1625-0019 Stat/Authority

SUBCHAPTER E—INLAND NAVIGATION RULES
83.34 Maneuvering and warning signals
(Rule 34).
83.35 Sound signals in restricted visibility
(Rule 35).
83.36 Signals to attract attention (Rule 36).
83.37 Distress signals (Rule 37).

PART 83—RULES
Subpart A—General
Sec.
83.01
83.02
83.03

Application (Rule 1).
Responsibility (Rule 2).
General definitions (Rule 3).

Subpart E—Exemptions
83.38

Subpart B—Steering and Sailing Rules

AUTHORITY: Sec. 303, Pub. L. 108–293, 118
Stat. 1042 (33 U.S.C. 2071); Department of
Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.

CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN ANY CONDITION OF
VISIBILITY

SOURCE: 79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, unless
otherwise noted.

83.04 Application (Rule 4).
83.05 Look-out (Rule 5).
83.06 Safe speed (Rule 6).
83.07 Risk of collision (Rule 7).
83.08 Action to avoid collision (Rule 8).
83.09 Narrow channels (Rule 9).
83.10 Traffic separation schemes (Rule 10).

Subpart A—General

CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE
ANOTHER
83.11 Application (Rule 11).
83.12 Sailing vessels (Rule 12).
83.13 Overtaking (Rule 13).
83.14 Head-on situation (Rule 14).
83.15 Crossing situation (Rule 15).
83.16 Action by give-way vessel (Rule 16).
83.17 Action by stand-on vessel (Rule 17).
83.18 Responsibilities between vessels (Rule
18).
CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN RESTRICTED
VISIBILITY
83.19 Conduct of vessels in restricted visibility (Rule 19).

Subpart C—Lights and Shapes

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83.20 Application (Rule 20).
83.21 Definitions (Rule 21).
83.22 Visibility of lights (Rule 22).
83.23 Power-driven vessels underway (Rule
23).
83.24 Towing and pushing (Rule 24).
83.25 Sailing vessels underway and vessels
under oars (Rule 25).
83.26 Fishing vessels (Rule 26).
83.27 Vessels not under command or restricted in their ability to maneuver
(Rule 27).
83.28 [Reserved] (Rule 28).
83.29 Pilot vessels (Rule 29).
83.30 Vessels anchored, aground and moored
barges (Rule 30).
83.31 Seaplanes (Rule 31).

Subpart D—Sound and Light Signals
83.32
83.33

Exemptions (Rule 38).

Definitions (Rule 32).
Equipment for sound signals (Rule 33).

§ 83.01 Application (Rule 1).
(a) These Rules apply to all vessels
upon the inland waters of the United
States, and to vessels of the United
States on the Canadian waters of the
Great Lakes to the extent that there is
no conflict with Canadian law. The regulations in this subchapter (subchapter
E, 33 CFR parts 83 through 90) have preemptive effect over State or local regulation within the same field.
(b)(i) These Rules constitute special
rules made by an appropriate authority
within the meaning of Rule 1(b) of the
International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, including annexes currently in force for the
United States (‘‘International Regulations’’).
(ii) All vessels complying with the
construction and equipment requirements of the International Regulations
are considered to be in compliance
with these Rules.
(c) Nothing in these Rules shall
interfere with the operation of any special rules made by the Secretary of the
Navy with respect to additional station
or signal lights and shapes or whistle
signals for ships of war and vessels proceeding under convoy, or by the Secretary with respect to additional station or signal lights and shapes for
fishing vessels engaged in fishing as a
fleet. These additional station or signal
lights and shapes or whistle signals
shall, so far as possible, be such that
they cannot be mistaken for any light,
shape, or signal authorized elsewhere

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.03

under these Rules. Notice of such special rules shall be published in the FEDERAL REGISTER and, after the effective
date specified in such notice, they shall
have effect as if they were a part of
these Rules.
(d) Traffic separation schemes may
be established for the purpose of these
Rules. Vessel traffic service regulations may be in effect in certain areas.
(e) Whenever the Secretary determines that a vessel or class of vessels
of special construction or purpose cannot comply fully with the provisions of
any of these Rules with respect to the
number, position, range, or arc of visibility of lights or shapes, as well as to
the disposition and characteristics of
sound-signaling appliances, the vessel
shall comply with such other provisions in regard to the number, position,
range, or arc of visibility of lights or
shapes, as well as to the disposition
and characteristics of sound-signaling
appliances, as the Secretary shall have
determined to be the closest possible
compliance with these Rules. The Secretary may issue a certificate of alternative compliance for a vessel or class
of vessels specifying the closest possible compliance with these Rules. The
Secretary of the Navy shall make these
determinations and issue certificates
of alternative compliance for vessels of
the Navy.
(f) The Secretary may accept a certificate of alternative compliance
issued by a contracting party to the
International Regulations if it determines that the alternative compliance
standards of the contracting party are
substantially the same as those of the
United States.
(g) The operator of each self-propelled vessel 12 meters or more in
length shall carry, on board and maintain for ready reference, a copy of
these Rules.

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§ 83.02

Responsibility (Rule 2).

(a) Nothing in these Rules shall exonerate any vessel, or the owner, master,
or crew thereof, from the consequences
of any neglect to comply with these
Rules or of the neglect of any precaution which may be required by the
ordinary practice of seamen, or by the
special circumstances of the case.

(b) In construing and complying with
these Rules due regard shall be had to
all dangers of navigation and collision
and to any special circumstances, including the limitations of the vessels
involved, which may make a departure
from these Rules necessary to avoid
immediate danger.
§ 83.03 General definitions (Rule 3).
For the purpose of these Rules and
Subchapter E, except where the context otherwise requires:
(a) The word vessel includes every description of water craft, including nondisplacement craft, WIG craft and seaplanes, used or capable of being used as
a means of transportation on water.
(b) The term power-driven vessel
means any vessel propelled by machinery.
(c) The term sailing vessel means any
vessel under sail provided that propelling machinery, if fitted, is not being
used.
(d) The term vessel engaged in fishing
means any vessel fishing with nets,
lines, trawls, or other fishing apparatus which restricts maneuverability,
but does not include a vessel fishing
with trolling lines or other fishing apparatus which do not restrict maneuverability.
(e) The word seaplane includes any
aircraft designed to maneuver on the
water.
(f) The term vessel not under command
means a vessel which, through some
exceptional circumstance, is unable to
maneuver as required by these Rules
and is therefore unable to keep out of
the way of another vessel.
(g) The term vessel restricted in her
ability to maneuver means a vessel
which, from the nature of her work, is
restricted in her ability to maneuver as
required by these Rules and is therefore unable to keep out of the way of
another vessel. The term vessels restricted in their ability to maneuver include, but are not limited to:
(i) A vessel engaged in laying, servicing, or picking up a navigation mark,
submarine cable, or pipeline;
(ii) a vessel engaged in dredging, surveying, or underwater operations;
(iii) a vessel engaged in replenishment or transferring persons, provisions, or cargo while underway;

