LAKE HOPATCONG, N.J. — As the summer boating season gets underway, Morris County Sheriff James M. Gannon and Sgt. Anthony Buro of the New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau are reminding residents and visitors to follow important safety regulations in place on Lake Hopatcong.
These regulations, outlined in Title 13, Chapter 82 of the New Jersey Administrative Code, are designed to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all boaters, water skiers, swimmers, and lakefront residents.
Slow Speed-No Wake Conditions
A “Slow Speed-No Wake” condition is automatically enforced when lake water levels reach the extreme high water elevation of 924.20 feet, or when the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gauge #01455400 at Hopatcong State Park reads 9.5. Current water levels can be monitored at USGS.gov.
Waterskiing Restrictions
From May 15 through September 15, waterskiing is prohibited between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in designated areas, including:
- Byram Cove
- Between Raccoon Island and Prospect Point
- Between Prospect Point and Halsey Island
- Woodport Cove
- Between Halsey Island and Raccoon Island
- Henderson Cove
Additionally, no vessel may tow more than two skiers during these peak hours. Towboats must adhere to manufacturer capacity limits and keep a safe distance from shorelines, structures, swimmers, and other vessels.
Wake Surfing Requirements
All vessels engaged in wake surfing must maintain a minimum distance of 200 feet from docks, piers, people, moorings, or other boats, as required by N.J.A.C. 13:82-3.1(b).
Speed Limits
- No vessel may exceed 10 mph between sunset and sunrise.
- From May 15 to September 15, the speed limit on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays is 30 mph.
- A 5 mph limit applies within 100 feet of shorelines, docks, bridges, buoys, and swimmers.
Hull Elevation Rule
Boats must not be operated in a manner that lifts the entire hull out of the water, except during sanctioned events or permitted testing, as such operation is deemed careless.
Sheriff Gannon and Sgt. Buro urge all boaters to follow these guidelines and stay alert on the water. The New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau will be actively enforcing these laws throughout the summer.
For emergencies, dial 9-1-1 or contact the NJSP Lake Hopatcong Station at 732-899-5050. Marine law enforcement can also be reached via VHF Channel 16.
“Please enjoy a safe, respectful, and fun boating season on Lake Hopatcong,” officials said.
