Rules of the Road

Code of Federal Regulations (CFR)

The U.S. Coast Guard (USCG) is responsible for establishing regulations that govern nautical chart and publication carriage requirements in U.S. waters. These regulations are found in Title 33 and Title 46 of the U.S. Code of Federal Regulations (CFR). Other recent Federal Register Notices issued by the USCG and NOAA also address current policies.

Title 46 CFR - Shipping

Title 33 CFR, Part 164 - Navigation and Navigable Waters, Navigation Safety Regulations

Title 15 CFR, Part 995 - Certification Requirements for Distributors of NOAA Hydrographic Products

Federal Register Notices

July 14, 2004: Vol. 69, No. 134 - Carriage of Navigation Equipment for Ships on International Voyages

August 15, 2002: Vol. 67, No. 158 - Carriage of Navigation Equipment for Ships on International Voyages

June 10, 2002: Vol. 67, Number 111 - Identification of Items that are "Nautical Charts" under 1974 International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea

USCG Circulars

Navigational and Vessel Inspection Circular No. 01-16 (NVIC 01-16) - Use of Electronic Charts and Publications in Lieu of Paper Charts, Maps, and Publications