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National
United States Regulations
46 CFR PART 69—MEASUREMENT OF VESSELS


Title 46: Shipping





PART 69—MEASUREMENT OF VESSELS



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Authority: 46 U.S.C. 2301, 14103; Department of Homeland Security Delegation No. 0170.1.

Source: CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, unless otherwise noted.

Subpart A—General
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§ 69.1 Purpose.
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This part implements legislation concerning the measurement of vessels to determine their tonnage (part J of 46 U.S.C. subtitle II). Tonnages are required before a vessel may be documented as a vessel of the United States. Also, tonnages are used to apply commercial vessel safety regulations based on tonnage, to meet the requirements of the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969, and to determine Federal and State regulatory fees and private operational charges based on tonnage. Tonnages are determined by the physical measurement of a vessel (Convention, Standard, and Dual Measurement Systems) or by application of a formula based on the vessel's dimensions provided by the owner (Simplified Measurement System). This part indicates the particular measurement system or systems under which the vessel is required or eligible to be measured, describes the application and measurement procedures for each system, identifies the organizations authorized to measure vessels under this part, and provides for the appeal of measurement organizations' decisions.

§ 69.3 Applicability.
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This part applies to vessels of the United States over five net tons (as that tonnage is determined under this part) which are required or eligible to be measured under this part, a Federal law, or an international agreement or which are subject to a Federal law or international agreement based on the vessel's tonnage.

§ 69.5 Vessels required or eligible to be measured.
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(a) The following vessels (including public vessels) are required to be measured under this part:

(1) Vessels that are to be documented as a vessel of the United States.

(2) Vessels of 79 feet or more in overall length that engage on a foreign voyage.

(3) Vessels subject to a Federal law or regulation based on vessel tonnage.

(4) Vessels determined by the Commandant to require measurement under this part.

(b) The following vessels are not required to be measured under this part but are eligible to be measured, if the owner requests:

(1) Public vessels that are not to be documented and will not engage on a foreign voyage.

(2) Vessels of war.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 92–058, 57 FR 59938, Dec. 17, 1992]

§ 69.7 Vessels transiting the Panama and Suez Canals.
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(a) All vessels intending to transit the Panama Canal, other than vessels of war, must be measured and certificated under the system prescribed in 35 CFR part 135.

(b) All vessels intending to transit the Suez Canal must be measured and certificated under the Arab Republic of Egypt Suez Canal Authority Rules of Navigation, part IV.

(c) Panama Canal and Suez Canal tonnage certificates are in addition to tonnage certificates issued under this part.

(d) Tonnage measurement services for Panama Canal and Suez Canal certificates are provided by measurement organizations authorized by the respective canal authority.

§ 69.9 Definitions.
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As used in this part—

Commandant means Commandant of the Coast Guard at the following address: Commanding Officer, Marine Safety Center, 400 7th Street, SW., Washington, DC 20590-0001.

Convention means the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969.

Convention Measurement System means the system under subpart B of this part.

Dual Measurement System means the system under subpart D of this part.

Great Lakes means the Great Lakes of North America and the St. Lawrence River west of a rhumb line drawn from Cap des Rosiers to West Point, Anticosti Island, and, on the north side of Anticosti Island, the meridian of longitude 63 degrees west.

Gross tonnage means a vessel's approximate volume. Under the Convention Measurement System, it means the total volume of all enclosed spaces modified by a coefficient. Under the Standard and Dual Measurement Systems, it means the total volume of all enclosed spaces less certain exempt spaces. Under the Simplified Measurement Systems, it means the product of a vessel's length, depth, and breadth modified by a coefficient.

National Vessel Documentation Center means the organizational unit designated by the Commandant to process vessel documentation transactions and maintain vessel documentation records. The address can be found in §67.3 of this subchapter.

Net tonnage means a measure of a vessel's earning capacity. Under the Convention Measurement System, it means the volume of the actual cargo and passenger spaces modified by a formula based on the vessel's volume. Under the Standard and Dual Measurement Systems, it means the gross tonnage less certain deducted spaces. Under the Simplified Measurement System, it means the gross tonnage modified by a coefficient.

Overall length means the horizontal distance between the foremost part of a vessel's stem to the aftermost part of its stern, excluding fittings and attachments.

Simplified Measurement System means the system under subpart E of this part.

Standard Measurement System means the system under subpart C of this part.

Tonnage means the volume of a vessel's enclosed spaces as calculated under a measurement system in this part. Tonnage calculated under the Standard, Dual, or Simplified Measurement System is based on tons of 100 cubic feet each. Tonnage calculated under the Convention Measurement System is based on tons of 100 cubic feet modified by a logarithmic function.

Vessel engaged on a foreign voyage means a vessel—

(a) Arriving at a place under the jurisdiction of the United States from a place in a foreign country;

(b) Making a voyage between places outside of the United States;

(c) Departing from a place under the jurisdiction of the United States for a place in a foreign country; or

(d) Making a voyage between a place within a territory or possession of the United States and another place under the jurisdiction of the United States not within that territory or possession.

