, structures, and people.

• Boating Safety Certificate:

  • If born on or after July 1, 1996, you must complete a boating safety course and obtain a boating safety certificate to operate a motorized vessel, including PWCs.

• Life Jackets Are Required:

  • Ensure there is a U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person on board. Children under 6 years old must wear one when the boat is moving.

• Follow Local Regulations:

  • Be aware of specific local regulations that may impose additional distance or speed requirements. Always check for any restrictions in your boating area.

• Required Safety Equipment:

  • If your boat is 16 feet or longer, make sure you have at least one Type B fire extinguisher. Check that your boat’s registration and equipment are in good condition.

• Pollution Prevention:

  • Do not discharge waste into the water. Boats with toilets must have a marine sanitation device on board.

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Personal Watercraft (PWC) Jetski Rules:

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• Age Restrictions: Operators under 14 years old cannot operate a PWC. Those 14 and 15 years old can operate a PWC with supervision from a parent/guardian or a designated person who is at least 21 years old. Operators 16 years or older may operate a PWC without restrictions, but they must have a boating safety certificate.

• Safety Equipment: All PWC operators and passengers must wear a U.S. Coast Guard-approved Type I, II, or III life jacket.

• Operating Hours: PWCs may not be operated from sunset to 8:00 A.M. local time.

• Maneuvering Restrictions: PWCs should not cross within 150 feet behind another vessel at greater than slow-no-wake speed and must keep a distance of at least 100 feet from docks, boats, and occupied bathing areas.

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For more detailed information, visit the official Michigan Boating Safety page: Michigan Boating Safety - DNR