82_FR_53634 82 FR 53414 - Special Local Regulation; Mavericks Surf Competition, Half Moon Bay, CA

82 FR 53414 - Special Local Regulation; Mavericks Surf Competition, Half Moon Bay, CA

DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
Coast Guard

Federal Register Volume 82, Issue 220 (November 16, 2017)

Page Range53414-53418
FR Document2017-24840

The Coast Guard is revising a special local regulation in the navigable waters of Half Moon Bay, CA, near Pillar Point in support of the Mavericks Surf Competition, an annual invitational surf competition held at the Mavericks Break. This revision is necessary to improve the regulation by making it clearer and to have it better reflect the natural conditions that must be met for this surf competition to take place. This regulation is necessary to provide for the safety of life on the navigable waters immediately prior to, during, and immediately after the surfing competition, which is held only one day between November 1 of each year and March 31 of the following year. This revision temporarily restricts vessel traffic in the vicinity of Pillar Point and prohibits vessels and persons not participating in or directly supporting the surfing event from entering the dedicated surfing area and a designated no-entry area.

Federal Register, Volume 82 Issue 220 (Thursday, November 16, 2017)
[Federal Register Volume 82, Number 220 (Thursday, November 16, 2017)]
[Rules and Regulations]
[Pages 53414-53418]
From the Federal Register Online  [www.thefederalregister.org]
[FR Doc No: 2017-24840]


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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY

Coast Guard

33 CFR Part 100

[Docket Number USCG-2015-0427]
RIN 1625-AA08


Special Local Regulation; Mavericks Surf Competition, Half Moon 
Bay, CA

AGENCY: Coast Guard, DHS.

ACTION: Final rule.

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SUMMARY: The Coast Guard is revising a special local regulation in the 
navigable waters of Half Moon Bay, CA, near Pillar Point in support of 
the Mavericks Surf Competition, an annual invitational surf competition 
held at the Mavericks Break. This revision is necessary to improve the 
regulation by making it clearer and to have it better reflect the 
natural conditions that must be met for this surf competition to take 
place. This regulation is necessary to provide for the safety of life 
on the navigable waters immediately prior to, during, and immediately 
after the surfing competition, which is held only one day between 
November 1 of each year and March 31 of the following year. This 
revision temporarily restricts vessel traffic in the vicinity of Pillar 
Point and prohibits vessels and persons not participating in or 
directly supporting the surfing event from entering the dedicated 
surfing area and a designated no-entry area.

DATES: This rule is effective December 18, 2017.

ADDRESSES: To view documents mentioned in this preamble as being 
available in the docket, go to http://www.regulations.gov, type the 
docket number USCG-2015-0427 in the ``SEARCH'' box and click 
``SEARCH.'' Click on Open Docket Folder on the line associated with 
this rule.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If you have questions about this 
rulemaking, call or email Lieutenant Junior Grade Christina Ramirez, 
U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Francisco; telephone (415) 399-2001, email 
at [email protected].

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: 

I. Table of Abbreviations

CFR Code of Federal Regulations
DHS Department of Homeland Security
FR Federal Register
NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking
Sec.  Section
COTP Captain of the Port
PATCOM Patrol Commander
OCMI Officer in Charge of Marine Inspections
NRPM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
U.S.C. United States Code

[[Page 53415]]

II. Background Information and Regulatory History

    The Mavericks Surf Competition has grown in popularity within the 
past several years. Due to the inherent dangers of the competition and 
the disruption to the normal uses of the waterways in the vicinity of 
Pillar Point, the Coast Guard issues a Marine Event Permit to the event 
sponsor. Following the collapse of the Cliffside viewing area in 2011, 
the Coast Guard became concerned that the loss of shore-side viewing 
area would result in a larger than expected number of spectator vessels 
in the vicinity of the event.
    This final rule formalizes the scheme employed during the 2013 and 
2014 competitions, which proved to be an effective means of separating 
competitors from spectators. The two zones and associated regulations 
contained in this final rule are intended to ensure the safety of 
competitors from spectator vessels, and enhances the safety of 
spectator vessels by creating a designated area in which the Coast 
Guard may direct the movement of such vessels. Because of the dangers 
posed by the surf conditions during the Mavericks Surf Competition, the 
special local regulation is necessary to provide for the safety of 
event participants, spectators, and other vessels transiting the event 
area. For the safety concerns noted, it is in the public interest to 
have these regulations in effect during the event.
    On October 15, 2014, the Coast Guard published an interim rule and 
request for comments in the Federal Register (79 FR 61762) establishing 
the special local regulation 33 CFR 100.1106. We received no comments 
during the comment period on the interim rule. Although the event was 
not held during the 2014-2015 season, the planning process proved to be 
vital in identifying updates to the rule as proposed here. This final 
rule finalizes the Interim Rule updates proposed in the Notice of 
Proposed Rule Making.
    On November 3, 2015 and November 23, 2016, we promulgated temporary 
final rules for the Mavericks Surf Competition, which was most recently 
held on February 12, 2016, and subsequently not held in the 2016-2017 
season after the sponsoring organization filed for bankruptcy. The 
temporary rules were needed to incorporate the updates noted in this 
Final Rule which include: Requiring buoy position maintenance by the 
event sponsors, expanding the definition of ``spectator vessel'' to 
include human powered craft and expanding the definition of ``support 
vessel'' to include jet skis. The Coast Guard determined a NPRM was 
necessary to afford the public the opportunity to comment on the 
aforementioned updates to the Interim Rule and because the Mavericks 
Surf Competition would occur before NPRM process was complete. 
Therefore to meet the event season deadline, a temporary final rule was 
published in lieu of a final rule. Past competitions have demonstrated 
the importance of restricting access to the competition area to only 
vessels in direct support of the competitors. In the Coast Guard's 
assessment, that temporary final rule provided an effective scheme to 
incorporate the Interim Rule updates and ensure the safety of life 
during the Mavericks Surf Competition.
    On January 10, 2017, we published an NPRM titled Special Local 
Regulation; Mavericks Surf Competition, Half Moon Bay, CA (82 FR 2930). 
During the comment period which ended on February 9, 2017, three 
comments were received.
    We are implementing the following changes to the Interim Rule based 
on comments received as well as lessons learned during the multi-agency 
planning process. The name of this event has changed over the years 
based on the sponsoring organization. The Coast Guard is promulgating 
this rule using the event name ``Mavericks Surf Competition'' to remove 
any affiliation with past or future sponsors and to keep the name of 
the event generic and applicable to any future sponsoring 
organizations. In addition to initially placing the buoys to outline 
Zones 1 and 2, this rule expands the event sponsor's designation of 
responsibility, outlined in the Interim Rule, to include buoy position 
maintenance throughout the course of the event. The definition of 
``support vessels'' has been updated to specifically include jet skis 
and to clarify that they must be pre-designated and approved to serve 
as such for this event by the Officer in Charge of Marine Inspections 
(OCMI) prior to the competition. Finally, the definition of ``spectator 
vessel'' was expanded to specifically include human-powered craft.

