Navigating California’s Waters: A Fisherman’s Guide to Documented vs. State Registered Vessels
Posted on September 19, 2023 by Tanner Saraspe
“Documented” and “state registered” are terms often used in the context of maritime law and vessel registration.
They refer to two different methods of registering vessels, each with its own set of regulations and benefits.
The main difference between a documented boat/vessel and an undocumented boat/vessel lies in their registration and certification processes. A documented boat/vessel is registered with the U.S. Coast Guard and holds a marine certificate, while an undocumented boat/vessel is registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and lacks a marine certificate from the U.S. Coast Guard. Additionally, documented boats/vessels are not required to be registered with the DMV, whereas undocumented boats/vessels must undergo registration through the DMV
Documented Vessels:
A documented vessel is one that is registered with the federal government, typically with the country’s maritime authority or equivalent agency. In the case of San Diego fishermen, the appropriate agency is U.S. Coast Guard. This process is often called “documentation” and involves obtaining a Certificate of Documentation (COD). In the United States, the U.S. Coast Guard is responsible for vessel documentation. This form of registration provides the vessel with a unique identification number (official number) and grants certain legal benefits, such as the ability to engage in coastwise trade (transporting passengers or goods between U.S. ports) and the use of the vessel as collateral for financing.
Documented vessels are subject to federal laws and regulations and must comply with Coast Guard safety standards. The vessel’s ownership and any encumbrances are recorded in a federal database. This registration method is usually used for larger vessels that engage in commercial activities, such as cargo ships, larger yachts, passenger vessels, and commercial fishing vessels. For those seeking a safety decal, indicating they are in compliance with Coast Guard Safety requirements, you can use the Checklist Generator at www.fishsafewest.info to see what is applicable for your operation. For questions contact US Coast Guard sector San Diego, lead for commercial fishing vessel safety James Stellflug at james.b.stellflug@uscg.mil.
In order to commercially fish in San Diego you are required to have the following:
- Certificate of Documentation (COD) kept on file (to be renewed once a year, unless specifically requested for 5-year COD) this document will include your associated “Official Number”
- Pass the Commercial Vessel Safety exam and receive a Commercial Vessel Safety Decal (Valid for 2 years)
In California- Documented vessels:
- Are those that have been registered with the U.S. Coast Guard
- These vessels are not required to be registered with the California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) for state-level registration
- Documented vessels receive a unique federal documentation number from the U.S. Coast Guard
- They are subject to federal maritime laws and regulations, and they might have certain privileges related to coastwise trade and financing
State Registered Vessels (DMV):
State registration, as the name suggests, involves registering a vessel with the state in which the vessel is primarily operated or domiciled. This form of registration is often used for smaller recreational boats, personal watercraft, non-commercial vessels, and in some cases commercial fishing vessels. State registration requirements and regulations vary from state to state, but they generally involve providing information about the vessel’s ownership, type, and size, as well as paying a registration fee. State registration may also require displaying registration numbers and stickers on the vessel. State registered vessels are subject to state laws and regulations, including safety requirements and boating regulations.
In California- State Registered Vessels:
- State registered vessels in California are those that are registered directly with the California DMV
- These vessels are not federally documented and do not have an official number issued by the U.S. Coast Guard
- State registered vessels are subject to California state laws, regulations, and boating requirements
- They are required to display state registration numbers and decals on their hulls.
The main differences between documented and state registered vessels lie in the scope of registration, the governing authorities, the legal benefits, and the types of vessels typically registered using each method.
Disclaimer:
It’s important to note that this blog post is based on industry knowledge available up to the date of publication. However, regulations and requirements can evolve over time. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, it’s essential to consult with relevant agencies and authorities to ensure that there haven’t been any recent changes that might impact the legal aspects of selling bluefin tuna commercially. Keeping in touch with the appropriate sources will help you navigate the ever-changing landscape of fishing regulations and ensure compliance with the latest guidelines.