Question about PFD requirement for inflatable pontoon boat. Another guy in a pontoon said he got a ticket last year since he did Not have a PFD. I agree it is wise to have some sort of PFD... just don't know if legally required. I would expect Not. Searched around net but didn't find good abswer. Does anybody have info on this?

Here what the Washington Boater's Guide says:

"Since May 1, 1995, boats less than 16 feet long must have a WEARABLE PFD on board for each person. This includes canoes and kayaks. Type IV cushions or ring buoys do not meet this requirement."

You can get a Washington Boater's Guide from:

Boating Safety Program
Washington State Parks
7150 Cleanwater Lane
Olympia, WA 98504-2654
(360)902-8551

Hope this helps you out!

Maybe your inflatable pontoon boat is considered a personal water craft (PWC), like a jet ski or towable inflatable, in which case you need to wear a PFD. You can call someone in the Coast Guard Auxillary and they can answer the question, or call the Coast Guard Boating Safety information line at 1-800-336-BOAT (2628). Hope this helps. Wear the PFD anyhow, just because. Take care!