COMDTINST 16601.13 — Permitting Of Regattas And Marine Parades

COMDTINST 16601.13 governs Coast Guard policy for permitting regattas, marine parades, and other maritime events.

Search COMDTINST 16601.13

  • Publication number: COMDTINST 16601.13
  • Title: PERMITTING OF REGATTAS AND MARINE PARADES
  • Date: 7/24/2026
  • Proponent: CG-5PW

View COMDTINST 16601.13 on armypubs.army.mil


The publication addresses Coast Guard authorities, permit criteria, state and local coordination, and events that do not require permits. It requires a six-stage review process for marine event applications and sets rules for permit decisions, safety measures, environmental review, and monitoring.

Applies to: All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, chief of headquarters staff elements should comply with the policies contained.

Topics covered

  • Marine event permits
  • Regattas and marine parades
  • Coast Guard authorities
  • Six-stage permitting process
  • Permit application review
  • Special local regulations
  • Marine event safety reviews
  • Environmental review

Questions and answers

Who must comply with COMDTINST 16601.13?

All Coast Guard unit commanders, commanding officers, officers-in-charge, deputy/assistant commandants, chief of headquarters staff elements should comply with the policies contained. (paragraph 2)

Who can approve or disapprove a Marine Event Permit?

The authority to approve or disapprove a Marine Event Permit shall not be delegated lower than the Captain of the Port, in accordance with 33 C.F.R. 100.

What qualification must most Designated Officers have?

Designated Officers, except those billeted as Commanding Officers and Executive Officers, must have a Waterways Management qualification (MAREAA).

What process must Designated Officers use when reviewing a marine event application?

Designated Officers shall use the six-stage process outlined in this Instruction when reviewing an Application for Marine Event, Form CG-4423, which may be referred to as a marine event application. (paragraph 3)

When does an event not require a marine event permit?

If a proposed event does not meet the definition of a permitted marine event, outlined in paragraph 1.B.8, units shall send the event sponsors a letter stating the event does not introduce extra or unusual hazard on the navigable waters of the United States and does not require a marine event permit. (paragraph 2)

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