Vessel of war means “vessel of war” as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101.

[GCD 89–007; GCD 89–007a, 58 FR 60266, Nov. 15, 1993, 58 FR 65131, Dec. 13, 1993, as amended by CGD 95–014, 60 FR 31606, June 15, 1995; CGD 95–072, 60 FR 50463, Sept. 29, 1995; 60 FR 54106, Oct. 19, 1995; CGD 96–041, 61 FR 50728, Sept. 27, 1996]

§ 69.11 Determining the measurement system or systems for a particular vessel.
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(a) Convention Measurement System (subpart B). (1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, this system applies to a vessel documented or to be documented under part 67 of this chapter and to a vessel engaged on a foreign voyage.

(2) This system does not apply to the following vessels:

(i) A vessel of less than 79 feet in overall length.

(ii) A vessel operating only on the Great Lakes, unless the owner requests measurement under this system.

(iii) A vessel that is not engaged on a foreign voyage and that had its keel laid or was at a similar stage of construction before January 1, 1986, unless the owner requests measurement under the Convention Measurement System or unless, on or after January 1, 1986, the vessel undergoes a change that the Commandant finds substantially affects the vessel's gross tonnage.

(iv) A vessel of war.

(v) A non-self-propelled vessel not engaged on a foreign voyage, unless the owner requests measurement under this system.

(3) A vessel made subject to this system at the request of the owner may be remeasured only under this system.

(4) For the purpose of vessel documentation, a vessel measured under this system is not required to be measured under another system.

(5) A vessel the keel of which was laid or that was at a similar stage of construction before July 18, 1982, (except a vessel measured under this system at the request of the owner or because of a change that substantially affects the vessel's gross tonnage) may retain its tonnage in effect on July 18, 1994, for the application of relevant requirements under an international agreement (except the Convention) or other laws of the United States. However, if the vessel undergoes a change after July 18, 1994, that the Commandant finds substantially affects the vessel's gross tonnage, the vessel must be remeasured only under this system.

(6) A tonnage assignment under this system does not affect the applicability to the vessel of international agreements to which the United States Government is a party that are not in conflict with the Convention or with the application of International Maritime Organization (IMO) Resolutions A.494(XII) of November 19, 1981, A.540(XIII) of November 17, 1983, and A.541(XIII) of November 17, 1983. When applicable to the vessel, these Resolutions provide interim schemes for using the vessel's existing gross tonnage, instead of the gross tonnage under the Convention Measurement System, for applying the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS), the International Convention on Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers, 1978, (STCW), and the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships, 1973, (MARPOL), respectively.

(b) Standard Measurement System (subpart C). This system applies to a vessel not required to be measured under the Convention Measurement System if the vessel is to be documented or if the application of a law of the United States to the vessel depends on the vessel's tonnage. Upon request of the owner, this system also applies to a documented vessel measured under the Convention Measurement System when Standard Measurement System tonnages are to be used in applying the provisions of a law under 46 U.S.C. 14305.

(c) Dual Measurement System (subpart D). This system may be applied, at the owner's option, instead of the Standard Measurement System, to a vessel eligible or required to be measured under the Standard Measurement System.

(d) Simplified Measurement System (subpart E). This system may be applied, at the owner's option, instead of the Standard Measurement System to the following vessels:

(1) A vessel that is under 79 feet in overall length.

(2) A vessel of any length that is non-self-propelled and not engaged on a foreign voyage.

(3) A vessel of any length that is operated only for pleasure and operated only on the Great Lakes.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 92–058, 57 FR 59938, Dec. 17, 1992; CGD 95–028, 62 FR 51203, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 69.13 Deviating from the provisions of a measurement system.
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(a) In measuring a vessel under a measurement system in this part, all provisions of that system applicable to the vessel must be observed.

(b) The provisions of more than one measurement system may not be applied interchangeably or combined.

§ 69.15 Authorized measurement organizations.
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(a) Except as under paragraphs (c) and (d) of this section, all U.S. vessels to be measured or remeasured under the Convention, Standard, or Dual Measurement Systems must be measured by an authorized measurement organization meeting the requirements of §69.27. A current listing of authorized measurement organizations can be obtained from Commanding Officer, U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Center (MSC–3), 400 7th Street S.W., Washington, DC 20590–0001.

(b) All vessels to be measured or remeasured under the Simplified Measurement System must be measured by the Coast Guard. Applications for measurement under the Simplified Measurement System are obtainable from the National Vessel Documentation Center.

(c) All U.S. Coast Guard vessels and all U.S. Navy vessels of war to be measured or remeasured under any measurement system must be measured by the Coast Guard.

(d) At the option of the Commandant, the Coast Guard may measure any vessel to determine its tonnage.

(e) The appropriate certificate of measurement is issued by the measuring organization as evidence of the vessel's measurement under this part.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 92–058, 57 FR 59938, Dec. 17, 1992; CGD 92–053, 59 FR 50508, Oct. 4, 1994; CGD 95–014, 60 FR 31606, June 15, 1995; CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51045, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 69.17 Application for measurement services.
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(a) Applications for measurement are available from and, once completed, are submitted to the authorized measurement organization that will perform the services. The contents of the application are described in this part under the requirement for each system.

