Here’s What Happens if You Get Caught Boating Drunk in Minnesota This Weekend

DNR Launches Operation Dry Water to Catch Drunk Boaters in Minnesota

If you’re planning to hit the lake this Fourth of July weekend, you won’t be alone.

I’m not just talking about the usual Minnesota holiday lake crowds soaking up sun and reeling in walleyes; the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will also be out in full force as part of Operation Dry Water, a nationwide effort to keep impaired boaters off the water.

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The campaign runs July 4–7 to spotlight just how dangerous and illegal boating under the influence really is.

Boating and Booze Don’t Mix in Minnesota

Across the country and here in Minnesota, alcohol is the top factor in boating-related accidents and deaths, according to the DNR. Even with that sobering stat, dozens of people are arrested for boating while intoxicated every year around the Fourth.

“We have zero tolerance for people who make the decision to boat under the influence,” said Lt. Eric Sullivan with the DNR’s Marine Unit. “People who boat under the influence put themselves and everyone else on the water in danger. It’s a selfish decision that carries with it potentially disastrous consequences.”

What Happens If You’re Caught Drinking and Boating in Minnesota?

Minnesota has some of the toughest laws around when it comes to boating while intoxicated. If you’re caught operating a boat, or any motor vehicle or recreational vehicle, under the influence, you could lose your right to drive any of them.

And yes, that means jail time is on the table.

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A first offense is typically a misdemeanor, with up to 90 days in jail and $1,000 in fines. But things escalate quickly:

Two or more prior offenses… you’re looking at up to a year in jail and $3,000 in fines.

Three or more prior convictions or certain felony history… that’s a felony, with fines up to $14,000 and up to seven years in prison.

READ MORE: New Minnesota Boating Law Now in Effect

And no matter the charge, all BWI convictions come with a boating suspension of at least 90 days, which must fall between May 1 and October 31, and can stretch across two boating seasons.

Bottom line is it’s just not worth it.

The DNR isn’t just focused on keeping alcohol off the water; they’re also reminding everyone to wear a life jacket. Most fatal boating accidents happen when someone falls overboard without one. Life jackets save lives, plain and simple.

For more details, you can visit operationdrywater.org or check out the boating safety tips on the DNR’s website.