Section R. 281.1104 - GeneralRule 4.
(1) The state uniform waterway marking system has been developed to provide means to convey to the small vessel operator, in particular, adequate guidance to indicate safe boating channels by indicating the presence of either natural or artificial obstructions or hazards, marking restricted or controlled areas, and providing directions. The uniform waterway marking system is suited for use in all water areas and designed to satisfy the needs of all types of small vessels. It supplements and is generally compatible with the United States coast guard lateral system aids to navigation.(2) The uniform waterway marking system consists of 2 categories of aids to navigation which are: (a) A system of regulatory markers to indicate to a vessel operator the existence of dangerous areas as well as those which are restricted or controlled, such as speed zones and areas dedicated to a particular use, or to provide general information and directions.(b) A system of aids to navigation to supplement the federal lateral system of buoyage.Mich. Admin. Code R. 281.1104