The Marine Patrol Bureau is a unit of the Department of Safety primarily responsible for enforcing New Hampshire’s boating laws and administering recreational boating programs. The Bureau is comprised of full and part-time law enforcement personnel, all dedicated to ensuring safe boating upon New Hampshire waters.
What We Do
New Hampshire state laws and Department of Safety Administrative Rules determine Marine Patrol functions and responsibilities. Generally, the Marine Patrol is responsible for following fundamental activities:
Enforcement of state boating laws and administrative rules. Enforcement of state criminal laws. Investigation of all boating accidents and drownings. Providing seacoast security. Installation, maintenance, and removal of state owned marine aids to navigation. Inspection of commercial vessels and testing of commercial operators.
Where We Operate
Marine Patrol has enforcement authority on all bodies of water having 10 acres or more, as well as rivers and tidal waters. Marine Patrol Headquarters is located in Gilford, although officers are assigned to work throughout the State.
When We Operate
Marine Patrol operates 365 days per year, with a primary operational period ranging from early May to the middle of October. Patrols are conducted in all weather and water conditions and at all times of the day and night depending upon enforcement requirements.
Contact Us
Business Hours: 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., Monday through Friday In an emergency situation, call 603-293-2037 or 877-642-9700. TDD Access: Relay NH 1-800-735-2964 Mailing Addresses: Telephone/E-mail: Bureau of Marine Patrol Division of Safety Services 31 Dock Road Gilford, NH 03249 603-293-2037 1-877-642-9700 (toll free) 603-293-0096 (fax) marinepatrol@safety.state.nh.us