III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule

    Under 33 CFR 100.35, the Coast Guard District Commander has 
authority to promulgate certain special local regulations deemed 
necessary to ensure the safety of life on the navigable waters 
immediately before, during, and immediately after an approved regatta 
or marine parade. The Commander of Coast Guard District 11 has 
delegated to the Captain of the Port (COTP) San Francisco the 
responsibility of issuing such regulations.
    The Mavericks Surf Competition is a one-day ``Big Wave'' surfing 
competition between big wave surfers specifically invited to 
participate by the event sponsor. The competition only occurs when 15-
20 foot waves are sustained for over 24 hours and are combined with 
mild easterly winds of no more than 5-10 knots. The rock and reef 
ridges that make up the sea floor of the Pillar Point area, combined 
with optimal weather conditions, create the large waves for which 
Mavericks is known. Due to the hazardous waters surrounding Pillar 
Point at the time of the surfing competition, the Coast Guard is 
modifying and finalizing the interim rule which establishes a special 
local regulation in the vicinity of Pillar Point that restricts 
navigation in the area of the surf competition and in neighboring 
hazardous areas. This final rule is intended to ensure the safety of 
competitors by delineating a specific competition area, and to provide 
for the safety of spectators by imposing operating restrictions on 
those vessels.

IV. Discussion of Comments, Changes, and the Rule

    As noted above, the Coast Guard received three respondent comments, 
noting several concerns, to the NPRM published on January 10, 2017. One 
comment recommends a more stringent specificity of swell conditions on 
the day of the event to promote the safe operation of vessels in the 
area. The environmental parameters outlined in this regulation are 
determining factors which are necessary precursors to optimal 
conditions for holding the big wave surfing event; conditions which 
typically are not optimal for vessel operations. In order to mitigate 
the risk to safe operation of vessels on the day of the surfing event, 
the Coast Guard promulgated the Interim Rule which defines an operating 
area for spectator vessels. The operating area provides an area for 
spectator vessels that is minimally influenced by the breaking surf. 
The Coast Guard determined that, the introduction of specific swell 
periodicity as a Coast Guard required condition to hold the competition 
would unnecessarily limit favorable days in which the surfing event 
could take place without further mitigating the risk to vessel 
operations on the day of the event.
    One comment notes the economic determination in the NPRM to be 
erroneous, as the rule would have a significant economic impact on a 
substantial number of small entities. The Coast Guard disagrees with 
this

[[Page 53416]]

comment. The amendments within this rule do not unduly restrict 
spectator vessel traffic within Zone 2, the spectator viewing area. In 
contrast, the Coast Guard aims to facilitate the safe viewing of this 
surf competition by establishing and assigning maintenance 
responsibility of a clearly delineated region for spectators to safely 
maneuver while viewing the competition.
    One comment recommends defining specific parameters that must be 
met by support vessels. The Coast Guard finds that mandating specific 
vessel parameters for ``supporting vessels'' unduly limits the event 
sponsor from considering all available assets capable of providing 
support to the event. Under the current proposal, all vessels proposed 
by the sponsor as ``support vessels'' must be vetted and approved for 
operation, in their capacity, as a ``support vessel'' prior to the day 
of the event. The vetting and approval of ``support vessels'' is 
conducted as a necessary precursor to the issuance of the annual Marine 
Event Permit. In this process, it is incumbent upon the event sponsor 
to propose only vessels necessary and capable of safely providing 
direct support to event competitors. Each proposed vessel is thoroughly 
evaluated by the OCMI and assessed in regards to the Coast Guard's 
ability to safely render assistance if needed on the day of the event. 
Proposed ``support vessels'' whose maneuverability, crew manning, or 
scope of support is found to be insufficient to safely operate within 
Zone 1, will be limited in the range of their operation in support of 
the event or denied approval to serve as a supporting vessel entirely, 
as stipulated in the documentation associated with the annual Marine 
Event Permit issued to the event sponsor.
    One comment argued that the definition of ``spectator vessel'' was 
too vague. The Coast Guard finds that the definition of a ``spectator 
vessel'' as ``any vessel or person, including human-powered craft, 
which is not designated by the sponsor as a support vessel'' serves to 
differentiate between conspicuously marked ``support vessels'' which 
have previously been vetted and approved by the OCMI as part of the 
Marine Event Permit approval to provide direct support to the 
competitors, and all other vessels in the area on the day of the event.
    No changes were made to the rule based upon the received comments; 
however the Coast Guard recognizes the importance of imposing 
appropriate controls on vessels attempting to gain access to the area 
encompassed by Zone 1 on the day of the competition.
    The Coast Guard is finalizing the regulations governing the 
Mavericks Surf Competition. The Mavericks Surf Competition will take 
place on a day that presents favorable surf conditions between November 
1 of each year and March 31 of the following year, from 6 a.m. until 6 
p.m. The Mavericks Surf Competition can only occur when 15-20 foot 
waves are sustained for over 24 hours and are combined with mild 
easterly winds of no more than 5-10 knots. Unpredictable weather 
patterns and the event's narrow operating window limit the Coast 
Guard's ability to notify the public of the event. The Coast Guard 
would issue notice of the event as soon as practicable, but no later 
than 24 hours before Competition day via the Broadcast Notice to 
Mariners and issue a written Boating Public Safety Notice at least 24 
hours in advance of Competition day. Also, the zones that are 
established by this final rule will be prominently marked by at least 8 
buoys throughout the course of the event.
    The Mavericks Surf Competition will occur in the navigable waters 
of Half Moon Bay, CA, in the vicinity of Pillar Point as depicted in 
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) Chart 18682. The 
Coast Guard will enforce a regulated area defined by an arc extending 
1,000 yards from Sail Rock (37[deg]29'34'' N., 122[deg]30'02'' W.) 
excluding the waters within Pillar Point Harbor. All restrictions apply 
only between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the day of the actual competition.
    The effect of this regulation is to restrict navigation in the 
vicinity of Pillar Point during the Mavericks Surf Competition. During 
the enforcement period, the Coast Guard will direct the movement and 
access of all vessels within the regulated area. The regulated area 
will be divided into two zones. Zone 1 is designated as the competition 
area, and the movement of vessels within Zone 2 is controlled by the 
Patrol Commander (PATCOM).
    This regulation is needed to keep spectators and vessels a safe 
distance away from the event participants and the hazardous waters 
surrounding Pillar Point. Past competitions have demonstrated the 
importance of restricting access to the competition area to only 
vessels in direct support of the competitors. Failure to comply with 
the lawful directions of the Coast Guard could result in additional 
vessel movement restrictions, citation, or both.

