AUSTIN, Texas — The Austin Police Department’s Lake Patrol Unit will enforce a citywide ban on personal watercraft on Lake Austin over the Labor Day holiday, officials said.
The ban prohibits the use of jet skis, wet bikes, motorized surfboards and similar devices designed to be operated by a person sitting, standing or kneeling on the vessel. It takes effect at sunset Friday and remains in place until sunrise Tuesday.
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Non-motorized craft, including kayaks, canoes and paddleboards, are still permitted, as are conventional boats designed for passengers to sit or stand inside the vessel.
City officials said the annual restriction is intended to protect the safety of the large crowds expected on the lake and in surrounding parks during the holiday weekend. The ban applies only to Lake Austin.
Police plan to patrol the lake throughout the weekend and are urging boaters to follow the Texas Water Safety Act and city boating ordinances. Officials asked anyone who witnesses reckless boat operation or a water-related emergency to call 911.
The ordinance additionally requires motorboat operators to stay on the right side of the lake, except when assisting a downed water skier, and bars anyone from operating a watercraft at a speed that is not reasonable for existing conditions.