(b) Applications for measurement under more than one system may be combined.

(c) For vessels under construction, the application must be submitted before the vessel is advanced in construction. Usually, this means as soon as the decks are laid, holds cleared of encumbrances, engine and boilers installed, and accommodations partitioned.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51045, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 69.19 Remeasurement and adjustment of tonnage.
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(a) If a vessel that is already measured is to undergo a structural alteration or if the use of a space within that vessel is to be changed, a remeasurement may be required. Vessel owners shall report immediately to an authorized measurement organization any intent to structurally alter the vessel or to change the use of a space within the vessel. The organization advises the owner if remeasurement is necessary. Spaces not affected by the alteration or change need not be remeasured.

(b) When there is a perceived error in the application of a regulation or in the tonnage calculations, the vessel owner should contact the responsible measurement organization. If the error is verified, the tonnage is adjusted as necessary.

(c) If a remeasurement or adjustment of tonnage is required, the organization will issue a new tonnage certificate. If the vessel is documented, the vessel's owner must surrender the Certificate of Documentation as required under part 67, subpart 67.25, of this chapter.

(d) A vessel of less than 79 feet in overall length measured under the Standard or Dual Measurement Systems may be remeasured at the owner's request under the Simplified Measurement System.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51045, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 69.21 Right of appeal.
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Any person directly affected by a decision or action taken under this part, by or on behalf of the Coast Guard, may appeal therefrom in accordance with subpart 1.03 of this chapter.

[CGD 88–033, 54 FR 50380, Dec. 6, 1989]

§ 69.23 Fees.
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Measurement organizations are authorized to charge a fee for measurement services. Information on fees is available directly from the organizations.

[CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51045, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 69.25 Penalties.
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(a) General violation. The owner, charterer, managing operator, agent, master, and individual in charge of a vessel in violation of a regulation in this part are each liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $20,000. Each day of a continuing violation is a separate violation. The vessel also is liable in rem for the penalty.

(b) False Statements. A person knowingly making a false statement or representation in a matter in which a statement or representation is required by this part is liable to the United States Government for a civil penalty of not more than $20,000 for each false statement or representation. The vessel also is liable in rem for the penalty.

§ 69.27 Delegation of authority to measure vessels.
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(a) Under 46 U.S.C. 14103 and 49 CFR 1.46, the Coast Guard is authorized to delegate to a “qualified person” the authority to measure vessels and to issue appropriate certificates of measurement for U.S. vessels that are required or eligible to be measured as vessels of the United States.

(b) Authority to measure and certify U.S. vessels under the Convention, Standard, and Dual Measurement Systems may be delegated to an organization that—

(1) Is a full member of the International Association of Classification Societies (IACS);

(2) Is incorporated under the laws of the United States, a State of the United States, or the District of Columbia;

(3) In lieu of the requirements in paragraphs (b)(1) and (2) of this section, is a recognized classification society under the requirements of 46 CFR part 8.

(4) Is capable of providing all measurement services under the Convention, Standard, and Dual Measurement Systems for vessels domestically and internationally;

(5) Maintains a tonnage measurement staff that has practical experience in measuring U.S. vessels under the Convention, Standard, and Dual Measurement Systems; and

(6) Enters into a written agreement, as described in paragraph (d) of this section.

(c) Applications for delegation of authority under this section must be forwarded to the Commandant and include the following information on the organization:

(1) Its name and address.

(2) Its organizational rules and structure.

(3) The location of its offices that are available to provide measurement services under the Convention, Standard, and Dual Measurement Systems.

(4) The name, qualifications, experience, and job title of each full-time or part-time employee or independent contractor specifically designated by the organization to provide measurement services under the Convention, Standard, or Dual Measurement Systems.

(5) Its tonnage measurement training procedures.

(d) If, after reviewing the application, the Coast Guard determines that the organization is qualified to measure and certify U.S. vessels on behalf of the Coast Guard, the organization must enter into a written agreement with the Coast Guard which—

(1) Defines the procedures for administering and implementing the tonnage measurement and certification processes, including the roles and responsibilities of each party;

(2) Outlines the Coast Guard's oversight role;

(3) Prohibits the organization from using an employee or contractor of the organization to measure and certify the tonnage of a vessel if that employee or contractor is acting or has acted as a tonnage consultant for that same vessel; and

(4) Requires the organization to—

(i) Accept all requests to perform delegated services without discrimination and without regard to the vessel's location, unless prohibited from doing so under the laws of the United States or under the laws of the jurisdiction in which the vessel is located;

(ii) Physically inspect each vessel before issuing a tonnage certificate;

(iii) Provide the Coast Guard with current schedules of measurement fees and related charges;

(iv) Maintain a tonnage measurement file for each U.S. vessel that the organization measures and permit access to the file by any person authorized by the Commandant;

