eFoil regulations & spots in Sweden

Swedish law does not name eFoils explicitly but treats them as vattenskoter — motor-driven personal watercraft under 4 m intended for one person — under Förordning (1993:1053) om användning av vattenskoter, administered by Transportstyrelsen and enforced by Kustbevakningen (Coast Guard) and Polismyndigheten. Section 2 of the ordinance permits vattenskoter use only in allmän farled (general shipping lanes) and in water areas specifically designated by each länsstyrelse (County Administrative Board); outside these areas, use is prohibited.

Each of Sweden's 21 counties publishes its own list of permitted zones. Counties designate areas under three statutory criteria (Section 3): heavily human-impacted waters where noise causes no significant nuisance; waters distant from dwellings with low natural/cultural value; and areas where use causes no public disturbance or ecological harm. Foiling-active regions (Stockholm archipelago, Bohuslän/Västra Götaland, Skåne) each have specific designated zones — riders must consult the relevant länsstyrelse map before launching. Allemansrätten (right of public access) does not extend to motorized watercraft, so motor use is restricted regardless of public-access principles.

A nationwide förarbevis för vattenskoter has been mandatory since 1 May 2022 for anyone born on or after 1 January 2007 operating in Swedish waters. It requires minimum 15 hours combined theory and practical training at a Transportstyrelsen-approved provider, plus a passing exam. Certificate fee is 300 SEK; the physical card is an additional 200 SEK. The certificate must be carried with valid ID while operating. Minimum age is 15. Operators must under Section 3b adapt route, speed and manner so people and animals are not unnecessarily disturbed; local fartsbegränsningar (5–7 knots is typical) are set by länsstyrelse and apply.

Penalties under Section 5 of Förordning 1993:1053 include fines (penningböter) for operating outside designated areas, and operating without the required förarbevis is a criminal offense subject to fines under Lag 2021:626. Coast Guard and Police conduct active enforcement. eFoils in particular are not separately defined, so classification follows the established vattenskoter regime. SOU 2022:49 reviewed broader reforms and the 1993 ordinance has remained in force pending replacement legislation — riders should re-check Transportstyrelsen for any new rule before each season.