Regulatory markers indicate to a vessel operator the existence of dangerous areas, as well as those areas which are restricted or controlled, such as speed zones and areas dedicated to a particular use, or to provide general information and directions:

(1) Each regulatory marker shall be colored white with international orange geometric shapes.

(2) When a buoy is used as a regulatory marker it shall be white with horizontal bands of international orange placed completely around the buoy circumference. One band shall be at the top of the buoy body, with a second band placed just above the water line of the buoy so that both international orange bands are clearly visible to approaching vessels. The area of the buoy body visible between the two bands shall be white.

(3) Geometric shapes shall be placed on the white portion of the buoy body and shall be colored international orange. The authorized geometric shapes and meanings associated with them are as follows:

(a) A vertical open faced diamond shape means danger.

(b) A vertical open faced diamond shape having a cross centered in the diamond means that a vessel is excluded from the marked area.

(c) A circular shape means that a vessel operated in the marked area is subject to certain operating restrictions.

(d) A square or rectangular shape with directions or information will have lettering on the inside.

(4) Where a regulatory marker consists of a square or rectangular shaped sign displayed from a structure, the sign shall be white with an international orange border. When a diamond or circular geometric shape associated with the meaning of the marker is included, it shall be centered on the signboard.