ENVIROMENTAL PROTECTION LAWS
The U.S. Coast Guard has issued regulations to implement Annex V of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, commonly known as Annex V of the MARPOL (Marine Pollution) Treaty 73/78. They apply to all U.S. vessels wherever they operate (except waters under the exclusive jurisdiction of a State), and foreign vessels operating in U.S. waters out to and including the Exclusive Economic Zone (200 miles).
In this case concerning the size of your Sardine boat these are the most important environmental protection laws:
Discharge of Oil
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil or oily waste into or upon the navigable waters of the United States or the waters of the contiguous zone if such discharge causes a film or sheen upon or a discoloration of the surface of the water or causes a sludge or emulsion beneath the surface of the water. Violators are subject to a penalty of $5,000.
Disposal of Plastics & Other Garbage
Plastic refuse dumped in the water can kill fish and marine wildlife and can foul vessel propellers and cooling water intakes. Other forms of waterborne garbage can litter our beaches and make people sick. U.S. Coast Guard regulations completely prohibit the dumping of plastic refuse or other garbage mixed with plastic into the water anywhere and restrict the dumping of other forms of garbage within specified distances from shore.
INSIDE 3 MILES (and in U.S. Lakes, Rivers, Bays and Sounds)
- Plastic
- Dunnage, lining and packing materials that float
- Any garbage except dishwater/ graywater/fresh fish parts
3 TO 12 MILES (From shore)
- Plastic
- Dunnage, lining and packing materials that float
- Any garbage not ground to less than one square inch
12 TO 25 MILES (From shore)
- Plastic
- Dunnage, lining and packing materials that float
OUTSIDE 25 MILES (From shore)
- Plastic