(v) Permit observer status representation by the Coast Guard at all formal discussions that may take place between the organization and other vessel tonnage measurement organizations pertaining to tonnage measurement of U.S. vessels or to the systems under which U.S. vessels are measured;

(vi) Comply with and apply all laws and regulations relating to tonnage measurement of U.S. vessels within the scope of authority delegated; and

(vii) Comply with all other provisions, if any, of the written agreement.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51045, Sept. 30, 1997; CGD 95–010, 62 FR 67536, Dec. 24, 1997]

§ 69.29 OMB control numbers assigned under the Paperwork Reduction Act.
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(a) Purpose. This section collects and displays the control numbers assigned to information collection and record keeping requirements in this part by the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) pursuant to the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1980 (44 U.S.C. 3501 et seq.). The Coast Guard intends that this part comply with 44 U.S.C. 3507(f), which requires that agencies display the current control number assigned by the Director of OMB for each approved agency information collection requirement.

(b) Display—



------------------------------------------------------------------------
Currently
assigned
Section of 46 CFR part 69 OMB control
No.
------------------------------------------------------------------------
69.17...................................................... 1625-0022
69.19...................................................... 1625-0022
69.21...................................................... 1625-0022
69.27...................................................... 1625-0022
69.55...................................................... 1625-0022
69.105..................................................... 1625-0022
69.121(d).................................................. 1625-0022
69.159..................................................... 1625-0022
69.179..................................................... 1625-0022
69.205..................................................... 1625-0022
------------------------------------------------------------------------


[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by USCG–2004–18884, 69 FR 58346, Sept. 30, 2004]

Subpart B—Convention Measurement System
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§ 69.51 Purpose.
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This subpart prescribes the requirements for measuring a vessel in order to comply with the International Convention on Tonnage Measurement of Ships, 1969 (Convention), and 46 U.S.C. chapter 143.

§ 69.53 Definitions.
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As used in this subpart—

Amidships means the midpoint of the registered length, as “registered length” is defined in this section.

Cargo space means an enclosed space appropriated for the transport of cargo which is to be discharged from the vessel. The term does not include a space which qualifies as an excluded space under §69.61.

Enclosed space is defined in §69.59.

Excluded space is defined in §69.61.

Gross tonnage or GT means the tonnage determined under §69.57.

Line of the upper deck means a longitudinal line at the underside of the upper deck or, if that deck is stepped, the longitudinal line of the underside of the lowest portion of that deck parallel with the upper portions of that deck.

Molded depth means the vertical distance amidships between the following points:

(a) From the line of the upper deck at the vessel's side or, if the vessel has rounded gunwales, from the intersection of the line of the upper deck extended to the molded line of the shell plating as though the gunwales were of angular design.

(b) To the top of the flat keel, to the lower edge of the keel rabbet if the vessel is of wood or composite structure, or to the point where the line of the flat of the bottom extended inward cuts the side of the keel if the vessel's lower part is hollow or has thick garboards.

Molded draft means—

(a) For vessels assigned a load line under parts 42, 44, 45, or 47 of this chapter, the draft corresponding to the Summer Load Line (other than a timber load line);

(b) For passenger vessels assigned a load line under part 46 of this chapter, the draft corresponding to the deepest subdivision load line assigned;

(c) For vessels to which parts 42, 44, 45, 46, or 47 of this chapter do not apply but which otherwise have been assigned a load line, the draft corresponding to the Summer Load Line so assigned;

(d) For vessels to which no load line has been assigned but the draft of which is restricted under any Coast Guard requirement, the maximum draft permitted under the restriction; and

(e) For other vessels, 75 per cent of the molded depth.

Net tonnage or NT means tonnage determined under §69.63.

Passenger means a person on board a vessel other than—

(a) The master, a member of the crew, or other person employed or engaged in any capacity in the business of the vessel; and

(b) A child under one year of age.

Registered breadth means the maximum breadth of a vessel measured amidships to the molded line of the frame in a vessel with a metal shell and to the outer surface of the hull in all other vessels.

Registered length means either 96 percent of the length on a waterline at 85 percent of the least molded depth measured from the top of the flat keel or the length from the fore side of the stem to the axis of the rudder stock on that waterline, whichever is greater. In vessels designed with a rake of keel, this length is measured on a waterline parallel to the design waterline.

Upper deck means the uppermost complete deck exposed to weather and sea, which has permanent means of weathertight closing of all openings in the weather part of the deck, and below which all openings in the sides of the vessel are fitted with permanent means of watertight closing.

Weathertight means secure against penetration of water into the vessel in any sea condition.

§ 69.55 Application for measurement services.
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Applications for measurement under this subpart must include the following information and plans:

(a) Type of vessel.

(b) Vessel's name and official number (if assigned).

(c) Builder's name and the vessel hull number assigned by builder.

(d) Place and year built.

(e) Date keel was laid.

(f) Overall length, breadth, and depth of vessel.

(g) Lines plan.

(h) Booklet of offsets at stations.

(i) Capacity plans for tanks and cargo compartments.

(j) Hydrostatic curves.

