Why Jet Skis Are Not Allowed on Lake Union: Everything You Should Know

As a jet ski enthusiast, you may be wondering if jet skis are allowed on Lake Union; jet skis are not allowed on Lake Union for several reasons, one of which is the ban from the government.

There are several reasons why jet skis are not allowed in Lake Union; we are going to cover all the reasons and also give you some alternative places where you are free to jet ski as much as you like.

Lake Union is home to many other water activities, such as kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding, and seaplane tours. So why are jet skis banned from this lake? In this blog post, we will answer this question and explain everything you need to know about jet ski regulations in Lake Union. We will also cover the following topics:

• The history and reasons behind the jet ski ban on Lake Union
• The environmental and safety impacts of jet skis on Lake Union
• The legal consequences and penalties for violating the jet ski ban on Lake Union
• The alternatives and options for jet ski lovers who want to enjoy the water in Seattle
• The costs and damages of using jet skis in saltwater and how to avoid them

From this article, you will clearly understand why jet skis are not allowed on Lake Union and what you can do instead to have fun on the water.

The History and Reasons Behind the Jet Ski Ban on Lake Union

The jet ski ban on Lake Union dates back to 1992 when the Seattle City Council passed an ordinance that prohibited personal watercraft (PWC) use on Lake Union, Lake Washington Ship Canal, Salmon Bay, Portage Bay, Shilshole Bay, and Union Bay. 

The definition of a PWC in the ordinance encompasses vessels that are propelled by a water jet pump and designed for operation by a person in a seated, standing, or kneeling position, with a length not exceeding 16 feet. This includes jet skis, wave runners, sea-doos, and other similar devices.

The main reason for the jet ski ban on Lake Union was to protect the environment and the quality of life of the residents and visitors who enjoy the lake. According to the city council, jet skis pose several threats to the lake, such as:

• Noise pollution: Jet skis are very loud and can disturb the peace and tranquillity of the lake. They can also interfere with the communication and navigation of other boaters and wildlife.
• The use of jet skis can lead to water pollution by emitting noxious exhaust fumes and releasing oil into the water. Such pollution poses a serious threat to aquatic life and significantly reduces the water quality. Jet skis can also stir up sediments and pollutants from the bottom of the lake, which can affect the clarity and oxygen levels of the water.
• Safety hazards: Jet skis can create dangerous wakes and collisions with other vessels and swimmers, especially in the narrow and crowded areas of the lake. Jet skis can also damage the shoreline and the vegetation by eroding the soil and uprooting the plants.

The city council also considered the opinions and complaints of the public, who expressed their concerns and dissatisfaction with the jet ski activity on the lake. Many people felt that jet skis were incompatible with the character and culture of Lake Union, which is known for its historic and recreational value. 

Lake Union has many landmarks and attractions, such as the Gas Works Park, the Center for Wooden Boats, the Museum of History and Industry, and the famous houseboat community. It is also a popular destination for kayakers, sailors, paddle boarders, and fishermen who enjoy the calm and scenic waters of the lake.

Therefore, the city council decided to ban jet skis from Lake Union and other nearby waters to preserve the environment, the safety, and the quality of life of the lake users and residents. 

Numerous environmental groups, community organizations, and local businesses came forward to express their support for the ban on jet skis at Lake Union, commending the city council for taking measures to safeguard the lake.

The Environmental and Safety Impacts of Jet Skis on Lake Union

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The Environmental and Safety Impacts of Jet Skis on Lake Union

One of the main arguments against jet skis on Lake Union is that they have negative environmental and safety impacts on the lake and its users. In this section, we will examine some of the evidence and data that support this claim.

Noise Pollution

Jet skis are notoriously loud and can create a lot of noise pollution on the lake. According to a study by the National Park Service, jet skis can produce noise levels of up to 85 decibels (dB) at 50 feet away and up to 100 dB at 25 feet away.

This is equivalent to the noise of a lawnmower or a motorcycle and can be very annoying and stressful for the people and animals around the lake.

