Connecticut State Boat Launches Open with Safety Guidance from DEEP

The Connecticut Department of Energy and Environmental Protection (DEEP) has announced that state-managed boat launches are open for public use. DEEP oversees 117 boat launches across the state and will closely monitor conditions as the weather warms and boating demand increases. Officials say public access could be adjusted when necessary to protect the safety of boaters and DEEP staff.

Practical Safety Guidelines for Using Boat Launches

To help boaters recreate responsibly during the ongoing public health situation, DEEP has issued straightforward, common-sense recommendations to reduce risk at launches and on the water. These measures are designed to keep individuals and staff safe while allowing Connecticut residents to enjoy boating and outdoor recreation.

• Limit group sizes. Boaters are asked to limit gatherings to no more than five people at launches and on shore to reduce close contact and crowding.
• Maintain social distance. Everyone should keep at least six feet of distance from people who are not members of the same household while on ramps, docks, and parking areas.
• Launch and depart quickly. When using a ramp, prepare efficiently and clear the area as soon as your boat is launched to avoid creating bottlenecks and unnecessary interaction.
• Boat only with cohabitants. Recreational outings are recommended with household members or others you already live with to minimize exposure between separate social circles.
• Recreate locally. DEEP encourages local recreation to limit travel and reduce pressure on popular launches that may attract larger crowds.

On-the-Water Practices to Minimize Risk

DEEP’s guidance also addresses behavior once boaters are on the water. These recommendations aim to prevent close contact and sharing of items that could transmit infection between parties.

• Avoid tying up to other vessels. Boaters should refrain from rafting, rafting-up, or otherwise tying boats together with vessels from other households.
• Do not share equipment. Avoid lending or borrowing fishing gear, paddles, lifejackets, or other boating equipment with people outside your household.
• Use protective measures at fuel and pumpout stations. Wear gloves and other appropriate protective equipment when handling fuel pumps or using pumpout facilities to reduce contact with high-touch surfaces.

Operational Changes and Monitoring

Peter Francis, Director of DEEP’s Boating Division, acknowledged the public’s enthusiasm for boating and emphasized the importance of safe recreation: “We know our boating community is passionate about getting on the water, and we want to ensure they can recreate safely.” DEEP continues to develop plans for the state’s most popular launches and may implement measures such as reduced parking capacity at certain locations to prevent overcrowding.

State officials describe the situation as fluid and say they will adapt policies as conditions change. Boaters should be prepared for temporary or location-specific restrictions and follow any posted instructions at launch sites.

How Boaters Can Help

Boaters play a key role in keeping launches safe and accessible. Follow posted rules, plan ahead to limit time at ramps, and respect social distancing and group-size recommendations. If you are sick, symptomatic, or have been exposed to illness, postpone your boating trip to protect others. Responsible behavior helps DEEP maintain access to public launches for the broader community.

DEEP has published a full list of guidelines and encourages boaters to review that guidance before heading to a launch. By following the recommended practices—limiting group size, keeping distance, not sharing equipment, and taking extra precautions at fuel and pumpout facilities—Connecticut boaters can enjoy time on the water while minimizing health risks to themselves and others.