V. Regulatory Analyses

    We developed this rule after considering numerous statutes and 
Executive orders related to rulemaking. Below we summarize our analyses 
based on a number of these statutes and Executive orders, and we 
discuss First Amendment rights of protestors.

A. Regulatory Planning and Review

    Executive Orders 12866 (``Regulatory Planning and Review'') and 
13563 (``Improving Regulation and Regulatory Review'') direct agencies 
to assess the costs and benefits of available regulatory alternatives 
and, if regulation is necessary, to select regulatory approaches that 
maximize net benefits (including potential economic, environmental, 
public health and safety effects, disruptive impacts, and equity). 
Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the importance of quantifying both 
costs and benefits, of reducing costs, of harmonizing rules, and of 
promoting flexibility. Executive Order 13771 (``Reducing Regulation and 
Controlling Regulatory Costs''), directs agencies to reduce regulation 
and control regulatory costs and provides that ``for every one new 
regulation issued, at least two prior regulations be identified for 
elimination, and that the cost of planned regulations be prudently 
managed and controlled through a budgeting process.''
    The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has not designated this 
rule a significant regulatory action under section 3(f) of Executive 
Order 12866. Accordingly, OMB has not reviewed it. As this rule is not 
a significant regulatory action, this rule is exempt from the 
requirements of Executive Order 13771. See OMB's memorandum ``Guidance 
Implementing Executive Order 13771, titled `Reducing Regulation and 
Controlling Regulatory Costs' '' (April 5, 2017).

B. Impact on Small Entities

    The Regulatory Flexibility Act of 1980, 5 U.S.C. 601-612, as 
amended, requires Federal agencies to consider the potential impact of 
regulations on small entities during rulemaking. The term ``small 
entities'' comprises small businesses, not-for-profit organizations 
that are independently owned and operated and are not dominant in their 
fields, and governmental jurisdictions with populations of less than 
50,000. The Coast Guard did not receive any comments from the Small 
Business Administration on the Interim rule published on October 15, 
2014. The Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C. 605(b) that this rule 
would not have a significant economic impact on a substantial number of 
small entities.
    Under section 213(a) of the Small Business Regulatory Enforcement 
Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104-121), we want to assist small 
entities in

[[Page 53417]]

understanding this rule. If the rule would affect your small business, 
organization, or governmental jurisdiction and you have questions 
concerning its provisions or options for compliance, please contact the 
person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section.
    Small businesses may send comments on the actions of Federal 
employees who enforce, or otherwise determine compliance with, Federal 
regulations to the Small Business and Agriculture Regulatory 
Enforcement Ombudsman and the Regional Small Business Regulatory 
Fairness Boards. The Ombudsman evaluates these actions annually and 
rates each agency's responsiveness to small business. If you wish to 
comment on actions by employees of the Coast Guard, call 1-888-REG-FAIR 
(1-888-734-3247). The Coast Guard will not retaliate against small 
entities that question or complain about this rule or any policy or 
action of the Coast Guard.

C. Collection of Information

    This rule will not call for a new collection of information under 
the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44 U.S.C. 3501-3520).

D. Federalism and Indian Tribal Governments

    A rule has implications for federalism under Executive Order 13132, 
Federalism, if it has a substantial direct effect on the States, on the 
relationship between the national government and the States, or on the 
distribution of power and responsibilities among the various levels of 
government. We have analyzed this rule under that Order and have 
determined that it is consistent with the fundamental federalism 
principles and preemption requirements described in Executive Order 
13132.
    Also, this rule does not have tribal implications under Executive 
Order 13175, Consultation and Coordination with Indian Tribal 
Governments, because it does not have a substantial direct effect on 
one or more Indian tribes, on the relationship between the Federal 
Government and Indian tribes, or on the distribution of power and 
responsibilities between the Federal Government and Indian tribes. If 
you believe this rule has implications for federalism or Indian tribes, 
please contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT 
section.

E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act

    The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531-1538) 
requires Federal agencies to assess the effects of their discretionary 
regulatory actions. In particular, the Act addresses actions that may 
result in the expenditure by a State, local, or tribal government, in 
the aggregate, or by the private sector of $100,000,000 (adjusted for 
inflation) or more in any one year. Though this rule would not result 
in such an expenditure, we do discuss the effects of this rule 
elsewhere in this preamble.

F. Environment

    We have analyzed this rule under Department of Homeland Security 
Management Directive 023-01 and Commandant Instruction M16475.lD, which 
guide the Coast Guard in complying with the National Environmental 
Policy Act of 1969 (42 U.S.C. 4321-4370f), and have made a preliminary 
determination that this action is one of a category of actions that do 
not individually or cumulatively have a significant effect on the human 
environment. This rule involves a regulated area of limited size and 
duration. Normally such actions are categorically excluded from further 
review under paragraph 34(h) of Figure 2-1 of Commandant Instruction 
M16475.lD. A Record of Environmental Consideration is available in the 
docket for this rulemaking. We seek any comments or information that 
may lead to the discovery of a significant environmental impact from 
this rule.

G. Protest Activities

    The Coast Guard respects the First Amendment rights of protesters. 
Protesters are asked to contact the person listed in the FOR FURTHER 
INFORMATION CONTACT section to coordinate protest activities so that 
your message can be received without jeopardizing the safety or 
security of people, places, or vessels.

List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 100

    Marine safety, Navigation (water), Reporting and recordkeeping 
requirements, and Waterways.

    For the reasons discussed in the preamble, the Coast Guard amends 
33 CFR part 100 as follows:

PART 100--REGATTAS AND MARINE PARADES

0
1. The authority citation for part 100 is revised to read as follows:

    Authority:  33 U.S.C. 1233; 33 CFR 1.05-1.


0
2. Revise Sec.  100.1106 to read as follows:


Sec.  100.1106   Special Local Regulation; Mavericks Surf Competition.