• The idyllic serenity of the lake can be disrupted by those who frequent its shores, thus hindering the opportunity for residents and visitors alike to relish in the calming sounds and picturesque vistas that the lake has to offer.
• Interfering with the communication and navigation of other boaters and wildlife, who may rely on sound cues to avoid collisions and predators.
• Causing hearing loss and stress to the wildlife, especially the birds and fish, who may be sensitive to loud noises and vibrations.
• Reducing the lake’s aesthetic and recreational value may affect the area’s tourism and economy.

To illustrate the noise pollution problem of jet skis on Lake Union, here is a table that compares the noise levels of jet skis with other watercraft and activities on the lake:

As you can see, jet skis are the loudest watercraft on the lake and can easily drown out the sounds of other boats and activities. They can surpass the noise regulations established by the city of Seattle, which prescribe a maximum of 70 dB in residential zones and 75 dB in commercial areas.

Water Pollution

Another argument against jet skis on Lake Union is that they can pollute the water with harmful exhaust fumes and oil. Jet skis are powered by internal combustion engines, which burn gasoline and emit carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the air and water. These pollutants can degrade the water quality and harm the lake’s aquatic life.

The amount and type of pollutants emitted by jet skis depend on the engine design and the fuel type. Jet skis can have two- or four-stroke engines, with different advantages and disadvantages.

Although two-stroke engines are simpler, less weighty, and less expensive than four-stroke engines, they are also less efficient, more boisterous, and emit more pollution. Four-stroke engines are more complex, heavier, and expensive but are also more fuel-efficient, quieter, and cleaner than two-stroke engines.

According to a study by the California Air Resources Board, two-stroke jet skis can emit up to 25% of their fuel as unburned hydrocarbons into the water, contributing to the formation of oil slicks and toxic algae blooms. Two-stroke jet skis can emit up to 10 times more carbon monoxide and 50 times more hydrocarbons than four skis.

Carbon monoxide can cause headaches, nausea, and drowsiness to jet ski riders and boaters. It can also reduce the oxygen levels in the water, which can suffocate the fish and other aquatic organisms. Hydrocarbons can cause cancer, mutations, and reproductive problems to the wildlife and humans who are exposed to them.

To illustrate the water pollution problem of jet skis on Lake Union, here is a table that compares the emission rates of two-stroke and four-stroke jet skis with other watercraft and vehicles:

Water Pollution

Another argument against jet skis on Lake Union is that they can pollute the water with harmful exhaust fumes and oil. Jet skis are powered by internal combustion engines, which burn gasoline and emit carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter into the air and water. These pollutants can degrade the water quality and harm the lake’s aquatic life.

The amount and type of pollutants emitted by jet skis depend on the engine design and the fuel type. Jet skis can have two- or four-stroke engines, with different advantages and disadvantages.

While two-stroke engines may be simpler, lighter, and less expensive, they also have lower efficiency, generate more noise, and emit more pollution when compared to their four-stroke counterparts. Four-stroke engines are more complex, heavier, and expensive but are more fuel-efficient, quieter, and cleaner than two-stroke engines.

According to a study by the California Air Resources Board, two-stroke jet skis can emit up to 25% of their fuel as unburned hydrocarbons into the water, contributing to the formation of oil slicks and toxic algae blooms.

Two-stroke jet skis can emit up to 10 times more carbon monoxide and 50 times more hydrocarbons than four. Carbon monoxide can cause headaches, nausea, and drowsiness to jet ski riders and boaters.

It can also reduce the oxygen levels in the water, which can suffocate the fish and other aquatic organisms. Hydrocarbons can cause cancer, mutations, and reproductive problems to the wildlife and humans who are exposed to them.

To illustrate the water pollution problem of jet skis on Lake Union, here is a table that compares the emission rates of two-stroke and four-stroke jet skis with other watercraft and vehicles:

As you can see, jet skis are the most polluting watercraft on the lake and can emit more pollutants than some vehicles on the road.

They can also exceed the emission standards of the Environmental Protection Agency (E.P.A.), which is responsible for overseeing and regulating, which limit the emission rates to 5 (H.C.) + 75 (C.O.) for two-stroke jet skis and 3 (H.C.) + 20 (C.O.) for four-stroke jet skis.