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§ 83.04

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

(iv) a vessel engaged in the launching
or recovery of aircraft;
(v) a vessel engaged in mine clearance operations;
(vi) a vessel engaged in a towing operation such as severely restricts the
towing vessel and her tow in their ability to deviate from their course.
(h) [Reserved]
(i) The word underway means that a
vessel is not at anchor, or made fast to
the shore, or aground.
(j) The words length and breadth of a
vessel mean her length overall and
greatest breadth.
(k) Vessels shall be deemed to be in
sight of one another only when one can
be observed visually from the other.
(l) The term restricted visibility means
any condition in which visibility is restricted by fog, mist, falling snow,
heavy rainstorms, sandstorms, or any
other similar causes.
(m) The term Wing-In-Ground (WIG)
craft means a multimodal craft which,
in its main operational mode, flies in
close proximity to the surface by utilizing surface-effect action.
(n) Western Rivers means the Mississippi River, its tributaries, South
Pass, and Southwest Pass, to the navigational demarcation lines dividing the
high seas from harbors, rivers, and
other inland waters of the United
States, and the Port Allen-Morgan City
Alternate Route, and that part of the
Atchafalaya River above its junction
with the Port Allen-Morgan City Alternate Route including the Old River and
the Red River.
(o) Great Lakes means the Great
Lakes and their connecting and tributary waters including the Calumet
River as far as the Thomas J. O’Brien
Lock and Controlling Works (between
mile 326 and 327), the Chicago River as
far as the east side of the Ashland Avenue Bridge (between mile 321 and 322),
and the Saint Lawrence River as far
east as the lower exit of Saint Lambert
Lock.
(p) Secretary means the Secretary of
the Department in which the Coast
Guard is operating.
(q) Inland Waters means the navigable
waters of the United States shoreward
of the navigational demarcation lines
dividing the high seas from harbors,
rivers, and other inland waters of the

United States and the waters of the
Great Lakes on the United States side
of the International Boundary.
(r) Inland Rules or Rules means these
Inland Navigational Rules and the annexes thereto, which govern the conduct of vessels and specify the lights,
shapes, and sound signals that apply on
inland waters.
(s) International Regulations means
the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, 1972, including annexes currently in force for the
United States.

Subpart B—Steering and Sailing
Rules
CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN ANY CONDITION
OF VISIBILITY
§ 83.04

Application (Rule 4).

Rules 4 through 10 (§§ 83.04 through
83.10) apply in any condition of visibility.
§ 83.05

Look-out (Rule 5).

Every vessel shall at all times maintain a proper look-out by sight and
hearing as well as by all available
means appropriate in the prevailing
circumstances and conditions so as to
make a full appraisal of the situation
and of the risk of collision.
§ 83.06

Safe speed (Rule 6).

Every vessel shall at all times proceed at a safe speed so that she can
take proper and effective action to
avoid collision and be stopped within a
distance appropriate to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions. In determining a safe speed the following factors shall be among those taken into
account:
(a) By all vessels:
(i) The state of visibility;
(ii) The traffic density including concentration of fishing vessels or any
other vessels;
(iii) The maneuverability of the vessel with special reference to stopping
distance and turning ability in the prevailing conditions;
(iv) At night, the presence of background light such as from shore lights
or from back scatter of her own lights;

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.08

(v) The state of wind, sea, and current, and the proximity of navigational
hazards;
(vi) The draft in relation to the available depth of water.
(b) Additionally, by vessels with
operational radar:
(i) The characteristics, efficiency and
limitations of the radar equipment;
(ii) Any constraints imposed by the
radar range scale in use;
(iii) The effect on radar detection of
the sea state, weather, and other
sources of interference;
(iv) The possibility that small vessels, ice and other floating objects may
not be detected by radar at an adequate range;
(v) The number, location, and movement of vessels detected by radar;
(vi) The more exact assessment of the
visibility that may be possible when
radar is used to determine the range of
vessels or other objects in the vicinity.
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2012–0102, 79 FR 68621, Nov. 18, 2014]

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§ 83.07

Risk of collision (Rule 7).

(a) Every vessel shall use all available means appropriate to the prevailing circumstances and conditions
to determine if risk of collision exists.
If there is any doubt such risk shall be
deemed to exist.
(b) Proper use shall be made of radar
equipment if fitted and operational, including long-range scanning to obtain
early warning of risk of collision and
radar plotting or equivalent systematic
observation of detected objects.
(c) Assumptions shall not be made on
the basis of scanty information, especially scanty radar information.
(d) In determining if risk of collision
exists the following considerations
shall be among those taken into account:
(i) Such risk shall be deemed to exist
if the compass bearing of an approaching vessel does not appreciably change.
(ii) Such risk may sometimes exist
even when an appreciable bearing
change is evident, particularly when
approaching a very large vessel or a
tow or when approaching a vessel at
close range.

§ 83.08 Action to avoid collision (Rule
8).
(a) Any action taken to avoid collision shall be taken in accordance with
the Rules of this subpart (Rules 4–19)
(§§ 83.04 through 83.19) and shall, if the
circumstances of the case admit, be
positive, made in ample time and with
due regard to the observance of good
seamanship.
(b) Any alteration of course and/or
speed to avoid collision shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, be large
enough to be readily apparent to another vessel observing visually or by
radar; a succession of small alterations
of course and/or speed should be avoided.
(c) If there is sufficient sea room, alteration of course alone may be the
most effective action to avoid a closequarters situation provided that it is
made in good time, is substantial and
does not result in another close-quarters situation.
(d) Action taken to avoid collision
with another vessel shall be such as to
result in passing at a safe distance. The
effectiveness of the action shall be
carefully checked until the other vessel is finally past and clear.
(e) If necessary to avoid collision or
allow more time to assess the situation, a vessel shall slacken her speed or
take all way off by stopping or reversing her means of propulsion.
(f)(i) A vessel which, by any of these
Rules, is required not to impede the
passage or safe passage of another vessel shall, when required by the circumstances of the case, take early action to allow sufficient sea room for
the safe passage of the other vessel.
(ii) A vessel required not to impede
the passage or safe passage of another
vessel is not relieved of this obligation
if approaching the other vessel so as to
involve risk of collision and shall,
when taking action, have full regard to
the action which may be required by
the Rules of Subpart B (Rules 4–19).
(iii) A vessel the passage of which is
not to be impeded remains fully
obliged to comply with the Rules of
Subpart B (Rules 4–19) when the two
vessels are approaching one another so
as to involve risk of collision.

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§ 83.09

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

§ 83.09 Narrow channels (Rule 9).
(a)(i) A vessel proceeding along the
course of a narrow channel or fairway
shall keep as near to the outer limit of
the channel or fairway which lies on
her starboard side as is safe and practicable.
(ii) Notwithstanding paragraph (a)(i)
of this Rule and Rule 14(a) (§ 83.14(a)), a
power-driven vessel operating in narrow channels or fairways on the Great
Lakes, Western Rivers, or waters specified by the Secretary, and proceeding
downbound with a following current
shall have the right-of-way over an
upbound vessel, shall propose the manner and place of passage, and shall initiate the maneuvering signals prescribed by Rule 34(a)(i) (§ 83.34(a)(i)), as
appropriate. The vessel proceeding
upbound against the current shall hold
as necessary to permit safe passing.
(b) A vessel of less than 20 meters in
length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the passage of a vessel that can
safely navigate only within a narrow
channel or fairway.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing shall
not impede the passage of any other
vessel navigating within a narrow
channel or fairway.
(d) A vessel must not cross a narrow
channel or fairway if such crossing impedes the passage of a vessel which can
safely navigate only within such channel or fairway. The latter vessel must
use the signal prescribed in Rule 34(d)
(§ 83.34(d)) if in doubt as to the intention of the crossing vessel.
(e)(i) In a narrow channel or fairway
when overtaking, the power-driven vessel intending to overtake another
power-driven vessel shall indicate her
intention by sounding the appropriate
signal
prescribed
in
Rule
34(c)
(§ 83.34(c)) and take steps to permit safe
passing. The power-driven vessel being
overtaken, if in agreement, shall sound
the same signal and may, if specifically
agreed to, take steps to permit safe
passing. If in doubt she shall sound the
danger signal prescribed in Rule 34(d)
(§ 83.34(d)).
(ii) This Rule does not relieve the
overtaking vessel of her obligation
under Rule 13 (§ 83.13).
(f) A vessel nearing a bend or an area
of a narrow channel or fairway where
other vessels may be obscured by an in-

tervening obstruction shall navigate
with particular alertness and caution
and shall sound the appropriate signal
prescribed in Rule 34(e) (§ 83.34(e)).
(g) Any vessel shall, if the circumstances of the case admit, avoid
anchoring in a narrow channel.
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2015–0433, 80 FR 44280, July 27, 2015]