    (a) Location. This special local regulation establishes a regulated 
area on the waters of Half Moon Bay, located in the vicinity of Pillar 
Point, excluding the waters within Pillar Point Harbor. This regulated 
area is defined in paragraph (c) of this section.
    (b) Enforcement period. This section will be enforced between 6 
a.m. and 6 p.m. on Competition day, which if defined wave and wind 
conditions are met, will occur for one day between November 1 of each 
year and March 31 of the following year. Notice of the specific 
enforcement date of this section will be announced via Broadcast Notice 
to Mariners and issued in writing by the Coast Guard in a Boating 
Public Safety Notice at least 24 hours in advance of Competition day.
    (c) Definitions. As used in this section--
    Competition day means the one day between November 1 of each year 
and March 31 of the following year that Mavericks Surf Competition will 
be held. The Mavericks Surf Competition will only be held if 15 to 20 
foot waves are sustained for over 24 hours and are combined with mild 
easterly winds of no more than 5 to10 knots.
    Competitor means a surfer enrolled in the Maverick's Surf 
Competition.
    Patrol Commander or PATCOM means a Coast Guard Patrol Commander, 
including a Coast Guard coxswain, petty officer, or other officer, or a 
Federal, State, or local officer designated by the Captain of the Port 
San Francisco (COTP), to assist in the enforcement of the special local 
regulation.
    Regulated area means the area in which the Maverick's Surf 
Competition will take place. This area is bounded by an arc extending 
1000 yards from Sail Rock (37[deg]29'34'' N., 122[deg]30'02'' W.) 
excluding the waters within Pillar Point Harbor. All coordinates are 
North American Datum 1983. Within the regulated area, at least two 
zones will be established and marked by buoys on the day of the 
competition. Due to the dynamic and changing nature of the surf, the 
exact size and location of the zones will not be made public until the 
competition day. The zones will be prominently marked by at least 8 
buoys, placed and maintained in place throughout the course of the 
event by the event sponsor in a pattern approved by the PATCOM. In 
addition, the USCG will notify the public of the zone locations via 
Broadcast Notice to Mariners on the day of the event.
    Spectator vessel means any vessel or person, including human-
powered craft, which is not designated by the sponsor as a support 
vessel.
    Support vessel means a vessel, including jet skis, which is 
designated

[[Page 53418]]

and conspicuously marked by the sponsor to provide direct support to 
the competitors. Support vessels must be pre-designated and approved to 
serve as such for this event by the OCMI prior to the competition.
    Zone 1 means the competition area within the regulated area. Zone 1 
will generally be located to the northwest of a line drawn between Sail 
Rock (37[deg]29'34'' N., 122[deg]30'02'' W.) and Pillar Point Entrance 
Lighted Gong Buoy 1 (37[deg]29'10.410'' N., 122[deg]30'21.904'' W.).
    Zone 2 means the area within the regulated area where the Coast 
Guard may direct the movement of all vessels, including restricting 
vessels from this area. Zone 2 will generally be located to the 
southeast of a line drawn between Sail Rock (37[deg]29'34'' N., 
122[deg]30'02'' W.) and Pillar Point Entrance Lighted Gong Buoy 1 
(37[deg]29'10.410'' N., 122[deg]30'21.904'' W.).
    (d) Special Local Regulations. The following regulations apply 
between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the competition day.
    (1) Only support vessels may be authorized by the Patrol Commander 
(PATCOM) to enter Zone 1 during the competition.
    (2) Entering the water in Zone 1 by any person other than the 
competitors is prohibited. Competitors may enter the water in Zone 1 
from authorized support vessels only.
    (3) Spectator vessels and support vessels within Zone 2 must 
maneuver as directed by PATCOM. Given the changing nature of the surf 
in the vicinity of the competition, PATCOM may close Zone 2 to all 
vessels due to hazardous conditions. Due to weather and sea conditions, 
the Captain of the Port may deny access to Zone 2 and the remainder of 
the regulated area to all vessels other than competitors and support 
vessels on the day of the event
    (4) Entering the water in Zone 2 by any person is prohibited.
    (5) Rafting and anchoring of vessels are prohibited within the 
regulated area.
    (6) Only vessels authorized by the PATCOM will be permitted to tow 
other watercraft within the regulated area.
    (7) Spectator and support vessels in Zones 1 and 2 must operate at 
speeds which will create minimum wake, in general, 7 miles per hour or 
less.
    (8) When hailed or signaled by the PATCOM by a succession of sharp, 
short signals by whistle or horn, the hailed vessel must come to an 
immediate stop and comply with the lawful directions issued. Failure to 
comply with a lawful direction may result in additional operating 
restrictions, citation for failure to comply, or both.
    (9) During the events, vessel operators may contact the PATCOM on 
VHF-FM channel 23A.

    Dated: October 16, 2017.
Patrick S. Nelson,
Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Alternate Captain of the Port San Francisco.
[FR Doc. 2017-24840 Filed 11-15-17; 8:45 am]
 BILLING CODE 9110-04-P



                                              53414             Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 220 / Thursday, November 16, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                              of energy, a Statement of Energy Effects                            making the determination as to whether                         of $100 million or more in any given
                                              is not required.                                                    this rule would have a significant                             year. This determination is based upon
                                                                                                                  economic impact, the Department relied                         the fact that the Kentucky submittal,
                                              National Environmental Policy Act
                                                                                                                  upon data and assumptions for the                              which is the subject of this rule, is based
                                                This rule does not require an                                     counterpart Federal regulations.                               upon counterpart Federal regulations for
                                              environmental impact statement                                                                                                     which an analysis was prepared and a
                                              because Section 702(d) of SMCRA (30                                 Small Business Regulatory Enforcement
                                                                                                                  Fairness Act                                                   determination made that the Federal
                                              U.S.C. 1292(d)) provides that agency                                                                                               regulation did not impose an unfunded
                                              decisions on proposed State regulatory                                 This rule is not a major rule under 5                       mandate.
                                              program provisions do not constitute                                U.S.C. 804(2), the Small Business
                                              major Federal actions within the                                    Regulatory Enforcement Fairness Act.                           List of Subjects in 30 CFR Part 917
                                              meaning of Section 102(2)(C) of the                                 This rule: (a) Does not have an annual                          Intergovernmental relations, Surface
                                              National Environmental Policy Act (42                               effect on the economy of $100 million;                         mining, Underground mining.
                                              U.S.C. 4332(2)(C)).                                                 (b) will not cause a major increase in
                                                                                                                  costs or prices for consumers,                                   Dated: September 19, 2017.
                                              Paperwork Reduction Act                                             individual industries, Federal, State, or                      Thomas D. Shope
                                                This rule does not contain                                        local government agencies, or                                  Regional Director, Appalachian Region.
                                              information collection requirements that                            geographic regions; and (c) does not                             For the reasons set out in the
                                              require approval by OMB under the                                   have significant adverse effects on                            preamble, 30 CFR part 917 is amended
                                              Paperwork Reduction Act (44 U.S.C.                                  competition, employment, investment,                           as set forth below:
                                              3507 et seq.).                                                      productivity, innovation, or the ability
                                                                                                                  of U.S.-based enterprises to compete                           PART 917—KENTUCKY
                                              Regulatory Flexibility Act
                                                                                                                  with foreign-based enterprises. This
                                                The Department of the Interior                                    determination is based upon the fact                           ■ 1. The authority citation for part 917
                                              certifies that this rule will not have a                            that the Kentucky submittal, which is                          continues to read as follows:
                                              significant economic impact on a                                    the subject of this rule, is based upon                            Authority: 30 U.S.C. 1201 et seq.
                                              substantial number of small entities                                counterpart Federal regulations for
                                              under the Regulatory Flexibility Act (5                             which an analysis was prepared and a                           ■  2. Section 917.15 is amended by
                                              U.S.C. 601 et seq.). The State submittal,                           determination made that the Federal                            adding a new entry to the table in
                                              which is the subject of this rule, is based                         regulation was not considered a major                          paragraph (a) in chronological order by
                                              upon counterpart Federal regulations for                            rule.                                                          ‘‘Date of final publication’’ to read as
                                              which an economic analysis was                                                                                                     follows:
                                              prepared and certification made that                                Unfunded Mandates
                                              such regulations would not have a                                      This rule will not impose an                                917.15 Approval of Kentucky regulatory
                                              significant economic effect upon a                                  unfunded mandate on State, local, or                           program amendments.
                                              substantial number of small entities. In                            tribal governments or the private sector                           (a) * * *

