Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has copped a $250 fine for failing to wear a lifejacket while moving a dinghy on the waters near his Sydney harbourside mansion.

NSW Roads and Maritime Services confirmed: "A $250 fine will apply to the Prime Minister who was not wearing a life jacket when moving his dinghy a short distance earlier this week."

A spokesman for Malcolm Turnbull said the Prime Minister would pay the $250 fine. Credit:Facebook

The executive director of the maritime division, Angus Mitchell, said safety was paramount on NSW waters and the fine dished out to the PM was a "timely reminder during the holiday season to always wear a lifejacket".

Mr Turnbull, who is enjoying a stay-cation with his wife Lucy at their lavish Point Piper home, was moving the vessel about 20 metres from a jetty back to a beach adjoining the house.