§ 83.10 Traffic
separation
schemes
(Rule 10).
(a) This Rule applies to traffic separation schemes and does not relieve
any vessel of her obligation under any
other Rule in subchapter E.
(b) A vessel using a traffic separation
scheme shall:
(i) Proceed in the appropriate traffic
lane in the general direction of traffic
flow for that lane;
(ii) So far as practicable keep clear of
a traffic separation line or separation
zone;
(iii) Normally join or leave a traffic
lane at the termination of the lane, but
when joining or leaving from either
side shall do so at as small an angle to
the general direction of traffic flow as
practicable.
(c) A vessel shall, so far as practicable, avoid crossing traffic lanes but
if obliged to do so shall cross on a
heading as nearly as practicable at
right angles to the general direction of
traffic flow.
(d)(i) A vessel shall not use an
inshore traffic zone when she can safely use the appropriate traffic lane
within the adjacent traffic separation
scheme. However, vessels of less than
20 meters in length, sailing vessels, and
vessels engaged in fishing may use the
inshore traffic zone.
(ii) Notwithstanding paragraph (d)(i)
of this Rule, a vessel may use an
inshore traffic zone when en route to or
from a port, offshore installation or
structure, pilot station, or any other
place situated within the inshore traffic zone, or to avoid immediate danger.
(e) A vessel other than a crossing vessel or a vessel joining or leaving a lane
shall not normally enter a separation
zone or cross a separation line except:
(i) In cases of emergency to avoid immediate danger;
(ii) To engage in fishing within a separation zone.

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.14

(f) A vessel navigating in areas near
the terminations of traffic separation
schemes shall do so with particular
caution.
(g) A vessel shall so far as practicable
avoid anchoring in a traffic separation
scheme or in areas near its terminations.
(h) A vessel not using a traffic separation scheme shall avoid it by as wide
a margin as is practicable.
(i) A vessel engaged in fishing shall
not impede the passage of any vessel
following a traffic lane.
(j) A vessel of less than 20 meters in
length or a sailing vessel shall not impede the safe passage of a power-driven
vessel following a traffic lane.
(k) A vessel restricted in her ability
to maneuver when engaged in an operation for the maintenance of safety of
navigation in a traffic separation
scheme is exempted from complying
with this Rule to the extent necessary
to carry out the operation.
(l) A vessel restricted in her ability
to maneuver when engaged in an operation for the laying, servicing, or picking up of a submarine cable, within a
traffic separation scheme, is exempted
from complying with this Rule to the
extent necessary to carry out the operation.
CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN SIGHT OF ONE
ANOTHER

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§ 83.11 Application (Rule 11).
Rules 11 through 18 (§§ 83.11 through
83.18) apply to vessels in sight of one
another.
§ 83.12 Sailing vessels (Rule 12).
(a) When two sailing vessels are approaching one another, so as to involve
risk of collision, one of them shall keep
out of the way of the other as follows:
(i) When each has the wind on a different side, the vessel which has the
wind on the port side shall keep out of
the way of the other.
(ii) When both have the wind on the
same side, the vessel which is to windward shall keep out of the way of the
vessel which is to leeward.
(iii) If a vessel with the wind on the
port side sees a vessel to windward and
cannot
determine
with
certainty
whether the other vessel has the wind

on the port or on the starboard side,
she shall keep out of the way of the
other.
(b) For the purpose of this Rule, the
windward side shall be deemed to be
the side opposite to that on which the
mainsail is carried or, in the case of a
square-rigged vessel, the side opposite
to that on which the largest fore-andaft sail is carried.
§ 83.13

Overtaking (Rule 13).

(a) Notwithstanding anything contained in Rules 4 through 18 (§§ 83.04
through 83.18), any vessel overtaking
any other shall keep out of the way of
the vessel being overtaken.
(b) A vessel shall be deemed to be
overtaking when coming up with another vessel from a direction more
than 22.5 degrees abaft her beam; that
is, in such a position with reference to
the vessel she is overtaking, that at
night she would be able to see only the
sternlight of that vessel but neither of
her sidelights.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as
to whether she is overtaking another,
she shall assume that this is the case
and act accordingly.
(d) Any subsequent alteration of the
bearing between the two vessels shall
not make the overtaking vessel a
crossing vessel within the meaning of
these Rules or relieve her of the duty
of keeping clear of the overtaken vessel until she is finally past and clear.
§ 83.14

Head-on situation (Rule 14).

(a) Unless otherwise agreed, when
two power-driven vessels are meeting
on reciprocal or nearly reciprocal
courses so as to involve risk of collision each shall alter her course to starboard so that each shall pass on the
port side of the other.
(b) Such a situation shall be deemed
to exist when a vessel sees the other
ahead or nearly ahead and by night she
could see the masthead lights of the
other in a line or nearly in a line and/
or both sidelights and by day she observes the corresponding aspect of the
other vessel.
(c) When a vessel is in any doubt as
to whether such a situation exists she
shall assume that it does exist and act
accordingly.

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§ 83.15

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

(d) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of
this Rule, a power-driven vessel operating on the Great Lakes, Western Rivers, or waters specified by the Secretary, and proceeding downbound with
a following current shall have the
right-of-way over an upbound vessel,
shall propose the manner of passage,
and shall initiate the maneuvering signals
prescribed
by
Rule
34(a)(i)
(§ 83.34(a)(i)), as appropriate.
§ 83.15 Crossing situation (Rule 15).
(a) When two power-driven vessels
are crossing so as to involve risk of collision, the vessel which has the other
on her starboard side shall keep out of
the way and shall, if the circumstances
of the case admit, avoid crossing ahead
of the other vessel.
(b) Notwithstanding paragraph (a) of
this Rule, on the Great Lakes, Western
Rivers, or water specified by the Secretary, a power-driven vessel crossing a
river shall keep out of the way of a
power-driven vessel ascending or descending the river.

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§ 83.16 Action by give-way vessel (Rule
16).
Every vessel which is directed to
keep out of the way of another vessel
shall, so far as possible, take early and
substantial action to keep well clear.
§ 83.17 Action by stand-on vessel (Rule
17).
(a)(i) Where one of two vessels is to
keep out of the way, the other shall
keep her course and speed.
(ii) The latter vessel may, however,
take action to avoid collision by her
maneuver alone, as soon as it becomes
apparent to her that the vessel required to keep out of the way is not
taking appropriate action in compliance with these Rules.
(b) When, from any cause, the vessel
required to keep her course and speed
finds herself so close that collision cannot be avoided by the action of the
give-way vessel alone, she shall take
such action as will best aid to avoid
collision.
(c) A power-driven vessel which takes
action in a crossing situation in accordance with paragraph (a)(ii) of this
Rule to avoid collision with another
power-driven vessel shall, if the cir-

