The following is the dealer plate guidelines agreed on between the MMTA and Dick Murray, Director, Mass. Environmental Police, and will be the guidelines used by field officers. These were originally proposed in our May 2001 Newsletter.

1. Dealers using their dealer plates must also have some identification of their dealership prominently displayed. For example “XYZ Boat Co.” on a banner or placard in addition to the dealer’s registration numbers. Size to be at least as large as the registration numbers and in contrast to the background.

2. The original dealer registration MUST be on board the boat operating with dealer plates. No duplicate copies will be allowed under any circumstances.

3. For in-water boat show delivery or an event where more boats will be demonstrated than individual dealer plates have been issued, the dealer shall request permission from the Environmental Police for these additional boats, listing their HIN, length, manufacture, and usage dates involved. Temporary permission, when given, will be sent the dealer prior to such usage. The boats involved shall have a dealer placard or banner prominently displayed and the temporary permission slip carried on board. Dealers requesting additional permanent numbers should apply to the Environmental Police.

4. Lost dealer numbers will NOT be replaced and shall be reported to the Environmental Police immediately. A new number will be issued upon proper application to the Registry.

5. In a situation where a dealer cannot immediately register and title a vessel – for example, a sale occurring over a weekend or holiday – the dealer may allow the buyer to use the dealer’s plates with the boat properly placarded (see 1. above) until title is passed and boat properly registered. Any infractions occurring during such use is the responsibility of the dealer.