(k) Construction plans showing measurements and scantlings of deck structures, hatches, appendages, recesses, and other enclosed spaces.

(l) Arrangement plans.

[GCD 89–007; GCD 89–007a, 58 FR 60266, Nov. 15, 1993, 58 FR 65131, Dec. 13, 1993, as amended by CGD 95–014, 60 FR 31606, June 15, 1995]

§ 69.57 Gross tonnage.
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Gross tonnage (GT) is determined by the following formula GT=K1 V, in which V=total volume of all enclosed spaces in cubic meters and K1=0.2+0.02 log10 V.

§ 69.59 Enclosed spaces.
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Enclosed space means a space which is bounded by the vessel's hull, by fixed or portable partitions or bulkheads, or by decks or coverings other than permanent or movable awnings. No break in a deck, nor any opening in the vessel's hull, in a deck or in a covering of a space, or in the partitions or bulkheads of a space, nor the absence of a partition or bulkhead precludes the space from being included in the enclosed space.

§ 69.61 Excluded spaces.
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(a) Excluded space means an enclosed space which is excluded from volume (V) in calculating gross tonnage. Except as under paragraph (g) of this section, this section lists the excluded spaces.

(b) A space that is within a structure and that is opposite an end opening extending from deck to deck (except for a curtain plate of a height not exceeding by more than one inch the depth of the adjoining deck beams) and having a breadth equal to or greater than 90 percent of the breadth of the deck at the line of the opening is an excluded space, subject to the following:

(1) Only the space between the actual end opening and a line drawn parallel to the line or face of the opening at a distance from the opening equal to one-half of the breadth of the deck at the line of the opening is excluded. (See §69.75, figure 1.)

(2) If, because of any arrangement (except convergence of the outside plating as shown in §69.75, figure 3), the breadth of the space is less than 90 percent of the breadth of the deck, only the space between the line of the opening and a parallel line drawn through the point where the athwartship breadth of the space is equal to 90 percent or less of the breadth of the deck is excluded. (See §69.75, figures 2 and 4.)

(3) When any two spaces, either of which is excluded under paragraphs (b)(1) or (b)(2) of this section, are separated by an area that is completely open except for bulwarks or open rails, these two spaces must not be excluded if the separation between the two spaces is less than the least half breadth of the deck in way of the separation. (See §69.75, figures 5 and 6.)

(4) When the deck at the line of an opening has rounded gunwales, the breadth of the deck is the distance between the tangent points indicated in §69.75, figure 11.

(c) A space that is open to the weather and that is under an overhead deck covering with no connection on the space's exposed sides between the covering and the deck other than the stanchions necessary for the covering's support is an excluded space. An open rail or bulwark fitted at the vessel's side does not disqualify the space from being an excluded space if the height between the top of the rail or bulwark and the overhead structure or curtain plate (if fitted) is not less than 2.5 feet or one-third of the height of the space, whichever is greater. (See §69.75, figure 7.)

(d) A space in a side-to-side structure directly in way of opposite side openings not less than 2.5 feet in height or one-third of the height of the structure, whichever is greater, is an excluded space. If the opening is only on one side of the structure, the space to be excluded is limited inboard from the opening to a maximum of one-half of the breadth of the deck in way of the opening. (See §69.75, figure 8.)

(e) A space in a structure immediately below an uncovered opening in the deck overhead is an excluded space, if the opening is exposed to the weather and the space to be excluded is limited to the area of the opening. (See §69.75, figure 9.)

(f) A recess in the boundary bulkhead of a structure which is exposed to the weather and which has an opening that extends from deck to deck without a means of closing is an excluded space, if the interior width of the space is not greater than the width of the opening and extension of the space into the structure is not greater than twice the width of the opening. (See §69.75, figure 10.)

(g) Any space described in paragraphs (b) through (f) of this section which fulfills at least one of the following conditions is not an excluded space:

(1) The space is fitted with shelves or other means designed for securing cargo or stores.

(2) The opening that would otherwise permit the space to be excluded space is fitted with a means of closure.

(3) Other features of the space make it possible for the space to be closed.

§ 69.63 Net tonnage.
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Net tonnage (NT) is determined by the formula:



in which:

Vc = total volume of cargo spaces in cubic meters.

K2 = 0.2 + 0.02 log10 Vc.


D = molded depth amidships in meters, as “molded depth” is defined in §69.53.

d = molded draft amidships in meters, as “molded draft” is defined in §69.53.

N1 = number of passengers in cabins with not more than eight berths, as “passenger” is defined in §69.53.

N2 = number of other passengers, as “passenger” is defined in §69.53.

GT = gross tonnage as determined under §69.57.

N1 plus N2 must equal the total number of passengers the vessel is permitted to carry as indicated on the ship's Passenger Certificate. If N1 plus N2 is less than 13, both N1 and N2 are zero.


NT must not be less than 0.30 GT.


[CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51045, Sept. 30, 1997]

§ 69.65 Calculation of volumes.
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(a) Volumes V and Vc used in calculating gross and net tonnages, respectively, must be measured and calculated according to accepted naval architectural practices for the spaces concerned.