cumstances of the case admit, not alter
course to port for a vessel on her own
port side.
(d) This Rule does not relieve the
give-way vessel of her obligation to
keep out of the way.
§ 83.18 Responsibilities between vessels (Rule 18).
Except where Rules 9, 10, and 13
(§§ 83.09, 83.10, and 83.13) otherwise require:
(a) A power-driven vessel underway
shall keep out of the way of:
(i) A vessel not under command;
(ii) A vessel restricted in her ability
to maneuver;
(iii) A vessel engaged in fishing;
(iv) A sailing vessel.
(b) A sailing vessel underway shall
keep out of the way of:
(i) A vessel not under command;
(ii) A vessel restricted in her ability
to maneuver; and
(iii) A vessel engaged in fishing.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing when
underway shall, so far as possible, keep
out of the way of:
(i) A vessel not under command; and
(ii) A vessel restricted in her ability
to maneuver.
(d) [Reserved]
(e) A seaplane on the water shall, in
general, keep well clear of all vessels
and avoid impeding their navigation.
In circumstances, however, where risk
of collision exists, she shall comply
with the Rules of this Subpart (Rules
4–19) (§§ 83.04 through 83.19); and
(f)(i) a WIG craft shall, when taking
off, landing and in flight near the surface, keep well clear of all other vessels
and avoid impeding their navigation;
and
(ii) a WIG craft operating on the
water surface shall comply with the
Rules of this Subpart (Rules 4–19)
(§§ 83.04 through 83.19) as a power-driven vessel.
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2012–0102, 79 FR 68621, Nov. 18, 2014]

CONDUCT OF VESSELS IN RESTRICTED
VISIBILITY
§ 83.19 Conduct of vessels in restricted
visibility (Rule 19).
(a) This Rule applies to vessels not in
sight of one another when navigating

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.21

in or near an area of restricted visibility.
(b) Every vessel shall proceed at a
safe speed adapted to the prevailing
circumstances and conditions of restricted visibility. A power-driven vessel shall have her engines ready for immediate maneuver.
(c) Every vessel shall have due regard
to the prevailing circumstances and
conditions of restricted visibility when
complying with Rules 4 through 10
(§§ 83.04 through 83.10).
(d) A vessel which detects by radar
alone the presence of another vessel
shall determine if a close-quarters situation is developing and/or risk of collision exists. If so, she shall take avoiding action in ample time, provided that
when such action consists of an alteration of course, so far as possible the
following shall be avoided:
(i) An alteration of course to port for
a vessel forward of the beam, other
than for a vessel being overtaken;
(ii) An alteration of course toward a
vessel abeam or abaft the beam.
(e) Except where it has been determined that a risk of collision does not
exist, every vessel which hears apparently forward of her beam the fog signal of another vessel, or which cannot
avoid a close-quarters situation with
another vessel forward of her beam,
shall reduce her speed to the minimum
at which she can be kept on course.
She shall if necessary take all her way
off and, in any event, navigate with extreme caution until danger of collision
is over.
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2015–0433, 80 FR 44280, July 27, 2015]

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Subpart C—Lights and Shapes
§ 83.20 Application (Rule 20).
(a) Rules in this subpart (Rules 20–31)
(§§ 83.20 through 83.31) shall be complied
with in all weathers.
(b) The Rules concerning lights
(§§ 83.20 through 83.31) shall be complied
with from sunset to sunrise, and during
such times no other lights shall be exhibited, except such lights as cannot be
mistaken for the lights specified in
these Rules or do not impair their visibility or distinctive character, or interfere with the keeping of a proper lookout.

(c) The lights prescribed by these
Rules shall, if carried, also be exhibited
from sunrise to sunset in restricted visibility and may be exhibited in all
other circumstances when it is deemed
necessary.
(d) The Rules concerning shapes shall
be complied with by day.
(e) The lights and shapes specified in
these Rules shall comply with the provisions of Annex I of these Rules (33
CFR part 84).
(f) A vessel’s navigation lights and
shapes may be lowered if necessary to
pass under a bridge.
§ 83.21 Definitions (Rule 21).
(a) Masthead light means a white
light placed over the fore and aft centerline of the vessel showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of
225 degrees and so fixed as to show the
light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees
abaft the beam on either side of the
vessel, except that on a vessel of less
than 12 meters in length the masthead
light shall be placed as nearly as practicable to the fore and aft centerline of
the vessel.
(b) Sidelights mean a green light on
the starboard side and a red light on
the port side each showing an unbroken light over an arc of the horizon of
112.5 degrees and so fixed as to show
the light from right ahead to 22.5 degrees abaft the beam on its respective
side. On a vessel of less than 20 meters
in length the side lights may be combined in one lantern carried on the fore
and aft centerline of the vessel, except
that on a vessel of less than 12 meters
in length the sidelights when combined
in one lantern shall be placed as nearly
as practicable to the fore and aft centerline of the vessel.
(c) Sternlight means a white light
placed as nearly as practicable at the
stern showing an unbroken light over
an arc of the horizon of 135 degrees and
so fixed as to show the light 67.5 degrees from right aft on each side of the
vessel.
(d) Towing light means a yellow light
having the same characteristics as the
‘‘sternlight’’ defined in paragraph (c) of
this Rule.
(e) All-round light means a light showing an unbroken light over an arc of
the horizon of 360 degrees.

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§ 83.22

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

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(f) Flashing light means a light flashing at regular intervals at a frequency
of 120 flashes or more per minute.
(g) Special flashing light means a yellow light flashing at regular intervals
at a frequency of 50 to 70 flashes per
minute, placed as far forward and as
nearly as practicable on the fore and
aft centerline of the tow and showing
an unbroken light over an arc of the
horizon of not less than 180 degrees nor
more than 225 degrees and so fixed as
to show the light from right ahead to
abeam and no more than 22.5 degrees
abaft the beam on either side of the
vessel.
§ 83.22 Visibility of lights (Rule 22).
The lights prescribed in these Rules
(Subpart C) shall have an intensity as
specified in Annex I to these Rules (33
CFR part 84), so as to be visible at the
following minimum ranges:
(a) In a vessel of 50 meters or more in
length:
(i) A masthead light, 6 miles;
(ii) A sidelight, 3 miles;
(iii) A sternlight, 3 miles;
(iv) A towing light, 3 miles;
(v) A white, red, green or yellow allround light, 3 miles; and
(vi) A special flashing light, 2 miles.
(b) In a vessel of 12 meters or more in
length but less than 50 meters in
length:
(i) A masthead light, 5 miles; except
that where the length of the vessel is
less than 20 meters, 3 miles;
(ii) A sidelight, 2 miles;
(iii) A sternlight, 2 miles;
(iv) A towing light, 2 miles;
(v) A white, red, green or yellow allround light, 2 miles; and
(vi) A special flashing light, 2 miles.
(c) In a vessel of less than 12 meters
in length—
(i) A masthead light, 2 miles;
(ii) A sidelight, 1 mile;
(iii) A sternlight, 2 miles;
(iv) A towing light, 2 miles;
(v) A white, red, green or yellow allround light, 2 miles; and
(vi) A special flashing light, 2 miles.
(d) In an inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or objects being towed:
(i) A white all-round light, 3 miles.
(ii) [Reserved]
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2012–0102, 79 FR 68621, Nov. 18, 2014]

