(A) This section is for the purpose and intent to control and regulate the use of the waters of Silver Lake and Virginia (Bailey’s) Lake in the City of Virginia, Minnesota, said bodies of water being located entirely within the boundaries of the city, to promote its fullest use and enjoyment by the public in general and the citizens of Virginia in particular, to insure safety for persons and property in connection with the use of said waters; to harmonize and integrate the varying uses of said water; and to promote the general health, safety and welfare of the citizens of Virginia, Minnesota.
(B) No person shall navigate, operate, dock or anchor any boat or watercraft on Silver Lake or Virginia (Bailey’s) Lake within the city except in accordance with the provisions of this section.
(C) Terms used in this ordinance related to boating are defined in M.S. § 86B.005.
(D) A person may operate a motor boat on Silver Lake without a permit from the city. Silver Lake is designated a “no wake” lake, as all parties using motor boats must comply with the no wake policy. The portion of the waterway that lies between the boardwalk and the shore of the Public Utilities shall be non-public waters and shall not be traversed by any means without written permission from the city.
(E) A person may operate a motor boat on Virginia (Bailey’s) Lake without a permit from the city. Virginia (Bailey’s) Lake is designated a “no wake” lake, as all parties using motor boats must comply with the no wake policy.
(F) Any person violating any provision of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction thereof, be punished by a fine of not more than $100 or by imprisonment for not more than 90 days.
(G) Enforcement. The primary responsibility for enforcement of violations on waterways shall rest with the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). This, however, shall not preclude enforcement by other licensed peace officers.
(H) Exemptions. All authorized Resource Management, Emergency and Enforcement Personnel, while acting in the performance of their assigned duties are exempt from the foregoing restrictions.
(Adopted 8-26-1997)(Amended 6-8-1999; amended 9-13-2011; Am. Ord. passed 7-25-2023)