23-2-526. Overloading -- overpowering -- noise limitations. - Montana Statutes

     23-2-526. Overloading -- overpowering -- noise limitations. (1) No vessel shall be loaded with passengers or cargo beyond its safe carrying capacity, taking into consideration weather and other normal operating conditions.
     (2) No vessel shall be equipped with any motor or other propulsion machinery beyond its safe power capacity, taking into consideration the type and construction of such watercraft and other existing operating conditions.
     (3) Except as provided in 23-2-523(9), for the purposes of 45-8-101 and 45-8-111, the operation of a motorboat or personal watercraft that emits noise in excess of 86 dbA when measured at a distance of 50 feet or emits exhaust noise in excess of 90 dbA measured 1 meter from the muffler at idle speed in accordance with the stationary sound level measurement procedure for pleasure motorboats (SAE J2005) is presumed to be a public nuisance and constitute disorderly conduct, except when otherwise lawfully operated under a motorboat racing permit issued by a political subdivision of the state.

     History: En. Sec. 11, Ch. 285, L. 1959; R.C.M. 1947, 69-3511; (3)En. Sec. 2, Ch. 694, L. 1983; amd. Sec. 4, Ch. 728, L. 1991.