§ 83.23 Power-driven vessels underway
(Rule 23).
(a) A power-driven vessel underway
shall exhibit:
(i) A masthead light forward;
(ii) A second masthead light abaft of
and higher than the forward one; except that a vessel of less than 50 meters
in length shall not be obliged to exhibit
such light but may do so;
(iii) Sidelights; and
(iv) A sternlight.
(b) An air-cushion vessel when operating in the non-displacement mode
shall, in addition to the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule,
exhibit an all-round flashing yellow
light where it can best be seen.
(c) A WIG craft only when taking off,
landing and in flight near the surface
shall, in addition to the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule,
exhibit a high intensity all-round
flashing red light.
(d) A power-driven vessel of less than
12 meters in length may, in lieu of the
lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of
this Rule, exhibit an all-round white
light and sidelights.
(e) A power-driven vessel when operating on the Great Lakes may carry an
all-round white light in lieu of the second masthead light and sternlight prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule.
The light shall be carried in the position of the second masthead light and
be visible at the same minimum range.
§ 83.24 Towing and pushing (Rule 24).
(a) A power-driven vessel when towing astern shall exhibit:
(i) Instead of the light prescribed either in Rule 23(a)(i) or 23(a)(ii)
(§§ 83.23(a)(i) and (ii)), two masthead
lights in a vertical line. When the
length of the tow, measuring from the
stern of the towing vessel to the after
end of the tow exceeds 200 meters,
three such lights in a vertical line;
(ii) Sidelights;
(iii) A sternlight;
(iv) A towing light in a vertical line
above the sternlight; and
(v) When the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters, a diamond shape
where it can best be seen.
(b) When a pushing vessel and a vessel being pushed ahead are rigidly connected in a composite unit they shall

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.25

be regarded as a power-driven vessel
and exhibit the lights prescribed in
Rule 23 (§ 83.23).
(c) A power-driven vessel when pushing ahead or towing alongside, except
as required by paragraphs (b) and (i) of
this Rule, shall exhibit:
(i) Instead of the light prescribed either in Rule 23(a)(i) or 23(a)(ii)
(§ 83.23(a)(i) or (ii)), two masthead
lights in a vertical line;
(ii) Sidelights; and
(iii) Two towing lights in a vertical
line.
(d) A power-driven vessel to which
paragraphs (a) or (c) of this Rule apply
shall also comply with Rule 23(a) (i)
and 23(a)(ii)(§ 83.23(a)(i) or (ii)).
(e) A vessel or object other than
those referred to in paragraph (g) of
this Rule being towed shall exhibit:
(i) Sidelights;
(ii) A sternlight; and
(iii) When the length of the tow exceeds 200 meters, a diamond shape
where it can best be seen.
(f) Provided that any number of vessels being towed alongside or pushed in
a group shall be lighted as one vessel,
except as provided in paragraph (f)(iii)
of this Rule.
(i) A vessel being pushed ahead, not
being part of a composite unit, shall
exhibit at the forward end, sidelights
and a special flashing light.
(ii) A vessel being towed alongside
shall exhibit a sternlight and at the
forward end, sidelights and a special
flashing light.
(iii) When vessels are towed alongside
on both sides of the towing vessel, a
sternlight shall be exhibited on the
stern of the outboard vessel on each
side of the towing vessel, and a single
set of sidelights as far forward and as
far outboard as is practicable, and a
single special flashing light.
(g) An inconspicuous, partly submerged vessel or object, or combination of such vessels or objects being
towed, shall exhibit:
(i) If it is less than 25 meters in
breadth, one all-round white light at or
near each end;
(ii) If it is 25 meters or more in
breadth, four all-round white lights to
mark its length and breadth;
(iii) If it exceeds 100 meters in length,
additional all-round white lights be-

tween the lights prescribed in paragraphs (g)(i) and (ii) of this Rule so
that the distance between the lights
shall not exceed 100 meters: provided,
that any vessels or objects being towed
alongside each other shall be lighted as
one vessel or object;
(iv) A diamond shape at or near the
aftermost extremity of the last vessel
or object being towed; and
(v) The towing vessel may direct a
searchlight in the direction of the tow
to indicate its presence to an approaching vessel.
(h) Where from any sufficient cause
it is impracticable for a vessel or object being towed to exhibit the lights
prescribed in paragraph (e) or (g) of
this Rule, all possible measures shall
be taken to light the vessel or object
towed or at least to indicate the presence of such vessel or object.
(i) Notwithstanding paragraph (c) of
this Rule, on the Western Rivers (except below the Huey P. Long Bridge at
mile 106.1 Above Head of Passes on the
Mississippi River) and on waters specified by the Secretary, a power-driven
vessel when pushing ahead or towing
alongside, except as paragraph (b) of
this Rule applies, shall exhibit:
(i) Sidelights; and
(ii) Two towing lights in a vertical
line.
(j) Where from any sufficient cause it
is impracticable for a vessel not normally engaged in towing operations to
display the lights prescribed by paragraph (a), (c) or (i) of this Rule, such
vessel shall not be required to exhibit
those lights when engaged in towing
another vessel in distress or otherwise
in need of assistance. All possible
measures shall be taken to indicate the
nature of the relationship between the
towing vessel and the vessel being assisted. The searchlight authorized by
Rule 36 (§ 83.36) may be used to illuminate the tow.
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2012–0102, 79 FR 68622, Nov. 18, 2014;
USCG–2015–0433, 80 FR 44280, July 27, 2015]

§ 83.25 Sailing vessels underway and
vessels under oars (Rule 25).
(a) A sailing vessel underway shall
exhibit:
(i) Sidelights; and
(ii) A sternlight.

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§ 83.26

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

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(b) In a sailing vessel of less than 20
meters in length the lights prescribed
in paragraph (a) of this Rule may be
combined in one lantern carried at or
near the top of the mast where it can
best be seen.
(c) A sailing vessel underway may, in
addition to the lights prescribed in
paragraph (a) of this Rule, exhibit at or
near the top of the mast, where they
can best be seen, two all-round lights
in a vertical line, the upper being red
and the lower green, but these lights
shall not be exhibited in conjunction
with the combined lantern permitted
by paragraph (b) of this Rule.
(d)(i) A sailing vessel of less than 7
meters in length shall, if practicable,
exhibit the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or (b) of this Rule, but if she
does not, she shall exhibit an all-round
white light or have ready at hand an
electric torch or lighted lantern showing a white light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.
(ii) A vessel under oars may exhibit
the lights prescribed in this Rule for
sailing vessels, but if she does not, she
shall exhibit an all-round white light
or have ready at hand an electric torch
or lighted lantern showing a white
light which shall be exhibited in sufficient time to prevent collision.
(e) A vessel proceeding under sail
when also being propelled by machinery shall exhibit forward, where it can
best be seen, a conical shape, apex
downward. A vessel of less than 12 meters in length is not required to exhibit
this shape, but may do so.
§ 83.26 Fishing vessels (Rule 26).
(a) A vessel engaged in fishing,
whether underway or at anchor, shall
exhibit only the lights and shapes prescribed in this Rule.
(b) A vessel when engaged in trawling, by which is meant the dragging
through the water of a dredge net or
other apparatus used as a fishing appliance, shall exhibit:
(i) Two all-round lights in a vertical
line, the upper being green and the
lower white, or a shape consisting of
two cones with their apexes together in
a vertical line one above the other;
(ii) A masthead light abaft of and
higher than the all-round green light; a

vessel of less than 50 meters in length
shall not be obliged to exhibit such a
light but may do so;
(iii) When making way through the
water, in addition to the lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights
and a sternlight.
(c) A vessel engaged in fishing, other
than trawling, shall exhibit:
(i) Two all-round lights in a vertical
line, the upper being red and the lower
white, or a shape consisting of two
cones with apexes together in a
vertical line one above the other;
(ii) When there is outlying gear extending more than 150 meters horizontally from the vessel, an all-round
white light or a cone apex upward in
the direction of the gear;
(iii) When making way through the
water, in addition to the lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights
and a sternlight.
(d) [Reserved]
(e) A vessel when not engaged in fishing shall not exhibit the lights or
shapes prescribed in this Rule, but only
those prescribed for a vessel of her
length.
(f) Additional signals for fishing vessels fishing in close proximity:
(i) The lights mentioned herein shall
be placed where they can best be seen.
They shall be at least 0.9 meters apart
but at a lower level than lights prescribed in this Rule. The lights shall be
visible all around the horizon at a distance of at least 1 mile but at a lesser
distance from the lights prescribed by
paragraphs (a) through (c) of this Rule
for fishing vessels.
(ii) Signals for trawlers.
(1) Vessels when engaged in trawling,
whether using demersal or pelagic
gear, may exhibit:
(A) When shooting their nets: Two
white lights in a vertical line;
(B) When hauling their nets: One
white light over one red light in a
vertical line;
(C) When a net has come fast upon an
obstruction: Two red lights in a
vertical line.
(2) Each vessel engaged in pair trawling may exhibit:
(A) By night, a searchlight directed
forward and in the direction of the
other vessel of the pair;

