In lieu of the commercial fishing industry vessel (CFIV) classing requirements specified in 46 USC § 4503(a), certain vessels may meet alternative requirements per 46 USC § 4503(d). Specifically, this applies to Commercial Fishing Vessels (CFV) and fish tender vessels (FTV) that are between 50 and 180 feet overall in length and were built after the date of the enactment of the Coast Guard Authorization Act of 2016, effective February 8, 2016.
New Construction Oversight:
Under 46 USC §4503(d)(2), vessel construction must be overseen and certified as compliant with its design by a marine surveyor from an organization approved by the Secretary. A list of organizations approved by the Secretary can be accessed at:
Post Construction Surveys:
Post-construction surveys required under 46 USC §4503(d)(5), (6), and (7) include condition surveys, out-of-water surveys, and compliance verification measures. These surveys must be conducted by a marine surveyor from an organization approved by the Secretary. A list of organizations approved by the Secretary to verify compliance with 46 USC §4503(d)(5), (6), and (7) can be accessed at:
Documentation:
Throughout the vessel's lifespan, the owner must keep records demonstrating compliance with the requirements outlined in 46 USC §4503 and ensure these records are readily accessible for inspection by an authorized U.S. Coast Guard representative.