                                                    Original amendment submission date                                          Date of final publication                                        Citation/description


                                                       *                            *                              *                   *                                 *                    *                          *
                                              May 10, 2011 ....................................................   November 16, 2017 ..........................................   KRS 350.060(11).



                                              *       *        *        *        *                                competition held at the Mavericks                              www.regulations.gov, type the docket
                                              [FR Doc. 2017–24707 Filed 11–15–17; 8:45 am]                        Break. This revision is necessary to                           number USCG–2015–0427 in the
                                              BILLING CODE 4310–05–P                                              improve the regulation by making it                            ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and click ‘‘SEARCH.’’
                                                                                                                  clearer and to have it better reflect the                      Click on Open Docket Folder on the line
                                                                                                                  natural conditions that must be met for                        associated with this rule.
                                              DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND                                              this surf competition to take place. This                      FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If
                                              SECURITY                                                            regulation is necessary to provide for                         you have questions about this
                                                                                                                  the safety of life on the navigable waters                     rulemaking, call or email Lieutenant
                                              Coast Guard                                                         immediately prior to, during, and                              Junior Grade Christina Ramirez, U.S.
                                                                                                                  immediately after the surfing                                  Coast Guard Sector San Francisco;
                                              33 CFR Part 100                                                     competition, which is held only one day                        telephone (415) 399–2001, email at D11-
                                                                                                                  between November 1 of each year and                            PF-MarineEvents@uscg.mil.
                                              [Docket Number USCG–2015–0427]
                                                                                                                  March 31 of the following year. This                           SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                              RIN 1625–AA08                                                       revision temporarily restricts vessel
                                                                                                                  traffic in the vicinity of Pillar Point and                    I. Table of Abbreviations
                                              Special Local Regulation; Mavericks                                 prohibits vessels and persons not                              CFR Code of Federal Regulations
                                              Surf Competition, Half Moon Bay, CA                                 participating in or directly supporting                        DHS Department of Homeland Security
                                              AGENCY:      Coast Guard, DHS.                                      the surfing event from entering the                            FR Federal Register
                                                                                                                  dedicated surfing area and a designated                        NPRM Notice of proposed rulemaking
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                                              ACTION:     Final rule.                                                                                                            § Section
                                                                                                                  no-entry area.
                                                                                                                  DATES: This rule is effective December
                                                                                                                                                                                 COTP Captain of the Port
                                              SUMMARY:   The Coast Guard is revising a                                                                                           PATCOM Patrol Commander
                                              special local regulation in the navigable                           18, 2017.                                                      OCMI Officer in Charge of Marine
                                              waters of Half Moon Bay, CA, near Pillar                            ADDRESSES: To view documents                                     Inspections
                                              Point in support of the Mavericks Surf                              mentioned in this preamble as being                            NRPM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
                                              Competition, an annual invitational surf                            available in the docket, go to http://                         U.S.C. United States Code



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                                                               Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 220 / Thursday, November 16, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                       53415