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.27

(B) When shooting or hauling their
nets or when their nets have come fast
upon an obstruction, the lights prescribed in paragraph (a) of this Rule.
(iii) Signals for purse seiners.
(1) Vessels engaged in fishing with
purse seine gear may exhibit two yellow lights in a vertical line. These
lights shall flash alternately every second and with equal light and occultation duration. These lights may be exhibited only when the vessel is hampered by its fishing gear.
(2) [Reserved]

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§ 83.27 Vessels not under command or
restricted in their ability to maneuver (Rule 27).
(a) A vessel not under command shall
exhibit:
(i) Two all-round red lights in a
vertical line where they can best be
seen;
(ii) Two balls or similar shapes in a
vertical line where they can best be
seen; and
(iii) When making way through the
water, in addition to the lights prescribed in this paragraph, sidelights
and a sternlight.
(b) A vessel restricted in her ability
to maneuver, except a vessel engaged
in mine clearance operations, shall exhibit:
(i) Three all-round lights in a
vertical line where they can best be
seen. The highest and lowest of these
lights shall be red and the middle light
shall be white;
(ii) Three shapes in a vertical line
where they can best be seen. The highest and lowest of these shapes shall be
balls and the middle one a diamond;
(iii) When making way through the
water, a masthead light or lights,
sidelights and a sternlight, in addition
to the lights prescribed in paragraph
(b)(i) of this Rule; and
(iv) When at anchor, in addition to
the lights or shapes prescribed in paragraphs (b)(i) and (ii) of this Rule, the
light, lights or shapes prescribed in
Rule 30 (§ 83.30).
(c) A vessel engaged in a towing operation which severely restricts the towing vessel and her tow in their ability
to deviate from their course shall, in
addition to the lights or shapes prescribed in paragraphs (b)(i) and (ii) of

this Rule, exhibit the lights or shapes
prescribed in Rule 24 (§ 83.24).
(d) A vessel engaged in dredging or
underwater operations, when restricted
in her ability to maneuver, shall exhibit the lights and shapes prescribed
in paragraphs (b)(i), (ii), and (iii) of
this Rule and shall in addition, when
an obstruction exists, exhibit:
(i) Two all-round red lights or two
balls in a vertical line to indicate the
side on which the obstruction exists;
(ii) Two all-round green lights or two
diamonds in a vertical line to indicate
the side on which another vessel may
pass; and
(iii) When at anchor, the lights or
shapes prescribed by this paragraph,
instead of the lights or shape prescribed in Rule 30 (§ 83.30).
(iv) Dredge pipelines that are floating or supported on trestles shall display the following lights at night and
in periods of restricted visibility.
(1) One row of yellow lights. The
lights must be:
(A) Flashing 50 to 70 times per
minute,
(B) Visible all around the horizon,
(C) Visible for at least 2 miles,
(D) Not less than 1 and not more than
3.5 meters above the water,
(E) Approximately equally spaced,
and
(F) Not more than 10 meters apart
where the pipeline crosses a navigable
channel. Where the pipeline does not
cross a navigable channel the lights
must be sufficient in number to clearly
show the pipeline’s length and course.
(2) Two red lights at each end of the
pipeline, including the ends in a channel where the pipeline is separated to
allow vessels to pass (whether open or
closed). The lights must be:
(A) Visible all around the horizon,
and
(B) Visible for at least 2 miles, and
(C) One meter apart in a vertical line
with the lower light at the same height
above the water as the flashing yellow
light.
(e) Whenever the size of a vessel engaged in diving operations makes it
impracticable to exhibit all lights and
shapes prescribed in paragraph (d) of
this Rule, as appropriate, the following
shall instead be exhibited:

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§ 83.28

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

(i) Three all-round lights in a
vertical line where they can best be
seen. The highest and lowest of these
lights shall be red and the middle light
shall be white;
(ii) A rigid replica of the International Code flag ‘‘A’’ not less than 1
meter in height. Measures shall be
taken to ensure its all-round visibility.
(f) A vessel engaged in mine clearance operations shall, in addition to
the lights prescribed for a power-driven
vessel in Rule 23 (§ 83.23) or to the
lights or shape prescribed for a vessel
at anchor in Rule 30 (§ 83.30), as appropriate, exhibit three all-round green
lights or three balls. One of these
lights or shapes shall be exhibited near
the foremast head and one at each end
of the fore yard. These lights or shapes
indicate that it is dangerous for another vessel to approach within 1000
meters of the mine clearance vessel.
(g) A vessel of less than 12 meters in
length, except when engaged in diving
operations, is not required to exhibit
the lights or shapes prescribed in this
Rule.
(h) The signals prescribed in this
Rule are not signals of vessels in distress and requiring assistance. Such
signals are contained in Annex IV to
these Rules (33 CFR part 87).

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[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2012–0102, 79 FR 68622, Nov. 18, 2014]

§ 83.28

[Reserved] (Rule 28).

§ 83.29

Pilot vessels (Rule 29).

(a) A vessel engaged on pilotage duty
shall exhibit:
(i) At or near the masthead, two allround lights in a vertical line, the
upper being white and the lower red;
(ii) When underway, in addition,
sidelights and a sternlight; and
(iii) When at anchor, in addition to
the lights prescribed in paragraph (i) of
this Rule, the anchor light, lights, or
shape prescribed in Rule 30 (§ 83.30) for
vessels at anchor.
(b) A pilot vessel when not engaged
on pilotage duty shall exhibit the
lights or shapes prescribed for a vessel
of her length.
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2015–0433, 80 FR 44280, July 27, 2015]

§ 83.30 Vessels anchored, aground and
moored barges (Rule 30).
(a) A vessel at anchor shall exhibit
where it can best be seen:
(i) In the fore part, an all-round
white light or one ball;
(ii) At or near the stern and at a
lower level than the light prescribed in
paragraph (i) of this Rule, an all-round
white light.
(b) A vessel of less than 50 meters in
length may exhibit an all-round white
light where it can best be seen instead
of the lights prescribed in paragraph
(a) of this Rule.
(c) A vessel at anchor may, and a vessel of 100 meters or more in length
shall, also use the available working or
equivalent lights to illuminate her
decks.
(d) A vessel aground shall exhibit the
lights prescribed in paragraph (a) or (b)
of this Rule and in addition, if practicable, where they can best be seen:
(i) Two all-round red lights in a
vertical line; and
(ii) Three balls in a vertical line.
(e) A vessel of less than 7 meters in
length, when at anchor, not in or near
a narrow channel, fairway, anchorage,
or where other vessels normally navigate, shall not be required to exhibit
the lights or shape prescribed in paragraphs (a) and (b) of this Rule.
(f) A vessel of less than 12 meters in
length when aground shall not be required to exhibit the lights or shapes
prescribed in paragraphs (d)(i) and (ii)
of this Rule.
(g) A vessel of less than 20 meters in
length, when at anchor in a special anchorage area designated by the Coast
Guard, shall not be required to exhibit
the anchor lights and shapes required
by this Rule.
(h) The following barges shall display
at night and if practicable in periods of
restricted visibility the lights described in paragraph (i) of this Rule:
(i) Every barge projecting into a
buoyed or restricted channel.
(ii) Every barge so moored that it reduces the available navigable width of
any channel to less than 80 meters.
(iii) Barges moored in groups more
than two barges wide or to a maximum
width of over 25 meters.
(iv) Every barge not moored parallel
to the bank or dock.

