§ 13A-11-301 — Operation of Motor Vehicle on Land Submerged Below Navigable or Non-navigable Waters

Alabama § 13A-11-301

• Jurisdiction: Alabama
• Title 13A: Criminal Code
• Ch. 11: Offenses Against Public Order and Safety
• Art. 14: Offenses Relating to Motor Vehicles

Text

(a) For purposes of this section, the term “motor vehicle” means any vehicle that is self-propelled or that is drawn by a self-propelled vehicle, including an off-road vehicle, all-terrain vehicle, motorcycle, motor scooter, and motorized trail bike. The term does not include a vessel or other watercraft designed for transportation on water.
(b) An individual may not operate a motor vehicle on any land submerged below navigable or non-navigable waters in this state.
(c) An individual may not operate a motor vehicle on any land that is within the natural boundary of a creek, brook, branch, stream, or similar waterway.
(d) A person who violates subsection (b) or (c) shall be punished as follows:
(1) On a first violation, a Class C misdemeanor.
(2) On a second violation, a Class B misdemeanor.
(3) On a third and any subsequent violation, a Class A misdemeanor.
(e) This section does not apply to any of the following:
(1) The operation of a motor vehicle on lands submerged below navigable or non-navigable waters while remaining on land that the operator of the motor vehicle owns or has permission to be upon.
(2) The operation of a motor vehicle pursuant to written authorization from the Director of the State Lands Division of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources.
(3) Any utility engaged in providing retail or wholesale electric service.

Legislative History

(Act 2025-429, §1.)