Pete, thats not it. There are federal regulations for boat types. The closest boat types for layout boats are canoes/kayaks, rowboats, or outboard under 20 feet. Typically layout boats do not meet the definition of a kayak because the beam is to wide. So the Coast Guard puts them in the category of a rowboat unless a motor is added onto it. This means they need flotation, capacity label, HIN, and a certification label. I have a PDF of the chart showing all the different boat types but I cannot figure out how to download and attach. Here are some definitions from 33 CFR 183 of the legal definitions for boats.
Boat means any vessel?
(1) Manufactured or used primarily for noncommercial use;
(2) Leased, rented, or chartered to another for the latter's noncommercial use; or
(3) Operated as an uninspected passenger vessel subject to the requirements of 46 CFR chapter I, subchapter C.
Vessel includes every description of watercraft, other than a seaplane on the water, used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water.
If you want more info on federal requirements for boat manufacturers search for 33 CFR 181 and 33 CFR 183. The US Codes for recreational boats is at 46 USC 43. 46 USC 4307 Prohibited Acts is a good thing for people to read. The legal codes are for the manufacturer and sale of boats recreational boats. For info on safety equipment or other regulations look here. http://www.uscgboating.org/regulations/default.aspx
Darren Not to nitpick Darren but a Busik style boat is not used for transportation.