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.32

(i) Barges described in paragraph (h)
of this Rule shall carry two unobstructed all-round white lights of an
intensity to be visible for at least 1
nautical mile and meeting the technical requirements as prescribed in
Annex I (33 CFR part 84).
(j) A barge or group of barges at anchor or made fast to one or more mooring buoys or other similar device, in
lieu of the provisions of this Rule, may
carry unobstructed all-round white
lights of an intensity to be visible for
at least 1 nautical mile that meet the
requirements of Annex I (33 CFR part
84) and shall be arranged as follows:
(i) Any barge that projects from a
group formation, shall be lighted on its
outboard corners.
(ii) On a single barge moored in water
where other vessels normally navigate
on both sides of the barge, lights shall
be placed to mark the corner extremities of the barge.
(iii) On barges moored in group formation, moored in water where other
vessels normally navigate on both sides
of the group, lights shall be placed to
mark the corner extremities of the
group.
(k) The following are exempt from
the requirements of this Rule:
(i) A barge or group of barges moored
in a slip or slough used primarily for
mooring purposes.
(ii) A barge or group of barges
moored behind a pierhead.
(iii) A barge less than 20 meters in
length when moored in a special anchorage area designated in accordance
with § 109.10 of this chapter.
(l) Barges moored in well-illuminated
areas are exempt from the lighting requirements of this Rule. These areas
are as follows:

(13)
(14)
(15)
(16)
(17)
(18)
(19)
(20)
(21)
(22)
(23)
(24)
(25)
(26)
(27)

312.5 to 312.6
313.8 to 314.2
314.6
314.8 to 315.3
315.7 to 316
316.8
316.85 to 317.05
317.5
318.4 to 318.9
318.7 to 318.8
320 to 320.3
320.6
322.3 to 322.4
322.8
322.9 to 327.2
Calumet Sag Channel

(28) Mile 316.5
Little Calumet River
(29) Mile 321.2
(30) Mile 322.3
Calumet River
(31)
(32)
(33)
(34)
(35)
(36)

Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile

328.5 to 328.7
329.2 to 329.4
330 west bank to 330.2
331.4 to 331.6
332.2 to 332.4
332.6 to 332.8
Cumberland River

(37) Mile 126.8
(38) Mile 191
§ 83.31 Seaplanes (Rule 31).
Where it is impracticable for a seaplane or a WIG craft to exhibit lights
and shapes of the characteristics or in
the positions prescribed in the Rules of
this subpart, she shall exhibit lights
and shapes as closely similar in characteristics and position as is possible.

Chicago Sanitary Ship Canal

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Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile
Mile

Subpart D—Sound and Light
Signals

(1) Mile 293.2 to 293.9
(2) Mile 295.2 to 296.1
(3) Mile 297.5 to 297.8
(4) Mile 298 to 298.2
(5) Mile 298.6 to 298.8
(6) Mile 299.3 to 299.4
(7) Mile 299.8 to 300.5
(8) Mile 303 to 303.2
(9) Mile 303.7 to 303.9
(10) Mile 305.7 to 305.8
(11) Mile 310.7 to 310.9
(12) Mile 311 to 311.2

§ 83.32 Definitions (Rule 32).
(a) The word whistle means any sound
signaling appliance capable of producing the prescribed blasts and which
complies with specifications in Annex
III to these Rules (33 CFR part 86).
(b) The term short blast means a blast
of about 1 second’s duration.
(c) The term prolonged blast means a
blast of from 4 to 6 seconds’ duration.

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§ 83.33

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

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§ 83.33 Equipment for sound signals
(Rule 33).
(a) A vessel of 12 meters or more in
length shall be provided with a whistle,
a vessel of 20 meters or more in length
shall be provided with a bell in addition to a whistle, and a vessel of 100
meters or more in length shall, in addition, be provided with a gong, the tone
and sound of which cannot be confused
with that of the bell. The whistle, bell
and gong shall comply with the specifications in Annex III to these Rules (33
CFR part 86). The bell or gong or both
may be replaced by other equipment
having the same respective sound characteristics, provided that manual
sounding of the prescribed signals shall
always be possible.
(b) A vessel of less than 12 meters in
length shall not be obliged to carry the
sound signaling appliances prescribed
in paragraph (a) of this Rule but if she
does not, she shall be provided with
some other means of making an efficient sound signal.
§ 83.34 Maneuvering and warning signals (Rule 34).
(a) When power-driven vessels are in
sight of one another and meeting or
crossing at a distance within half a
mile of each other, each vessel underway, when maneuvering as authorized
or required by these Rules:
(i) Shall indicate that maneuver by
the following signals on her whistle:
(1) One short blast to mean ‘‘I intend
to leave you on my port side’’;
(2) Two short blasts to mean ‘‘I intend to leave you on my starboard
side’’; and
(3) Three short blasts to mean ‘‘I am
operating astern propulsion’’.
(ii) Upon hearing the one or two blast
signal of the other shall, if in agreement, sound the same whistle signal
and take the steps necessary to effect a
safe passing. If, however, from any
cause, the vessel doubts the safety of
the proposed maneuver, she shall sound
the danger signal specified in paragraph (d) of this Rule and each vessel
shall take appropriate precautionary
action until a safe passing agreement
is made.
(b) A vessel may supplement the
whistle signals prescribed in paragraph
(a) of this Rule by light signals:

(i) These signals shall have the following significance:
(1) One flash to mean ‘‘I intend to
leave you on my port side’’;
(2) Two flashes to mean ‘‘I intend to
leave you on my starboard side’’;
(3) Three flashes to mean ‘‘I am operating astern propulsion’’;
(ii) The duration of each flash shall
be about 1 second; and
(iii) The light used for this signal
shall, if fitted, be one all-round white
or yellow light, visible at a minimum
range of 2 miles, synchronized with the
whistle, and shall comply with the provisions of Annex I to these Rules (33
CFR part 84).
(c) When in sight of one another:
(i) A power-driven vessel intending to
overtake another power-driven vessel
shall indicate her intention by the following signals on her whistle:
(1) One short blast to mean ‘‘I intend
to overtake you on your starboard
side’’;
(2) Two short blasts to mean ‘‘I intend to overtake you on your port
side’’; and
(ii) The power-driven vessel about to
be overtaken shall, if in agreement,
sound a similar sound signal. If in
doubt she shall sound the danger signal
prescribed in paragraph (d) of this
Rule.
(d) When vessels in sight of one another are approaching each other and,
from any cause, either vessel fails to
understand the intentions or actions of
the other, or is in doubt whether sufficient action is being taken by the
other to avoid collision, the vessel in
doubt shall immediately indicate such
doubt by giving at least five short and
rapid blasts on the whistle. Such signal
may be supplemented by a light signal
of at least five short and rapid flashes.
(e) A vessel nearing a bend or an area
of a channel or fairway where other
vessels may be obscured by an intervening obstruction shall sound one prolonged blast. This signal shall be answered with a prolonged blast by any
approaching vessel that may be within
hearing around the bend or behind the
intervening obstruction.
(f) If whistles are fitted on a vessel at
a distance apart of more than 100 meters, one whistle only shall be used for

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Coast Guard, DHS

§ 83.35

giving maneuvering and warning signals.
(g) When a power-driven vessel is
leaving a dock or berth, she shall sound
one prolonged blast.
(h) A vessel that reaches agreement
with another vessel in a head-on, crossing, or overtaking situation, as for example, by using the radiotelephone as
prescribed by the Vessel Bridge-toBridge Radiotelephone Act (85 Stat.
164; 33 U.S.C. 1201 et seq.), is not obliged
to sound the whistle signals prescribed
by this Rule, but may do so. If agreement is not reached, then whistle signals shall be exchanged in a timely
manner and shall prevail.

