Name:   Capt M Brooks - Subject:   Boat Length Date:   4/10/2014 9:49:32 PM

There are two methods of measurement. The first one, established under the actual law, Code of Alabama 33-5-3(9) states: LENGTH. Such term means measured from end to end over the deck, excluding sheer.

This is the method used to determine the length of your vessel for registration purposes and follows the traditionally-accepted LOA (length overall) method used by the USCG and boat manufacturers. Every other state that I am aware of uses the same definition.

However, for the purposes of specifically enforcing the "3 Lakes Law", the Commissioner of the Department of Conservation & Natural Resources promulgated a regulation in 2009 that gives the following instruction for length measurement, only to be used for the purposes of enforcing the particular "3 Lakes Law":

220-6-.55 (f) titled Method of Measurement of Length under Regulation 220-6-.55 titled Lake Permit Regulation: For the purposes of the administration and enforcement of Act 2006-398, Acts of Alabama, and 33-6A-3.1, Code of Alabama 1975, the length of vessels shall be determined by measuring the straight line distance between the bow to the lowest part of the transom, excluding bowsprits, outboard motor brackets, rudders or other attachments, and excluding any swim platforms whether molded into the hull construction or otherwise. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the length of the vessel as shown on the current vessel registration shall be prima facie evidence of the length of the vessel for the purposes of the administration and enforcement of Act 2006-398, Acts of Alabama and 33-6A-3.1, Code of Alabama 1975.

If you have any questions, please give us a call at the Central Division office at (256) 329-2268.