(Cqui)
AUSTIN, Texas - A ban on personal watercrafts has gone into effect at Lake Austin. Personal watercraft, wet bikes, motorized surfboards and similar devices will not be allowed on Lake Austin beginning at sunset on Wednesday, July 3 and ending on Friday, July 5, 2019 at sunrise.
Non-motorized devices such as kayaks, canoes and paddle boards can still be used.
The annual ban of personal watercraft is necessary to ensure the safety of the large number of people who make use of the lake and parks over the Fourth of July holiday, according to the Austin Police Department Parks and Lake Patrol Unit. This ban only applies to Lake Austin.
Police will be patrolling Lake Austin and urge people using waterways to follow the Texas Water Safety Act and City of Austin boating laws and ordinances. Police urge all boaters to practice safe boating and to call 9-1-1 for all reckless operation of boats or emergencies.
The Austin Parks and Recreation Department and the Austin Police Department want the public to enjoy the parks and lakes but urge people to make this a safe holiday.
For more information, contact the APD Lake Patrol Unit at 512-329-8841.