Where Can I Run My Radio Controlled Boats?

Cool! You just bought a new RC boat or maybe you're considering a purchase - but where can you use your new goodies? This depends both on the type of boat and also on local ordinances.
I will break down for you the best areas to use your boat depending on whether it is an electric RC boat, nitro/gas RC boat, or an RC sailboat.

But first - no matter what - please do not use your RC boat near swimmers or large power boats. Powerful radio controlled boats can cause severe damage to human beings or can be completely ruined by a motorboat or jet ski. Now, to determine where to use your boat you must know your radio transmitter's range as well as your RC boat's battery/fuel life.
If you plan to use your boat in a very large pool of water, be sure to have a retrieval system ready in case you lose your power or run out of range. Secondly, know the cleanliness of the water.

No matter what type of boat you have, seaweed can get caught on your propeller or your keel, bogging it down and possibly sinking it.
If you really want to run it in murky water, go for it, but once again, be prepared with a retrieval system - or get ready to swim.

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As a third point, water conditions make a big difference in how much fun you'll be able to have with your RC boat. This is where hull design comes into play.

Mono-hull and V-hull boats can handle a lot more chop than the hydroplane or catamaran designs as those boats are meant to skim across still waters.

Finally, take notice of any other RCers around.

Even RC planes or cars can cause interference, taking away control of your boat or causing you to control theirs.
Electric radio controlled boats are perfect for use (especially smaller models) in a small backyard pool or at a local park pond.

Electric boats are great because they are small enough to be used in tight spaces and quiet enough to be used in almost any public place.
Nitro radio controlled boats and radio controlled gas boats can pose a threat in public places.
Not only because they are faster than electric RC boats, but also because they are much, much louder. If you are wary of confrontation, contact your local authorities before using this type of boat in a public place - you may be breaking local noise ordinances. For the most fun and enjoyment out of these boats, try to find a larger area.
Figure for an area of at least 30 meters (100 feet). Radio controlled sailboats are a breed of their own.
They are quite finicky according to conditions above and below the water.
Sailboats have an especially long keel, so be sure to avoid areas filled with seaweed.
Always consider wind strength as strong and weak winds each pose their own difficulties.
Considering that conditions are right, these boats are great to use in public places as well as smaller backyard pools.

A retrieval plan is especially important with these boats, however, as your power source may go at any moment.

To find out about local laws regarding public places where you can use your boat, simply ask other RCers.

If you don't know of any and you're very concerned about it - check in with local officials at the Town Clerk's office, Village Clerk's office, or the Police Station.
So what are you waiting for! Start searching today for local parks, pools, and ponds!