Coast Guard Establishes Naval Vessel Protection Zone

Portsmouth, Va. – Following the recent terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, D.C., U.S. Coast Guard Atlantic Area Commander Vice Adm. Thad Allen is establishing Naval Vessel Protection Zones effective from Sept. 14, 2001, to June 15, 2002. The zones will provide for the regulation of vessel traffic in the vicinity of U.S. naval vessels in the navigable waters of the United States. The regulations are issued under the authority contained in 14 United States Code 91.

A U.S. naval vessel is any vessel owned, operated, chartered or leased by the U.S. Navy; any vessel under the operational control of the U.S. Navy or a unified commander.

As a result, the establishment and enforcement of naval vessel protection zones is a function directly involved in and necessary to military operations and the safety and security of naval commanders and personnel.

NOTABLE DETAILS EXCERPTED FROM THE TEMPORARY REGULATION

• The official patrol may be:
• a Coast Guard commissioned officer
• the Commanding Officer of a U.S. naval vessel or his or her designee
• All vessels within 500 yards of a U.S. naval vessel must operate at the minimum speed necessary to maintain a safe course and proceed as directed by the official patrol
• Vessels are not allowed within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel, unless authorized by the official patrol
• Vessels requesting to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel must contact the official patrol on VHF-FM channel 16
• Under some circumstances, the official patrol may permit vessels that can only operate safely in a navigable channel to pass within 100 yards of a U.S. naval vessel in order to ensure a safe passage in accordance with the Navigation Rules
• Under similar conditions, commercial vessels anchored in a designated anchorage area may be permitted to remain at anchor within 100 yards of passing naval vessels

Though restrictive in nature, the effects of the temporary regulation should not prove to be significant because the protection zones are limited in size and the official patrol may allow access to the zone. Additionally, the naval vessel protection zones will effect a given location for a limited time while the vessel is in transit, along with notifications made by the Coast Guard so mariners can make adjustments.

These zones are necessary to provide for the safety and security of United States naval vessels in the navigable waters of the United States. For further information regarding the naval vessel protection zones, contact U.S. Coast Guard Cdr. Chris Doane at 757-398-6372.

PUNISHMENT FOR VIOLATING: Mariners who violate a Naval Vessel Protection Zone are subject to arrest, prosecution, and if convicted, imprisonment for up to six years and a fine of up to $250,000.

Your role in keeping our waterways safe and secure...

Keep your distance from all military, cruiseline, or commercial shipping! Do not approach within 100-yards, and slow to minimum speed within 500-yards of any U.S. naval vessel. Violators face 6 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, not to mention a quick and severe response. Observe and avoid all security zones. Avoid commercial port operation areas, especially those that involve military, cruiseline or petroleum facilities. Violators will be perceived as a threat, and will face a quick, determined and severe response. Do not stop or anchor beneath bridges or in the channel. It you do, then expect to be boarded by law enforcement officials. Keep a sharp eye out for anything that looks peculiar or out of the ordinary. Report all activities that seem suspicious to the local authorities, the Coast Guard and the port or marina security. Do not approach or challenge those acting in a suspicious manner. Wear your Lifejacket as a badge of support for your Coast Guard men & women on patrol. By displaying your commitment to safe boating, you will help reduce the demands placed on the Coast Guard’s limited resources and assets. See back for more tips on personal safety and security. Back to DYC Training and Seamanship Page Back to DYC Home Page Page Last Updated April 10, 2002