                                              II. Background Information and                           Coast Guard determined a NPRM was                     Francisco the responsibility of issuing
                                              Regulatory History                                       necessary to afford the public the                    such regulations.
                                                                                                       opportunity to comment on the                            The Mavericks Surf Competition is a
                                                 The Mavericks Surf Competition has
                                                                                                       aforementioned updates to the Interim                 one-day ‘‘Big Wave’’ surfing
                                              grown in popularity within the past
                                                                                                       Rule and because the Mavericks Surf                   competition between big wave surfers
                                              several years. Due to the inherent
                                                                                                       Competition would occur before NPRM                   specifically invited to participate by the
                                              dangers of the competition and the
                                                                                                       process was complete. Therefore to meet               event sponsor. The competition only
                                              disruption to the normal uses of the
                                                                                                       the event season deadline, a temporary                occurs when 15–20 foot waves are
                                              waterways in the vicinity of Pillar Point,
                                                                                                       final rule was published in lieu of a                 sustained for over 24 hours and are
                                              the Coast Guard issues a Marine Event
                                                                                                       final rule. Past competitions have                    combined with mild easterly winds of
                                              Permit to the event sponsor. Following
                                                                                                       demonstrated the importance of                        no more than 5–10 knots. The rock and
                                              the collapse of the Cliffside viewing area
                                                                                                       restricting access to the competition                 reef ridges that make up the sea floor of
                                              in 2011, the Coast Guard became                                                                                the Pillar Point area, combined with
                                              concerned that the loss of shore-side                    area to only vessels in direct support of
                                                                                                       the competitors. In the Coast Guard’s                 optimal weather conditions, create the
                                              viewing area would result in a larger                                                                          large waves for which Mavericks is
                                              than expected number of spectator                        assessment, that temporary final rule
                                                                                                       provided an effective scheme to                       known. Due to the hazardous waters
                                              vessels in the vicinity of the event.                                                                          surrounding Pillar Point at the time of
                                                 This final rule formalizes the scheme                 incorporate the Interim Rule updates
                                                                                                       and ensure the safety of life during the              the surfing competition, the Coast Guard
                                              employed during the 2013 and 2014                                                                              is modifying and finalizing the interim
                                              competitions, which proved to be an                      Mavericks Surf Competition.
                                                                                                          On January 10, 2017, we published an               rule which establishes a special local
                                              effective means of separating                                                                                  regulation in the vicinity of Pillar Point
                                              competitors from spectators. The two                     NPRM titled Special Local Regulation;
                                                                                                       Mavericks Surf Competition, Half Moon                 that restricts navigation in the area of
                                              zones and associated regulations                                                                               the surf competition and in neighboring
                                              contained in this final rule are intended                Bay, CA (82 FR 2930). During the
                                                                                                       comment period which ended on                         hazardous areas. This final rule is
                                              to ensure the safety of competitors from                                                                       intended to ensure the safety of
                                              spectator vessels, and enhances the                      February 9, 2017, three comments were
                                                                                                       received.                                             competitors by delineating a specific
                                              safety of spectator vessels by creating a                                                                      competition area, and to provide for the
                                              designated area in which the Coast                          We are implementing the following
                                                                                                                                                             safety of spectators by imposing
                                              Guard may direct the movement of such                    changes to the Interim Rule based on                  operating restrictions on those vessels.
                                              vessels. Because of the dangers posed by                 comments received as well as lessons
                                              the surf conditions during the                           learned during the multi-agency                       IV. Discussion of Comments, Changes,
                                              Mavericks Surf Competition, the special                  planning process. The name of this                    and the Rule
                                              local regulation is necessary to provide                 event has changed over the years based                   As noted above, the Coast Guard
                                              for the safety of event participants,                    on the sponsoring organization. The                   received three respondent comments,
                                              spectators, and other vessels transiting                 Coast Guard is promulgating this rule                 noting several concerns, to the NPRM
                                              the event area. For the safety concerns                  using the event name ‘‘Mavericks Surf                 published on January 10, 2017. One
                                              noted, it is in the public interest to have              Competition’’ to remove any affiliation               comment recommends a more stringent
                                              these regulations in effect during the                   with past or future sponsors and to keep              specificity of swell conditions on the
                                              event.                                                   the name of the event generic and                     day of the event to promote the safe
                                                 On October 15, 2014, the Coast Guard                  applicable to any future sponsoring                   operation of vessels in the area. The
                                              published an interim rule and request                    organizations. In addition to initially               environmental parameters outlined in
                                              for comments in the Federal Register                     placing the buoys to outline Zones 1                  this regulation are determining factors
                                              (79 FR 61762) establishing the special                   and 2, this rule expands the event                    which are necessary precursors to
                                              local regulation 33 CFR 100.1106. We                     sponsor’s designation of responsibility,              optimal conditions for holding the big
                                              received no comments during the                          outlined in the Interim Rule, to include              wave surfing event; conditions which
                                              comment period on the interim rule.                      buoy position maintenance throughout                  typically are not optimal for vessel
                                              Although the event was not held during                   the course of the event. The definition               operations. In order to mitigate the risk
                                              the 2014–2015 season, the planning                       of ‘‘support vessels’’ has been updated               to safe operation of vessels on the day
                                              process proved to be vital in identifying                to specifically include jet skis and to               of the surfing event, the Coast Guard
                                              updates to the rule as proposed here.                    clarify that they must be pre-designated              promulgated the Interim Rule which
                                              This final rule finalizes the Interim Rule               and approved to serve as such for this                defines an operating area for spectator
                                              updates proposed in the Notice of                        event by the Officer in Charge of Marine              vessels. The operating area provides an
                                              Proposed Rule Making.                                    Inspections (OCMI) prior to the                       area for spectator vessels that is
                                                 On November 3, 2015 and November                      competition. Finally, the definition of               minimally influenced by the breaking
                                              23, 2016, we promulgated temporary                       ‘‘spectator vessel’’ was expanded to                  surf. The Coast Guard determined that,
                                              final rules for the Mavericks Surf                       specifically include human-powered                    the introduction of specific swell
                                              Competition, which was most recently                     craft.                                                periodicity as a Coast Guard required
                                              held on February 12, 2016, and                                                                                 condition to hold the competition
                                                                                                       III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule
                                              subsequently not held in the 2016–2017                                                                         would unnecessarily limit favorable
                                              season after the sponsoring organization                   Under 33 CFR 100.35, the Coast                      days in which the surfing event could
                                              filed for bankruptcy. The temporary                      Guard District Commander has                          take place without further mitigating the
                                              rules were needed to incorporate the                     authority to promulgate certain special               risk to vessel operations on the day of
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                                              updates noted in this Final Rule which                   local regulations deemed necessary to                 the event.
                                              include: Requiring buoy position                         ensure the safety of life on the navigable               One comment notes the economic
                                              maintenance by the event sponsors,                       waters immediately before, during, and                determination in the NPRM to be
                                              expanding the definition of ‘‘spectator                  immediately after an approved regatta or              erroneous, as the rule would have a
                                              vessel’’ to include human powered craft                  marine parade. The Commander of                       significant economic impact on a
                                              and expanding the definition of                          Coast Guard District 11 has delegated to              substantial number of small entities.
                                              ‘‘support vessel’’ to include jet skis. The              the Captain of the Port (COTP) San                    The Coast Guard disagrees with this


