Public dock protocol

[Kamper]

Originally Posted by Bear Islander

I have moved many boats when they were blocking or parked stupid.

Last year I politely asked a man to move because the Mailboat was coming. He said there was no sign and he was here first! I untied his ropes, dropped them in his boat, gave a push and said "have a nice day".

I personally aplaud your action but it may have been illegal.

There was a recent post about unauthorised docking and it was pointed out there is a USCG reg against untieing a boat's lines without the operator's permission. The likely exceptions are law enforcement officers or dock masters at a governement facility. If you are the Bear Island Post Master then I think you could get away with it.

I'm sure it is legal to move a boat to open up dockage but any one that does this may be liable for any damages during movement or if the boat goes adrift later.

Good luck!

[Bear Islander]

You may be talking about this.

Section 270:26-a
270:26-a Interference with a Vessel. – No person shall, without the consent of the owner of the vessel, wilfully and maliciously cut away or let loose any vessel which is fastened to any mooring place or lying at anchor. Whoever violates the provisions of this section shall be guilty of a violation.

Moving a boat to another post is not letting it loose.

And when it comes to the Mailboat incident, I am still not guilty. My actions were willful but not malicious, I was kindly helping him correct his error.

[Kamper]

Originally Posted by Bear Islander

You may be talking about this.

Section 270:26-a
270:26-a Interference with a Vessel. ... wilfully and maliciously ...

... My actions were willful but not malicious, I was kindly helping him correct his error.

lol. Thank goodnes for a well placed "and."

"Your honor, he maliciously wished me a good day. I was so traumatised I almost dropped my beer."