The Legal Consequences and Penalties for Violating the Jet Ski Ban on Lake Union

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The Legal Consequences and Penalties for Violating the Jet Ski Ban on Lake Union

If you are considering ignoring the jet ski ban on Lake Union and riding your jet ski on the lake anyway, you should be aware of the legal consequences and penalties you may face.

The jet ski ban on Lake Union is enforced by the Seattle Police Department’s Harbor Patrol Unit, which patrols the lake and the surrounding waters. The Harbor Patrol Unit has the authority to issue citations, fines, impoundments, and even criminal charges to the jet ski violators, depending on the severity and frequency of the offense.

1. Citations: A citation is a written notice that you have violated the jet ski ordinance and that you must pay a fine or appear in court. The acceptable amount depends on the number of violations you have committed. The first violation is $150, the second is $300, and the third and subsequent violations are $500 each. Should you neglect to pay the imposed fine or attend the court hearing, you could potentially incur supplementary consequences such as the issuance of an arrest warrant or the suspension of your driver’s license could be imposed upon you.

2. Fines: A fine is a monetary penalty you must pay for violating the jet ski ordinance. The fine is separate from the citation and is imposed by the court. The acceptable amount depends on the judge’s discretion and the case’s circumstances. The maximum fine for violating the jet ski ordinance is $1,000 per violation. In the event that the fine remains unpaid, there is a possibility of incurring supplementary consequences, such as a lien on your property or a garnishment of your wages.

3. Impoundments: An impoundment is a seizure of your jet ski by the Harbor Patrol Unit. The Harbor Patrol Unit has the authority to impound your jet ski if you violate the jet ski ordinance or pose a danger to public safety or the environment. The impoundment is temporary; you can reclaim your jet ski after paying the impoundment and storage fees. The impoundment fees are $100 for the first day and $50 for each additional day. The storage fees are $25 daily for the first 30 days and $50 afterward. If you fail to reclaim your jet ski within 90 days, it may be sold at a public auction or disposed of by the Harbor Patrol Unit.

4. Criminal charges: A formal accusation is what constitutes a criminal charge that you have committed a crime by violating the jet ski ordinance. The criminal charge is filed by the city attorney and is prosecuted in the municipal court. The criminal charge is separate from the citation and the fine and is imposed by the court. The type and severity of the criminal charge depend on the city attorney’s discretion and the case’s circumstances. The possible criminal charges for violating the jet ski ordinance are:

• Misdemeanor: . A misdemeanor charge may be filed if you violate the jet ski ordinance and cause injury or damage to another person or property or if you have multiple violations of the jet ski ordinance.
• Gross misdemeanor: Engaging in a serious misdeed that falls under the category of gross misdemeanor carries severe consequences, such as the possibility of being incarcerated for up to 364 days and being required to pay a substantial fine amounting to $5,000. A gross misdemeanor charge may be filed if you violate the jet ski ordinance and cause severe injury or damage to another person or property or have a history of criminal convictions or violations of the jet ski ordinance.
• Felony: A felony is a significant crime punishable by more than one year in prison and a higher fine. A felony charge may be filed if you violate the jet ski ordinance and cause death or substantial bodily harm to another person or if you have a history of felony convictions or violations of the jet ski ordinance.

As you can see, violating the jet ski ban on Lake Union can have serious legal consequences and penalties that can affect your finances, freedom, and reputation.

Therefore, riding your jet ski on the lake and breaking the law is not worth the risk. You should respect the jet ski ordinance and the lake environment and find other ways to enjoy the water in Seattle.

The Alternatives and Options for Jet Ski Lovers Who Want to Enjoy the Water in Seattle

If you are a jet ski lover who wants to enjoy the water in Seattle, you may feel disappointed and frustrated by the jet ski ban on Lake Union.

However, it would be best if you did not lose hope, as there are still some alternatives and options to have fun on the water. This section will explore some possibilities and suggestions for you to satisfy your jet ski cravings in Seattle.

