46 CFR Subchapter M is applicable to all U.S.-flag towing vessels as defined in §136.110 engaged in pushing, pulling, or hauling alongside, except—
- A vessel less than 26 feet (7.92 meters) in length measured from end to end over the deck (excluding the sheer), unless that vessel is pushing, pulling, or hauling a barge that is carrying oil or hazardous material in bulk
- A vessel engaged in one or more of the following
- Assistance towing as defined in §136.110;
- Towing recreational vessels for salvage; or
- Transporting or assisting the navigation of recreational vessels within and between marinas and marina facilities, within a limited geographic area, as determined by the local Captain of the Port (COTP);
- A workboat operating exclusively within a worksite and performing intermittent towing within the worksite
- A seagoing towing vessel of 300 gross tons or more subject to the provisions of subchapter I of this chapter
- A vessel inspected under other subchapters of this chapter that may perform occasional towing
- A public vessel as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101
- A vessel that has surrendered its COI and is laid up, dismantled, or otherwise out of service
- A propulsion unit used for the purpose of propelling or controlling the direction of a barge where the unit is controlled from the barge, is not normally manned, and is not utilized as an independent vessel