(a) No person shall operate a watercraft and tow or otherwise assist a person, nor shall any such person be on water skis, aquaplane, surfboard or similar contrivance in Lorain waters unless such watercraft is occupied by at least two competent persons: one who shall be the operator to observe the traffic pattern toward which such watercraft is approaching and one who shall be the observer to observe the progress of the person being towed, provided that this section does not apply to watercraft used in duly authorized ski exhibitions, tournaments or other aquatic events.
(b) No person shall water ski or otherwise assist anyone on water skis, aquaplane, surfboard or similar contrivance in the following waters or circumstances:
(1) Within 200 feet from shore or any other permanent or temporary obstruction, pier, breakwall, boat or yacht club entrance, swimming beach, anchored watercraft or any other watercraft when such skiing would constitute a hazard to life or property.
However, this subsection does not apply to watercraft used in duly authorized ski exhibitions, tournaments or other aquatic events;
(2) From sunset to sunrise, provided that this subsection does not apply to watercraft used in duly authorized ski exhibitions. tournaments or other aquatic events;
(3) In a reckless or dangerous manner or when more than two persons are being towed simultaneously by the same watercraft. Any person on water skis, aquaplane, surfboard or similar contrivance shall conduct himself upon the same in a careful and prudent manner and shall remain at all times a reasonable and prudent distance from the person and property of others, provided that this subsection does not apply to watercraft used in duly authorized ski exhibitions, tournaments or other aquatic events;
(4) Unless such person being towed is wearing an adequate and effective Coast Guard approved Type 1, 2 or 3 personal flotation device, provided that this subsection does not apply to watercraft used in duly authorized ski exhibitions, tournaments or other aquatic events authorized by special permit. A watercraft operator towing a person not wearing a personal flotation device as prescribed in this section shall be deemed in violation of this section. All personal flotation devices shall be in good and serviceable condition and of appropriate size.
(c) No person shall install or maintain any structure or inclined platform known as a water ski jump on the waters of Lorain, and no person shall use such structure or platform for water ski jumping, except upon special permit.
(Ord. 98-81. Passed 6-15-81.)