Rent a Jet Ski on Other Lakes or Rivers

One of the simplest and easiest ways to ride a jet ski in Seattle is to rent one on other lakes or rivers that allow jet skis. There are several places in and around Seattle where you can rent a jet ski and have a blast on the water, such as:

• Lake Washington: Lake Washington is the largest and most famous lake in Seattle, and it allows jet skis on most parts of the lake, except for the Lake Washington Ship Canal and Union Bay. Lake Washington offers a variety of scenery and attractions, such as Mercer Island, the Husky Stadium, Mount Rainier, and the Seattle skyline. On the lake, such as the Kirkland Marina Park, the Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park, and the Renton Boat Launch. Jet ski rental rates are subject to fluctuation based on factors such as season, duration, and type of equipment selected. Right The cost the actual cost of renting a jet ski range from $80 up to $150 per hour.
• Lake Sammamish: Seattle is home to Lake Sammamish, a stunning and expansive body of water that also permits the use of jet skis. Lake Sammamish is known for its clear and clean water, wildlife, and recreational opportunities. You are very free to rent a jet ski from the Lake Sammamish State Park, which has a boat launch, a beach, a picnic area, and a playground. The rental rates are similar to those of Lake Washington, and they also depend on the season, the duration, and the type of jet ski.
• Snohomish River: The Snohomish River, a breathtaking waterway that originates from the Cascade Mountains and flows into the Puget Sound, provides a thrilling adventure for those who enjoy the use of jet skis. Snohomish River is ideal for jet ski riders who want to experience thrill and excitement, as the river has rapids, curves, and obstacles. The Snohomish River Jet Ski Rental, conveniently situated near the Everett Marina, offers the opportunity to rent a jet ski. To rent a two-seater jet ski, you’ll need to pay $100 for each hour, whereas if you go for a three-seater, it’ll cost you $125 per hour.

These are just some examples of where you can rent a jet ski in Seattle. Some other lakes and rivers allow jet skis, such as the Puget Sound, the Lake Tapps, the Green River, and the Skagit River. Utilize the online search engines or inquire within the local Jet City I clubs or dealers for more information and recommendations.

Buy a Jet Ski and Store It on a Trailer or a Dock

Another way to ride a jet ski in Seattle is to buy your jet ski and store it on a trailer or a dock. This way, you can have more freedom and flexibility to ride your jet ski whenever and wherever you want, as long as you follow the rules and regulations of the waterways.

However, this option also requires more investment and maintenance, as you must pay for the jet ski, the trailer or the dock, the registration, the insurance, the fuel, and the repairs.

If you decide to buy your jet ski and store it on a trailer or a dock, here are some tips and advice for you to consider:

• Select the optimal jet ski to suit your requirements and preferences. There are many jet skis types and models, such as stand-up, sit-down, sport, recreation, luxury, and performance. Each type and model has pros and cons, such as speed, power, comfort, features, and price. You should do some research and comparison before you buy your jet ski, and you should also test drive it if possible.
• Choose the right trailer or dock for your jet ski. There are also many types and models of trailers and docks, such as single, double, triple, floating, fixed, and hydraulic. Each type and model has pros and cons, such as capacity, stability, security, convenience, and cost. It would be best if you also did some research and comparison before you bought your trailer or dock and checked the compatibility and availability of your jet ski.
• Register and insure your jet ski. In Washington state, you must register and insure your jet ski to operate it on public waters. You can return your jet ski online or in person at the Department of Licensing, and you will need to pay a registration fee and display a registration number and a decal on your jet ski. Securing insurance for your jet ski can be done either online or in person at an insurance company. A premium payment is required in order to obtain proof of insurance for your jet ski.
• Maintain and repair your jet ski. Jet skis are complex and delicate machines that need regular maintenance and repair to keep them in good condition and performance. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and schedule for the maintenance and repair of your jet ski, and you should also check and clean your jet ski after each use. You can do some of the maintenance and repair yourself or hire a professional jet ski mechanic or service center.

The Alternatives and Options for Jet Ski Lovers Who Want to Enjoy the Water in Seattle

If you are a jet ski lover who wants to enjoy the water in Seattle, you may feel disappointed and frustrated by the jet ski ban on Lake Union.

