571—37.12(462A) Display of number on vessel.

1. 37.12(1)  The identification number awarded to any vessel under the Iowa numbering system shall be displayed thereon by being:

   1. a. Painted on, or attached to, each side of the bow (i.e., the forward half) of the vessel; read from left to right, and in such position as to provide maximum visibility.
   2. b. In block characters of good proportion not less than three inches in height.
   3. c. Of a color that will contrast with the color of the background (i.e., dark numbers on a light background, or light numbers on a dark background) and so maintained as to be clearly visible and legible.
2. 37.12(2)  On vessels propelled by sail only, the numbers may be placed in such a position as to provide maximum visibility, on each side of the bow or deck or on each side of the boom or mast. In all cases except placement on the mast, the numbers shall read from left to right and comply with 37.12(1)“b” and “c.” In placement on the mast, the number shall read from top to bottom and comply with 37.12(1)“b” and “c.”
3. 37.12(3)  Purchase and attachment of these letters and numbers is the responsibility of the vessel owner.
4. 37.12(4)  No other number shall be carried or displayed on the bow of the vessel.

[ARC 9219C, IAB 5/14/25, effective 6/18/25]