Boating Rules

NABNASSET LAKE RECREATIONAL/SAFETY

Below are the boating rules which were established following a study by the Westford Lakes Management Committee in August, 1989. These rules were based on state statute, and were agreed upon by ballot. Community cooperation is appreciated and will insure an enjoyable season for everyone.

  1. PROXIMITY OF MOTORBOATS TO SHORE: OPEN AREA OF LAKE.
    A motorboat cannot be operated at more than headway speed within 150 feet of the shoreline of the open area of the lake, except: Boats starting skiers from the shore area will be allowed to start the skiers from within this area PROVIDING the boat takes a direct route to the open area.
  2. MOTORBOATS OPERATING WITHIN EDWARD’S COVE & THE DAM COVE.
    Motorboats entering Edward’s cove shall not be operated at greater than headway speed within 300 feet of the Town Beach, and shall not approach within 150 feet of the Town Beach. Motorboats shall not operate in either cove at greater than headway speed within 150 feet from the shoreline within the cove. Exception: Residents of the coves may tow waterskiers from the their respective areas of residence. Residents returning waterskiers to the cove shall reasonably respect the general guidelines of the 150-foot boundary imposed on the open area
  3. MOTORBOAT SPEED – GENERAL.
    Motorboat speed on the open area of the lake shall not exceed 45 miles per hour.
  4. DIRECTION OF MOTORBOATS.
    All motorboats shall travel in a counter-clockwise direction around the lake.
  5. BOATING: AFTER SUNSET – BEFORE SUNRISE.
    Within these hours:
    a. All boats shall operate with the lights required by statute.
    b. Personal watercraft are not allowed to operate.
    c. No waterskiing.
    d. Swimmers, floats, tubes, should not be on the open lake unless accompanied by a boat or carrying a light.
    e. Motorboats shall not exceed headway speed.
  6. CANOES, SAILCRAFT, ROWBOATS, ETC.
    a. These craft should not be restricted regarding the 150-foot boundary, with the exception of SAILCRAFT.
    b. Rights of way: Coast Guard boating rules are applied.
    Non-motorized vessels have right of way over motorized vessels.
    Non-moving vessels have right of way over moving vessels.
  7. Do not lend out your boat key, it is for member’s use ONLY. Lending your boat key will result in loss of your boat key privilege indefinitely.
  8. BOAT LAUNCH HOURS: 8AM-12PM & 4PM-9PM. Launching between 12PM – 4PM will result in loss of your boat key privilege.