However, it would be best if you did not lose hope, as there are still some alternatives and options to have fun on the water. This section will explore some possibilities and suggestions for you to satisfy your jet ski cravings in Seattle.

Try Other Water Activities on Lake Union

One of the alternatives and options for jet ski lovers who want to enjoy the water in Seattle is to try other water activities on Lake Union.

Lake Union is a place for jet skis and many other water activities, such as kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding, and seaplane tours. These water activities can also provide excitement, adventure, and relaxation and be more compatible and respectful with the lake environment and culture.

Here are some of the examples of the water activities that you can try on Lake Union:

• Kayaking: Kayaking involves navigating a small vessel on the water by utilizing a paddle, providing the opportunity to relish in the surrounding scenery and observe the aquatic fauna. You can also choose your own pace and difficulty, paddle slowly and gently or fast and vigorously. You can rent a kayak from several locations on the lake, such as the Northwest Outdoor Center, the Agua Verde Paddle Club, and Moss Bay. Kayak rental rates are subject to variation based on the type of kayak, duration, and season, generally falling between $15 and $25 per hour.
• Sailing: Sailing is a water activity that involves steering a boat called a sailboat using the wind and the sails. Sailing can be a fun and challenging way to experience the lake and its weather, as you can control your sailboat and adjust to the wind and the waves. You can also learn some skills and techniques, such as tacking, jibing, and trimming. You can rent a sailboat from several locations on the lake, such as the Center for Wooden Boats, the Sail Sand Point, and the Seattle Sailing Club. The hourly rental rates for sailboats fluctuate according to multiple factors, including the time of year, the length of the rental period, and the specific type of sailboat chosen. Typically, these rates will fall between $30 and $60 per hour.
• Paddleboarding: Paddle boarding is a water activity that involves standing on a large and flat board called a paddle board and using a paddle to propel yourself through the water. Paddleboarding can be a relaxing and enjoyable way to appreciate the lake and its beauty, as you can glide on the water and soak in the sun and the breeze. You can also improve your balance and fitness, as paddle boarding can work your core and your legs. You can rent a paddle board from several locations on the lake, such as the Urban Surf, the S.U.P. Yoga Seattle, and the S.U.P. Lake Union. Paddle board rental fees are subject to fluctuations based on several factors, including the time of year, the length of rental, and the specific type of board selected. However, it is typical for prices to fall within the range of $20 to $40 per hour.
• Seaplane tours: Embarking on seaplane tours involves soaring through the skies aboard a compact aircraft with the ability to touch down and ascend from the tranquil waters below gracefully. Seaplane tours can be a unique and thrilling way to see the lake and the city from a different perspective, as you can soar in the sky and admire the panoramic views and landmarks. You can also feel the adrenaline and the excitement as you experience the takeoff and the landing on the water. You can book a seaplane tour from several locations on the lake, such as Kenmore Air, the Seattle Seaplanes, and the Seattle Scenic Flights. The tour rates vary depending on the season, the duration, and the destination, but they usually range from $100 to $200 per person.

These are just some examples of the water activities you can try on Lake Union. There are also other water activities that you can try, such as fishing, swimming, and boating. 

The Costs and Damages of Using Jet Skis in Saltwater and How to Avoid Them

One of the reasons why jet skis are not allowed on Lake Union is that they are designed for freshwater use, not saltwater use.

Saltwater can cause a lot of damage and corrosion to the jet ski engine, hull, and parts, reducing the jet ski’s performance, lifespan, and value. Saltwater can also increase the maintenance and repair costs of the jet ski, as you will need to clean, rinse, and lubricate your jet ski more frequently and thoroughly.

If you want to use your jet ski in saltwater, such as on Puget Sound or the Pacific Ocean, you should know the costs and damages of using jet skis in saltwater and how to avoid them. This section will explain some common problems and solutions for using jet skis in saltwater.

