West Coast Region Highly Migratory Species Vessel Identification Requirements

This request is for extension of a current information collection. Regulations at 50 CFR 660.704 require that all commercial fishing vessels with permits issued under authority of the National Marine Fishery Service’s (NMFS) Fishery Management Plan for United States (U.S.) West Coast Highly Migratory Species Fisheries display the vessel’s official number (U.S. Coast Guard documentation number or state registration number). The numbers must be of a specific size and format and located at specified locations. The official number must be affixed to each vessel subject to this section in block Arabic numerals at least 10 inches (25.40 centimeters in height for vessels more than 25 feet (7.62 meters) but equal to or less than 65 feet (19.81 meters) in length; and 18 inches (45.72 centimeters) in height for vessels longer than 65 feet (19.81 meters) in length. Markings must be legible and of a color that contrasts with the background. The display of the identifying number aids in fishery law enforcement. This requirement does not apply to recreational charter vessels.

The latest form for West Coast Region Highly Migratory Species Vessel Identification Requirements expires 2027-07-31 and can be found here.

Highly Migratory Species (non-purse seine less than 400mt)

Federal Enterprise Architecture: Natural Resources - Conservation, Marine and Land Management