(b) The volume of the hull below the upper deck is determined as follows:

(1) If the number and location of sections originally used in making other calculations which relate to the form of the vessel (such as displacement volumes and center of buoyancy) are reasonably available, Simpson's first rule may be applied using those sections.

(2) If the number and location of stations originally used are not reasonably available or do not exist and the hull is of conventional design with faired lines, Simpson's first rule may be applied using a number and location of stations not less than those indicated in §69.109(g)(1).

(3) If the hull is of standard geometric shape, a simple geometric formula that yields a more accurate volume may be used.

(4) If the lines of the hull are not fair, the volume may be measured by using a combination of methods under this section.

(c) The volume of structures above the upper deck may be measured by applying the superstructure provisions in §69.113 or by any accepted method or combinations of methods.

(d) Measurements must be taken, regardless of the fitting of insulation or the like—

(1) To the inner side of the shell or structural boundary plating, in vessels constructed of metal; and

(2) To the outer surface of the shell or to the inner side of structural boundary surfaces, in all other vessels.

(e) When determining the volume of a cargo space, measurements must be taken without consideration for insulation, sparring, or ceiling fitted within the space.

(f) Measurements must be to the nearest one-twentieth of a foot.

(g) Calculations must be made on a worksheet and must be sufficiently detailed to permit easy review. The measurement procedures used must be identified on the worksheet.

§ 69.67 Marking of cargo spaces.
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Cargo spaces used in determining volume (Vc) for calculating net tonnage must be permanently marked with the letters “CC” (cargo compartment) which are at least four inches in height and positioned so as to be visible at all times.

§ 69.69 Issuance of an International Tonnage Certificate (1969).
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On request of the vessel owner, an International Tonnage Certificate (1969) is issued for a vessel measured under this subpart that is 79 feet or more in registered length and that will engage on a foreign voyage. The Certificate is issued to the vessel owner or master and must be maintained on board the vessel when it is engaged on a foreign voyage.

§ 69.71 Change of net tonnage.
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(a) When a vessel is altered so that the net tonnage is increased, the new net tonnage must be applied immediately.

(b) A vessel concurrently assigned load lines under both the International Convention on Load Lines and either the International Convention for the Safety of Life at Sea (SOLAS) or other international agreement must be assigned only one net tonnage. The net tonnage assigned must be the net tonnage applicable to the load line assigned under the International Convention on Load Lines, SOLAS or other international agreement for the trade in which the vessel in engaged.

(c) When a vessel is altered so that the net tonnage is decreased or the vessel's trade is changed so that the load line assigned for that trade under paragraph (b) of this section is no longer appropriate and results in a decrease in its net tonnage, a new International Tonnage Certificate (1969) incorporating that net tonnage may not be issued until twelve months after the date on which the current Certificate was issued. However, if one of the following apply, a new Certificate may be issued immediately:

(1) The vessel is transferred to the flag of another nation.

(2) The vessel undergoes alterations or modifications which the Coast Guard deems to be of a major character, such as the removal of a superstructure which requires an alteration of the assigned load line.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by USCG–1999–6216, 64 FR 53225, Oct. 1, 1999]

§ 69.73 Variance from the prescribed method of measurement.
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(a) When application of this subpart to a novel type vessel produces unreasonable or impractical results, the Commandant may determine a more suitable method of measurement.

(b) Requests for a determination must be submitted to the Commandant, explaining the problem, and including plans and sketches of the spaces in question.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 97–057, 62 FR 51045, Sept. 30, 1997; USCG–1999–6216, 64 FR 53225, Oct. 1, 1999]

§ 69.75 Figures.
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0=excluded space.

C=enclosed space.

I=space to be considered as an enclosed space.

B=breadth of deck in way of the opening.




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Subpart C—Standard Measurement System
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§ 69.101 Purpose.
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This subpart prescribes the procedures for measuring a vessel under the Standard Measurement System described in 46 U.S.C. 14512.

§ 69.103 Definitions.
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As used in this subpart—

Between-deck means the space above the line of the tonnage deck and below the line of the deck next above.

Break means the space between the line of a deck and the upper portion of that deck, in cases where that deck is stepped and continued at a higher elevation.

Camber means the perpendicular rise or crown of a deck at the centerline of the vessel measured above the skin of the vessel at the vessel's sides.

Ceiling means the permanent planking or plating fitted directly on the inboard side of frames, floors, or double bottom and includes cargo battens and refrigeration insulation but does not include false ceiling which stands off from the framing.

Coaming means both the vertical plating around a hatch or skylight and the sill below an opening in a bulkhead.

Deckhouse means a structure that is on or above the uppermost complete deck and that does not extend from side to side of the vessel. The term includes cabin trunks and closed-in spaces over the holds of vessels.

Depth of frame means the perpendicular depth of a bottom frame and the athwart distance between the inboard and outboard faces of a side frame.

Double bottom means a space at the bottom of a vessel between the inner and outer bottom plating and used solely for water ballast.