Engine Problems

The engine is the most essential and vulnerable part of the jet ski, and it can suffer much damage from saltwater. Saltwater can enter the engine through the cooling system, the exhaust system, or the air intake system, and it can cause the following problems:

• Rust and corrosion: Saltwater can react with the metal parts of the engine and cause rust and corrosion, which can weaken and wear out the engine components, such as the pistons, the cylinders, the valves, and the bearings. Rust and corrosion can also clog and block the engine passages and reduce the engine’s efficiency and power.
• Overheating: Saltwater can also interfere with the engine’s cooling system and cause overheating, damaging the engine components and causing the engine to seize or fail. Overheating can also increase fuel consumption and engine emissions and affect the performance and economy of the jet ski.
• Electrolysis: Saltwater can also create an electric current between the different engine metals and cause electrolysis, a chemical process that dissolves the engine’s metal parts. Electrolysis can also produce hydrogen gas, which can explode and cause fire or injury.

To avoid these engine problems, you should do the following:

• Use a saltwater-resistant engine: If you plan to use your jet ski in saltwater regularly, consider buying a jet ski with a saltwater-resistant engine, such as a four-stroke engine or a closed-loop cooling system. These engines are designed to prevent or minimize saltwater entry and protect the engine components from rust and corrosion.
• Flush the engine: If you occasionally use your jet ski in salt water, flush the engine with fresh water after each use. Flushing the engine means running fresh water through the engine to remove any saltwater, sand, or debris that may have entered the engine. You can wash the engine using a garden hose and a flush kit, available at most jet ski dealers or online. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the flush kit’s instructions for flushing the engine properly and safely.
• Lubricate the engine: You should also lubricate it with anti-corrosion spray or fogging oil after flushing it. Lubricating the engine means spraying or injecting a protective layer of oil on the engine components to prevent rust and corrosion. You can lubricate the engine using a spray can or a fogging kit, also available at most jet ski dealers or online. You should follow the manufacturer’s instructions and the spray can’s or fogging kit’s instructions for lubricating the engine properly and safely.

The Costs and Damages of Using Jet Skis in Saltwater and How to Avoid Them

One of the reasons why jet skis are not allowed on Lake Union is that they are designed for freshwater use, not saltwater use. Saltwater can cause a lot of damage and corrosion to the jet ski engine, hull, and parts, reducing the jet ski’s performance, lifespan, and value. Saltwater can also increase the maintenance and repair costs of the jet ski, as you will need to clean, rinse, and lubricate your jet ski more frequently and thoroughly.

If you want to use your jet ski in saltwater, such as on Puget Sound or the Pacific Ocean, you should know the costs and damages of using jet skis in saltwater and how to avoid them. This section will explain some common problems and solutions for using jet skis in saltwater.

Part Problems

The parts are the accessories and components of the jet ski, and they can also suffer a lot of damage from saltwater. Saltwater can corrode and rust the metal parts, such as the steering, the throttle, the impeller, and the pump.

Saltwater can also degrade and crack the rubber and plastic parts, such as the hoses, the seals, the gaskets, and the cables. Saltwater can also affect the electrical and electronic parts, such as the battery, the spark plugs, the ignition, and the gauges.

To avoid these part problems, you should do the following:

• Use saltwater-resistant parts: If you plan to use your jet ski in saltwater regularly, you should consider buying a jet ski that has saltwater-resistant parts, such as stainless steel, aluminum, or titanium parts. These parts are designed to resist or prevent corrosion and rust from saltwater, last longer, and perform better.
• Replace the parts: If you occasionally use your jet ski in saltwater, replace the parts before and after each use. Replacing the parts means changing the old and worn-out parts with new and fresh parts. You should also inspect the parts for damage or wear and replace them accordingly. You can replace the parts yourself or hire a professional jet ski part replacement service.
• Clean and rinse the parts: After each use, you should also clean and rinse the parts with fresh water. Washing and rinsing the parts means removing any saltwater, sand, or debris that may have stuck to the parts. You can pass and rinse the parts using a garden hose, brush, or cloth. You should also dry the parts with a towel or a blower to prevent any moisture from remaining on the parts.

Conclusion

Hopely you understand why jet skiing is not allowed in Lake Union, as we have explained everything you need to know about the jet ski regulations in Lake Union.

You and I have learned something new and valuable about the jet ski situation on Lake Union. If you have any questions or comments, leave them below for us.