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                                              53416            Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 220 / Thursday, November 16, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                              comment. The amendments within this                        The Coast Guard is finalizing the                   Below we summarize our analyses
                                              rule do not unduly restrict spectator                    regulations governing the Mavericks                   based on a number of these statutes and
                                              vessel traffic within Zone 2, the                        Surf Competition. The Mavericks Surf                  Executive orders, and we discuss First
                                              spectator viewing area. In contrast, the                 Competition will take place on a day                  Amendment rights of protestors.
                                              Coast Guard aims to facilitate the safe                  that presents favorable surf conditions
                                                                                                                                                             A. Regulatory Planning and Review
                                              viewing of this surf competition by                      between November 1 of each year and
                                              establishing and assigning maintenance                   March 31 of the following year, from 6                   Executive Orders 12866 (‘‘Regulatory
                                              responsibility of a clearly delineated                   a.m. until 6 p.m. The Mavericks Surf                  Planning and Review’’) and 13563
                                              region for spectators to safely maneuver                 Competition can only occur when 15–20                 (‘‘Improving Regulation and Regulatory
                                              while viewing the competition.                           foot waves are sustained for over 24                  Review’’) direct agencies to assess the
                                                 One comment recommends defining                       hours and are combined with mild                      costs and benefits of available regulatory
                                              specific parameters that must be met by                  easterly winds of no more than 5–10                   alternatives and, if regulation is
                                              support vessels. The Coast Guard finds                   knots. Unpredictable weather patterns                 necessary, to select regulatory
                                              that mandating specific vessel                           and the event’s narrow operating                      approaches that maximize net benefits
                                              parameters for ‘‘supporting vessels’’                    window limit the Coast Guard’s ability                (including potential economic,
                                              unduly limits the event sponsor from                     to notify the public of the event. The                environmental, public health and safety
                                              considering all available assets capable                 Coast Guard would issue notice of the                 effects, disruptive impacts, and equity).
                                              of providing support to the event. Under                 event as soon as practicable, but no later            Executive Order 13563 emphasizes the
                                              the current proposal, all vessels                        than 24 hours before Competition day                  importance of quantifying both costs
                                              proposed by the sponsor as ‘‘support                     via the Broadcast Notice to Mariners                  and benefits, of reducing costs, of
                                              vessels’’ must be vetted and approved                    and issue a written Boating Public                    harmonizing rules, and of promoting
                                              for operation, in their capacity, as a                   Safety Notice at least 24 hours in                    flexibility. Executive Order 13771
                                              ‘‘support vessel’’ prior to the day of the               advance of Competition day. Also, the                 (‘‘Reducing Regulation and Controlling
                                              event. The vetting and approval of                       zones that are established by this final              Regulatory Costs’’), directs agencies to
                                              ‘‘support vessels’’ is conducted as a                    rule will be prominently marked by at                 reduce regulation and control regulatory
                                              necessary precursor to the issuance of                   least 8 buoys throughout the course of                costs and provides that ‘‘for every one
                                              the annual Marine Event Permit. In this                  the event.                                            new regulation issued, at least two prior
                                              process, it is incumbent upon the event                    The Mavericks Surf Competition will                 regulations be identified for elimination,
                                              sponsor to propose only vessels                          occur in the navigable waters of Half                 and that the cost of planned regulations
                                              necessary and capable of safely                          Moon Bay, CA, in the vicinity of Pillar               be prudently managed and controlled
                                              providing direct support to event                        Point as depicted in National Oceanic                 through a budgeting process.’’
                                              competitors. Each proposed vessel is                     and Atmospheric Administration                           The Office of Management and Budget
                                              thoroughly evaluated by the OCMI and                     (NOAA) Chart 18682. The Coast Guard                   (OMB) has not designated this rule a
                                              assessed in regards to the Coast Guard’s                 will enforce a regulated area defined by              significant regulatory action under
                                              ability to safely render assistance if                   an arc extending 1,000 yards from Sail                section 3(f) of Executive Order 12866.
                                              needed on the day of the event.                          Rock (37°29′34″ N., 122°30′02″ W.)                    Accordingly, OMB has not reviewed it.
                                              Proposed ‘‘support vessels’’ whose                       excluding the waters within Pillar Point              As this rule is not a significant
                                              maneuverability, crew manning, or                        Harbor. All restrictions apply only                   regulatory action, this rule is exempt
                                              scope of support is found to be                          between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m. on the day                  from the requirements of Executive
                                              insufficient to safely operate within                    of the actual competition.                            Order 13771. See OMB’s memorandum
                                              Zone 1, will be limited in the range of                    The effect of this regulation is to                 ‘‘Guidance Implementing Executive
                                              their operation in support of the event                  restrict navigation in the vicinity of                Order 13771, titled ‘Reducing
                                              or denied approval to serve as a                         Pillar Point during the Mavericks Surf                Regulation and Controlling Regulatory
                                              supporting vessel entirely, as stipulated                Competition. During the enforcement                   Costs’ ’’ (April 5, 2017).
                                              in the documentation associated with                     period, the Coast Guard will direct the
                                                                                                                                                             B. Impact on Small Entities
                                              the annual Marine Event Permit issued                    movement and access of all vessels
                                              to the event sponsor.                                    within the regulated area. The regulated                 The Regulatory Flexibility Act of
                                                 One comment argued that the                           area will be divided into two zones.                  1980, 5 U.S.C. 601–612, as amended,
                                              definition of ‘‘spectator vessel’’ was too               Zone 1 is designated as the competition               requires Federal agencies to consider
                                              vague. The Coast Guard finds that the                    area, and the movement of vessels                     the potential impact of regulations on
                                              definition of a ‘‘spectator vessel’’ as                  within Zone 2 is controlled by the Patrol             small entities during rulemaking. The
                                              ‘‘any vessel or person, including                        Commander (PATCOM).                                   term ‘‘small entities’’ comprises small
                                              human-powered craft, which is not                          This regulation is needed to keep                   businesses, not-for-profit organizations
                                              designated by the sponsor as a support                   spectators and vessels a safe distance                that are independently owned and
                                              vessel’’ serves to differentiate between                 away from the event participants and                  operated and are not dominant in their
                                              conspicuously marked ‘‘support                           the hazardous waters surrounding Pillar               fields, and governmental jurisdictions
                                              vessels’’ which have previously been                     Point. Past competitions have                         with populations of less than 50,000.
                                              vetted and approved by the OCMI as                       demonstrated the importance of                        The Coast Guard did not receive any
                                              part of the Marine Event Permit                          restricting access to the competition                 comments from the Small Business
                                              approval to provide direct support to                    area to only vessels in direct support of             Administration on the Interim rule
                                              the competitors, and all other vessels in                the competitors. Failure to comply with               published on October 15, 2014. The
                                              the area on the day of the event.                        the lawful directions of the Coast Guard              Coast Guard certifies under 5 U.S.C.
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                                                 No changes were made to the rule                      could result in additional vessel                     605(b) that this rule would not have a
                                              based upon the received comments;                        movement restrictions, citation, or both.             significant economic impact on a
                                              however the Coast Guard recognizes the                                                                         substantial number of small entities.
                                              importance of imposing appropriate                       V. Regulatory Analyses                                   Under section 213(a) of the Small
                                              controls on vessels attempting to gain                     We developed this rule after                        Business Regulatory Enforcement
                                              access to the area encompassed by Zone                   considering numerous statutes and                     Fairness Act of 1996 (Pub. L. 104–121),
                                              1 on the day of the competition.                         Executive orders related to rulemaking.               we want to assist small entities in


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                                                               Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 220 / Thursday, November 16, 2017 / Rules and Regulations                                       53417