Floor means a vertical plate or timber extending from bilge to bilge in the bottom of a vessel. In a wooden vessel, “floor” means the lowermost timber connecting the main frames at the keel when that timber extends the full depth of the frames to which it is fastened. In a double bottom, floors usually extend from the outer to the inner bottom.

Gross tonnage is defined in §69.107(a).

Hatch means an opening in a deck through which cargo is laden or discharged.

Line of tonnage deck means the line determined under §69.109(e).

Line of uppermost complete deck means the line determined under §69.111(b).

Net tonnage is defined in §69.107(b).

Registered breadth is defined in §69.53.

Registered depth means “molded depth” as defined in §69.53.

Registered length is defined in §69.53.

Shelter deck means the uppermost deck that would have qualified as the uppermost complete deck had it not been fitted with a middle line opening.

Step means a cutoff in a deck or in the bottom, top, or sides of a space resulting in varying heights of a deck or varying heights or widths of a space.

Superstructure means all permanent structures (such as forecastle, bridge, poop, deckhouse, and break) on or above the line of the uppermost complete deck or, if the vessel has a shelter deck, on or above the line of the shelter deck.

Tonnage deck is defined in §69.109(c).

Tonnage length is defined in §69.109(f).

Uppermost complete deck means the uppermost deck—

(a) Which extends from stem to stern and from side to side at all points of its length;

(b) The space below which is enclosed by the sides of the vessel;

(c) Through which there is no opening that would exempt the space below from being included in gross tonnage; and

(d) Below which there is no opening through the hull that would exempt the space below from being included in gross tonnage.

§ 69.105 Application for measurement services.
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Applications for measurement services under this subpart must include the following information and plans:

(a) Type of vessel.

(b) Vessel's name and official number (if assigned).

(c) Builder's name and the vessel hull number assigned by the builder.

(d) Place and year built.

(e) Date keel was laid.

(f) Overall length, breadth, and depth of vessel.

(g) Lines plan.

(h) Booklet of offsets.

(i) Capacity plans for tanks

(j) Construction plans showing measurements and scantlings of hull and superstructure.

(k) Tonnage drawing showing tonnage length in profile and tonnage sections.

(l) Arrangement plans.

[CGD 87–015b, 54 FR 37657, Sept. 12, 1989, as amended by CGD 95–014, 60 FR 31606, June 15, 1995]

§ 69.107 Gross and net tonnages.
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(a) Gross tonnage is the sum of the following tonnages, less certain spaces exempt under §69.117:

(1) Under-deck tonnage (§69.109).

(2) Between-deck tonnage (§69.111).

(3) Superstructure tonnage (§69.113).

(4) Excess hatchway tonnage (§69.115(c)).

(5) Tonnage of framed-in propelling machinery spaces included in calculating gross tonnage (§69.121(d)(1)).

(b) Net tonnage is gross tonnage less deductions under §§69.119 and 69.121.

§ 69.109 Under-deck tonnage.
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(a) Defined. “Under-deck tonnage” means the tonnage of the space below the line of the tonnage deck, as that volume is calculated under this section.

(b) Method of calculating tonnage. Under-deck tonnage is calculated by applying Simpson's first rule using the tonnage length and the areas of the transverse sections prescribed by this section.

(c) Identifying the tonnage deck. In vessels with two or less decks, the tonnage deck is the uppermost complete deck. In vessels with more than two decks, the tonnage deck is the second deck from the keel as determined in paragraph (d) of this section.

(d) Enumerating the decks to identify the second deck from the keel. Only decks without openings that permit space below to be exempt from inclusion in under-deck tonnage are enumerated. Partial decks are not considered decks for the purpose of enumerating decks. However, the presence of engine and boiler casings, peak tanks, or cofferdams that penetrate a deck do not disqualify the deck from being enumerated.

(e) Identifying the line of the tonnage deck. (1) If the tonnage deck runs in a continuous line from stem to stern, the line of the tonnage deck is the longitudinal line at the underside of the tonnage deck.

(2) If the tonnage deck runs at different levels from stem to stern, the line of the tonnage deck is the longitudinal line of the underside of the lowest portion of that deck parallel with the upper portions of that deck. (See §69.123, figures 1 and 2.) Spaces between the line of the tonnage deck and the higher portions of that deck are not included in under-deck tonnage.

(f) Tonnage length. (1) “Tonnage length” means the length of a horizontal straight line measured at the centerline of the vessel from the point forward where the line of the tonnage deck intersects the line of the inboard faces of the ordinary side frames to the point aft where the line of the tonnage deck intersects the inboard face of the transom frames or cant frames. (See §69.123, figure 3.)

(2) For a vessel having a headblock or square end with framing which extends from the tonnage deck to the bottom of the vessel, the tonnage length terminates on the inboard face of the head block or end framing. When a headblock extends inboard past the face of the end side frames or when the headblock plates are excessive in length, the tonnage length terminates at the extreme end of the vessel less a distance equal to the thickness of an ordinary side frame and shell plating. (See §69.123, figure 4.)