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[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2015–0433, 80 FR 44280, July 27, 2015]

§ 83.35 Sound signals in restricted visibility (Rule 35).
In or near an area of restricted visibility, whether by day or night, the
signals prescribed in this Rule shall be
used as follows:
(a) A power-driven vessel making
way through the water shall sound, at
intervals of not more than 2 minutes,
one prolonged blast.
(b) A power-driven vessel underway
but stopped and making no way
through the water shall sound, at intervals of not more than 2 minutes,
two prolonged blasts in succession,
with an interval of about 2 seconds between them.
(c) A vessel not under command; a
vessel restricted in her ability to maneuver, whether underway or at anchor; a sailing vessel; a vessel engaged
in fishing, whether underway or at anchor; and a vessel engaged in towing or
pushing another vessel shall, instead of
the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a)
or (b) of this Rule, sound, at intervals
of not more than 2 minutes, three
blasts in succession, namely, one prolonged followed by two short blasts.
(d) [Reserved]
(e) A vessel towed or if more than one
vessel is towed the last vessel of the
tow, if manned, shall at intervals of
not more than 2 minutes sound four
blasts in succession, namely, one prolonged followed by three short blasts.
When practicable, this signal shall be
made immediately after the signal
made by the towing vessel.

(f) When a pushing vessel and a vessel
being pushed ahead are rigidly connected in a composite unit they shall
be regarded as a power-driven vessel
and shall give the signals prescribed in
paragraphs (a) or (b) of this Rule.
(g) A vessel at anchor shall at intervals of not more than 1 minute ring the
bell rapidly for about 5 seconds. In a
vessel of 100 meters or more in length
the bell shall be sounded in the
forepart of the vessel and immediately
after the ringing of the bell the gong
shall be sounded rapidly for about 5
seconds in the after part of the vessel.
A vessel at anchor may in addition
sound three blasts in succession, namely, one short, one prolonged and one
short blast, to give warning of her position and of the possibility of collision
to an approaching vessel.
(h) A vessel aground shall give the
bell signal and if required the gong signal prescribed in paragraph (g) of this
Rule and shall, in addition, give three
separate and distinct strokes on the
bell immediately before and after the
rapid ringing of the bell. A vessel
aground may in addition sound an appropriate whistle signal.
(i) A vessel of 12 meters or more but
less than 20 meters in length shall not
be obliged to give the bell signals prescribed in paragraphs (g) and (h) of this
Rule. However, if she does not, she
shall make some other efficient sound
signal at intervals of not more than 2
minutes.
(j) A vessel of less than 12 meters in
length shall not be obliged to give the
above-mentioned signals but, if she
does not, shall make some other efficient sound signal at intervals of not
more than 2 minutes.
(k) A pilot vessel when engaged on pilotage duty may, in addition to the signals prescribed in paragraphs (a), (b) or
(g) of this Rule, sound an identity signal consisting of four short blasts.
(l) The following vessels shall not be
required to sound signals as prescribed
in paragraph (g) of this Rule when anchored in a special anchorage area designated by the Coast Guard:
(i) A vessel of less than 20 meters in
length; and

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§ 83.36

33 CFR Ch. I (7–1–16 Edition)

(ii) A barge, canal boat, scow, or
other nondescript craft.
[79 FR 37912, July 2, 2014, as amended by
USCG–2012–0102, 79 FR 68622, Nov. 18, 2014]

§ 83.36 Signals
(Rule 36).

to

attract

attention

If necessary to attract the attention
of another vessel, any vessel may make
light or sound signals that cannot be
mistaken for any signal authorized
elsewhere in these Rules, or may direct
the beam of her searchlight in the direction of the danger, in such a way as
not to embarrass any vessel.
§ 83.37

Distress signals (Rule 37).

When a vessel is in distress and requires assistance she shall use or exhibit the signals described in Annex IV
to these Rules (33 CFR part 87).

Subpart E—Exemptions

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§ 83.38

Exemptions (Rule 38).

Any vessel or class of vessels, the
keel of which was laid or which was at
a corresponding stage of construction
before December 24, 1980, provided that
she complies with the requirements
of—
(a) The Act of June 7, 1897 (30 Stat.
96), as amended (33 U.S.C. 154–232) for
vessels navigating the waters subject
to that statute;
(b) Section 4233 of the Revised Statutes (33 U.S.C. 301–356) for vessels navigating the waters subject to that statute;
(c) The Act of February 8, 1895 (28
Stat. 645), as amended (33 U.S.C. 241–
295) for vessels navigating the waters
subject to that statute; or
(d) Sections 3, 4, and 5 of the Act of
April 25, 1940 (54 Stat. 163), as amended
(46 U.S.C. 526b, c, and d) for motorboats
navigating the waters subject to that
statute, shall be exempted from compliance with the technical Annexes to
these Rules (33 CFR parts 84 through
88) as follows:
(i) The installation of lights with
ranges prescribed in Rule 22 (§ 83.22),
vessels of less than 20 meters in length
are permanently exempt.
(ii) The installation of lights with
color specifications as prescribed in
Annex I to these Rules (33 CFR part 84),

vessels of less than 20 meters in length
are permanently exempt.
(iii) The repositioning of lights as a
result of conversion to metric units
and rounding off measurement figures
are permanently exempt.
(iv) The horizontal repositioning of
masthead lights prescribed by Annex I
to these Rules (33 CFR part 84), vessels
of less than 150 meters in length are
permanently exempt; and
(v) Power-driven vessels of 12 meters
or more but less than 20 meters in
length are permanently exempt from
the provisions of Rule 23(a)(i) and (iv)
(§ 83.23(a)(i) and (iv)) provided that, in
place of these lights, the vessel exhibits a white light aft visible all-round
the horizon.

PART 84—ANNEX I: POSITIONING
AND TECHNICAL DETAILS OF
LIGHTS AND SHAPES
Sec.
84.01 Definitions.
84.02 Vertical positioning and spacing of
lights.
84.03 Horizontal positioning and spacing of
lights.
84.04 Details of location of direction-indicating lights for fishing vessels, dredgers
and vessels engaged in underwater operations.
84.05 Screens.
84.06 Shapes.
84.13 Color specification of lights.
84.14 Intensity of lights.
84.15 Horizontal sectors.
84.16 Vertical sectors.
84.17 Intensity of non-electric lights.
84.18 Maneuvering light.
84.19 High-speed craft.
84.20 Approval.
AUTHORITY: Sec. 303, Pub. L. 108–293, 118
Stat. 1042 (33 U.S.C. 2071); Department of
Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.
SOURCE: 79 FR 37921, July 2, 2014, unless
otherwise noted.

§ 84.01

Definitions.

(a) The term height above the hull
means height above the uppermost continuous deck. This height shall be
measured from the position vertically
beneath the location of the light.
(b) High-speed craft means a craft capable of maximum speed in meters per
second (m/s) equal to or exceeding:

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