Personal Watercraft Ban Struck Down Washington County Regulated ‘Wet Bikes’

A judge on Monday struck down San Juan County’s ban on personal watercraft, the small “wet bikes” that some residents call noisy nuisances which damage the marine ecosystem.

Whatcom County Superior Court Judge Steven J. Mura said the strict ban, which included a $50 first-offense fine for simply putting one of the watercraft in the water, is in conflict with state laws governing use of waterways.

“It’s a total victory,” said lawyer Jeff Johnson, who represented 10 different petitioners who had sued San Juan County. Plaintiffs included the Personal Watercraft Industry Association and the Port of Lopez.

Deputy Prosecutor John Krall said, “I’m amazed, frankly,” when told of the judge’s decision. “I didn’t see it (the case) that way.”

The county ordered the ban on the small craft, such as Jet Skis, in February after more than 1,000 of the 12,000 residents of the picturesque county signed petitions favoring the harsh limits.

The ban’s supporters said the watercraft are noisy, threaten the safety of swimmers and other boaters, could harm marine life and don’t fit in with the serenity of the San Juan Islands.