(3) For a vessel having a square bow or stern and tonnage deck with camber, the effect of the camber on the tonnage length must be considered. The tonnage length must be measured below the tonnage deck at a distance equal to one-third of round camber and one-half of straight pitch camber.

(g) Division of vessel into transverse sections. (1) Except as under paragraph (m)(1)(iii) of this section, the tonnage length is divided into an even number of equal parts as indicated in the following table:



------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class Tonnage length Divisions
------------------------------------------------------------------------
1................................... 50 ft. or less......... 6
2................................... Over 50 ft. but not 8
exceeding 100 ft.
3................................... Over 100 ft. but not 10
exceeding 150 ft.
4................................... Over 150 ft. but not 12
exceeding 200 ft.
5................................... Over 200 ft. but not 14
exceeding 250 ft.
6................................... Over 250 ft............ 16
------------------------------------------------------------------------


(2) Transverse sections are cut at each end of the tonnage length and at each point of division of the tonnage length. Intervals and one-third intervals between the points of division are measured to the nearest thousandth of a foot. (See §69.123 figures 5 and 6.)

(h) Depths of transverse sections. (1) Transverse section depths are measured at each point of division of the tonnage length at the centerline of the vessel from a point below the line of the tonnage deck equal to one-third of the camber or to one-half of the pitch of the beam down to the upper side of the ordinary frames, floors, longitudinals, or tank top of a cellular double bottom, as the case may be.

(2) When a depth falls at a point where the tank top of a double bottom has a straight fall from centerline to the wings, the depth terminates at one-half of the height of fall. (See §69.123 figure 8.)

(3) When a depth falls at a point where the tank top of a double bottom rises from the centerline to the wings, the depth terminates at one-half the dead rise. (See §69.123, figure 9.)

(4) The depth at the midpoint of the tonnage length or, when a vessel is measured in parts, the depth at the midpoint of each part determines the number of equal parts into which each depth is divided, as follows:

(i) If the midpoint depth is 16 feet or less, each depth is divided into four equal parts. If the midpoint depth exceeds 16 feet, each depth is divided into six equal parts. (See §69.123, figure 7.)

(ii) The interval between the points of division of a depth and one-third intervals are carried to the nearest hundredth of a foot.

(i) Breadths of transverse sections. (1) Transverse section breadths are measured horizontally at each point of division of each depth and also at the upper and lower points of each depth. Breadths are measured to the inboard face of the ordinary frames or to the line of the ordinary frames. Breadths are measured parallel to each other and at right angle to the vessel's centerline. (See §69.123, figure 7.)

(2) Upper breadths are not reduced by measuring to deck-beam brackets. In cases of camber when an upper breadth passes through the deck (see §69.123, figure 7), the breadth is measured to the line of the side frames at the under side of the deck projected vertically up to the height of the upper breadth.

(3) Bottom breadths are measured only as far as the flat of the floor extends. (See §69.123, figures 7 and 10.) When bottom frames rise immediately from the flat keel, bottom breadths are equal to the breadth of the flat keel. Where there is no double bottom and where there is dead rise of the bottom out to the sides of the vessel, bottom breadths are equal to the part of the bottom plating not affected by dead rise.

(4) Bottom breadths falling in way of a double bottom, the top of which rises or falls from certerline to the wings, are measured between the inboard faces of the frame brackets which connect the double bottom with the frames. (See §69.123, figures 8 and 9.)

(j) Measuring spaces having ceiling. The maximum allowance for terminating measurements on ceiling is three inches on the bottom frames or tank top and three inches on each side frame. When ceiling is less than three inches thick, only the actual thickness is allowed. When ceiling is fitted on a platform directly above the bottom frames, depths are measured down through the platform to the upper side of the frames and the allowable ceiling on the platform is then deducted.

(k) Area of transverse sections. (1) A transverse section at an end of the tonnage length may not yield area, except in vessels (such as barges) with an upright bow or stern.

(2) The breadths of each transverse section are numbered from above, the upper being “1”, the second down being “2”, and so on to the lowest.

(3) Multiply the even numbered breadths by four and the odd numbered breadths by two, except for the first and last breadths, which are multiplied by one.

(4) Add together the products from paragraph (k)(3) of this section.

(5) Multiply the sum from paragraph (k)(4) of this section by one-third of the interval between the breadths. The product is the area of the transverse section.

(l) Tonnage. (1) Number the transverse sections successively “1”, “2”, and so forth, beginning at the bow.

(2) Multiply the area of the even numbered sections by four and the area of the odd numbered sections by two, except the first and last sections, which are multiplied by one.

(3) Add together the products from paragraph (l)(2) of this section and multiply the sum by one-third of the interval between the sections. The product is the volume under-deck.

(4) The volume under-deck is divided by 100 and is, subject to exemptions, the under-deck tonnage.

(m) Steps in double bottom. (1) The tonnage length of a vessel having a step exceeding six inches in height in its double bottom is divided into longitudinal parts at the step. Each part is subdivided as follows to determine the number of transverse sections: (continued)