E-Foil Regulations Outside Germany

Rules and regulations on how, where and when you can ride your e-foil vary from country to country. Especially in Germany, the specific regulation around water sports is mostly up to the federal states. In Bavaria, e-foiling is even not allowed now. But how does it look around Germany?

Bodensee

Riding water skis or similar water sports equipment is allowed on Lake Constance when visibility is clear. However, driving with e-foils on Lake Constance is still prohibited until now.

Switzerland

In Switzerland, non-motorized boards such as surfboards or standup paddleboards are allowed but must be marked with the name and address of the owner. Motorized boards like electric surfboards are not allowed.

Austria

In Austria, hydrofoils are legally classified as floats. Driving on waterways is not allowed. In Austria, a patent is required for watercraft over 4.4 kW. For all other watercraft powered directly or indirectly by internal combustion engines, a license is required even below 4.4 kW.

For lakes and other waters, there are local differences, which must be inquired about in each case. The local offices in Austria can be found at the Federal Ministry for Climate Protection, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation, and Technology (BMK).

At these lakes in Austria e-foil are generally allowed:

- Mondsee

- Lake Wolfgang

- Lake Fuschl

- Lake Attersee

- Wallersee

Please check before each trip if you are allowed to drive there. Individual regulations can change quickly.

Lake Garda

On Lake Garda e-foiling is allowed.

The legal framework especially for a still-young water sport like e-foiling can change quickly. Please inform yourself about the current legal conditions before arrival.