What does a red square buoy indicate?

A red square buoy is used to mark a federal waterway or indicate that an area is controlled by federal regulations. These buoys guide boaters on where they can navigate with respect to federal laws and guidelines. Recognizing these buoys is essential for compliance with boating regulations, as they help ensure that vessel operators are aware of the jurisdictional boundaries that apply.

In contrast, buoys indicating a no-wake zone, restricted areas, or dangerous waterways use different shapes and colors to effectively communicate those specific messages. For instance, a yellow buoy might be used to indicate a no-wake zone, while a red triangle buoy could signal a danger or restricted area, making it important for boaters to be familiar with the buoy shapes and colors.