US Coast Guard Registration For The EEZ – All You Need To Know

The United States Coast Guard (USCG) may not be the first thing that springs to mind when you consider commercial fishing. You may link the Coast Guard with our armed forces due to its role as a defensive group protecting American seas. However, the USCG plays a vital role in ensuring the sustainable use of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) for commercial fishing. One key aspect of this is the Coast Guard registration as well as the documentation required for commercial fishing vessels operating within the EEZ.

As you may be aware from dealing with government paperwork in the past, it may become somewhat complex. It can be difficult to navigate complex websites, speak with a professional by phone, and even determine which paperwork you need. In addition, understanding fine print and official jargon is not always simple. At the Commercial Fishing Permits Center, we make it simple to submit your paperwork online.

What is the EEZ?

The Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) is an area that stretches from the coast, or, in federal systems, from the seaward limits of the constituent states (often 3 to 12 nautical miles) to 200 nautical miles (370 kilometers) offshore. In this area, the governments claim and use their sovereign rights and control over all fish and fishing resources on the continental shelf.

According to the NOAA, the U.S. has “sovereign rights for the purpose of exploring, exploiting, conserving, and managing natural resources, whether living or nonliving, of the seabed and subsoil and the superjacent waters, and with regard to other activities for the economic exploitation and exploration of the zone, such as the production of energy from the water, currents, and winds,” making it an area of importance for commercial fishermen.

A Better and Faster Way to Obtain the Necessary Documentation

Obtaining the necessary permits and documentation can be done through our private online portal. This allows for a streamlined and efficient process for commercial fishers to obtain the necessary permission to operate within the EEZ. At the Commercial Fishing Permits Center, we provide a convenient and secure way for fisheries to submit their information and pay any associated fees. This not only makes the process more efficient for all commercial fishermen but also allows the USCG to more easily monitor commercial fishing activity within the EEZ, helping ensure sustainable use of this valuable resource.

It is important for commercial fishermen to understand the importance of obtaining the correct documentation and permits to operate within the EEZ. Not only is it a legal requirement, but it also helps to protect the sustainability of the fishing industry, allowing for the continued harvesting of fish and other marine resources for generations to come. 

What Types of USCG Documentation Are Necessary?

You should be aware that not all vessels require documentation from the United States Coast Guard. While it is available to all vessels, including those used for enjoyment, only particular conditions will make its use mandatory. You need to get a Certificate of Documentation (COD) from the USCG if you want to do commercial fishing in federal waters. If you are fishing in an EEZ and your vessel weighs more than five tons, you will be required to carry documentation.

Obviously, even if you do not require Coast Guard documentation, there are benefits to completing Form CG-1258. First, you will not be required to display an unattractive registration number. Instead, only your ship’s name and calling port are necessary. Having a Coast Guard Certificate of Documentation can also facilitate international travel, as this certification will expedite your passage through foreign ports.

We Can Assist You in Obtaining the Required License

There are numerous varieties of commercial and industrial fishing licenses, including registrations, endorsements, and stamps. If you are considering the capture and sale of fish as a side or principal business, acquiring the appropriate license should be a top priority.

Completing forms, submitting documentation, and navigating costly fees can be stressful. Our seasoned customer service agents can assist you in acquiring the fishing license required to conduct your business. We provide numerous simplified, user-friendly forms, and our secure gateway ensures that your application is processed promptly and thoroughly.

Online Documentation and Permits for Commercial Fishing

If getting paperwork from the United States Coast Guard appeals to you as a commercial vessel owner, you have several alternatives for getting it. You can work directly with the USCG by downloading the necessary forms from their website, manually completing them, and mailing them back. You can also reach out to us at the Commercial Fishing Permits Center if you want a more complete and faster service.

We provide simple web forms for online Coast Guard documentation processing. Furthermore, we have a plethora of commercial and industrial fishing permit applications for all major US locations. To learn more, please contact us immediately.