                                              understanding this rule. If the rule                     particular, the Act addresses actions                 on the waters of Half Moon Bay, located
                                              would affect your small business,                        that may result in the expenditure by a               in the vicinity of Pillar Point, excluding
                                              organization, or governmental                            State, local, or tribal government, in the            the waters within Pillar Point Harbor.
                                              jurisdiction and you have questions                      aggregate, or by the private sector of                This regulated area is defined in
                                              concerning its provisions or options for                 $100,000,000 (adjusted for inflation) or              paragraph (c) of this section.
                                              compliance, please contact the person                    more in any one year. Though this rule                  (b) Enforcement period. This section
                                              listed in the FOR FURTHER INFORMATION                    would not result in such an                           will be enforced between 6 a.m. and 6
                                              CONTACT section.                                         expenditure, we do discuss the effects of             p.m. on Competition day, which if
                                                 Small businesses may send comments                    this rule elsewhere in this preamble.                 defined wave and wind conditions are
                                              on the actions of Federal employees                                                                            met, will occur for one day between
                                              who enforce, or otherwise determine                      F. Environment                                        November 1 of each year and March 31
                                              compliance with, Federal regulations to                    We have analyzed this rule under                    of the following year. Notice of the
                                              the Small Business and Agriculture                       Department of Homeland Security                       specific enforcement date of this section
                                              Regulatory Enforcement Ombudsman                         Management Directive 023–01 and                       will be announced via Broadcast Notice
                                              and the Regional Small Business                          Commandant Instruction M16475.lD,                     to Mariners and issued in writing by the
                                              Regulatory Fairness Boards. The                          which guide the Coast Guard in                        Coast Guard in a Boating Public Safety
                                              Ombudsman evaluates these actions                        complying with the National                           Notice at least 24 hours in advance of
                                              annually and rates each agency’s                         Environmental Policy Act of 1969 (42                  Competition day.
                                              responsiveness to small business. If you                 U.S.C. 4321–4370f), and have made a                     (c) Definitions. As used in this
                                              wish to comment on actions by                            preliminary determination that this                   section—
                                              employees of the Coast Guard, call 1–                    action is one of a category of actions that             Competition day means the one day
                                              888–REG–FAIR (1–888–734–3247). The                       do not individually or cumulatively                   between November 1 of each year and
                                              Coast Guard will not retaliate against                   have a significant effect on the human                March 31 of the following year that
                                              small entities that question or complain                 environment. This rule involves a                     Mavericks Surf Competition will be
                                              about this rule or any policy or action                  regulated area of limited size and                    held. The Mavericks Surf Competition
                                              of the Coast Guard.                                      duration. Normally such actions are                   will only be held if 15 to 20 foot waves
                                                                                                       categorically excluded from further                   are sustained for over 24 hours and are
                                              C. Collection of Information                             review under paragraph 34(h) of Figure                combined with mild easterly winds of
                                                This rule will not call for a new                      2–1 of Commandant Instruction                         no more than 5 to10 knots.
                                              collection of information under the                      M16475.lD. A Record of Environmental                    Competitor means a surfer enrolled in
                                              Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995 (44                      Consideration is available in the docket              the Maverick’s Surf Competition.
                                              U.S.C. 3501–3520).                                       for this rulemaking. We seek any                        Patrol Commander or PATCOM
                                                                                                       comments or information that may lead                 means a Coast Guard Patrol
                                              D. Federalism and Indian Tribal                                                                                Commander, including a Coast Guard
                                              Governments                                              to the discovery of a significant
                                                                                                       environmental impact from this rule.                  coxswain, petty officer, or other officer,
                                                 A rule has implications for federalism                                                                      or a Federal, State, or local officer
                                              under Executive Order 13132,                             G. Protest Activities                                 designated by the Captain of the Port
                                              Federalism, if it has a substantial direct                 The Coast Guard respects the First                  San Francisco (COTP), to assist in the
                                              effect on the States, on the relationship                Amendment rights of protesters.                       enforcement of the special local
                                              between the national government and                      Protesters are asked to contact the                   regulation.
                                              the States, or on the distribution of                    person listed in the FOR FURTHER                        Regulated area means the area in
                                              power and responsibilities among the                     INFORMATION CONTACT section to                        which the Maverick’s Surf Competition
                                              various levels of government. We have                    coordinate protest activities so that your            will take place. This area is bounded by
                                              analyzed this rule under that Order and                  message can be received without                       an arc extending 1000 yards from Sail
                                              have determined that it is consistent                    jeopardizing the safety or security of                Rock (37°29′34″ N., 122°30′02″ W.)
                                              with the fundamental federalism                          people, places, or vessels.                           excluding the waters within Pillar Point
                                              principles and preemption requirements                                                                         Harbor. All coordinates are North
                                              described in Executive Order 13132.                      List of Subjects in 33 CFR Part 100                   American Datum 1983. Within the
                                                 Also, this rule does not have tribal                    Marine safety, Navigation (water),                  regulated area, at least two zones will be
                                              implications under Executive Order                       Reporting and recordkeeping                           established and marked by buoys on the
                                              13175, Consultation and Coordination                     requirements, and Waterways.                          day of the competition. Due to the
                                              with Indian Tribal Governments,                            For the reasons discussed in the                    dynamic and changing nature of the
                                              because it does not have a substantial                   preamble, the Coast Guard amends 33                   surf, the exact size and location of the
                                              direct effect on one or more Indian                      CFR part 100 as follows:                              zones will not be made public until the
                                              tribes, on the relationship between the                                                                        competition day. The zones will be
                                              Federal Government and Indian tribes,                    PART 100—REGATTAS AND MARINE                          prominently marked by at least 8 buoys,
                                              or on the distribution of power and                      PARADES                                               placed and maintained in place
                                              responsibilities between the Federal                                                                           throughout the course of the event by
                                              Government and Indian tribes. If you                     ■  1. The authority citation for part 100             the event sponsor in a pattern approved
                                              believe this rule has implications for                   is revised to read as follows:                        by the PATCOM. In addition, the USCG
                                              federalism or Indian tribes, please                        Authority: 33 U.S.C. 1233; 33 CFR                   will notify the public of the zone
                                              contact the person listed in the FOR                     1.05–1.                                               locations via Broadcast Notice to
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                                              FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT section.                     ■ 2. Revise § 100.1106 to read as                     Mariners on the day of the event.
                                                                                                       follows:                                                Spectator vessel means any vessel or
                                              E. Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                                                                                person, including human-powered craft,
                                                The Unfunded Mandates Reform Act                       § 100.1106 Special Local Regulation;                  which is not designated by the sponsor
                                              of 1995 (2 U.S.C. 1531–1538) requires                    Mavericks Surf Competition.                           as a support vessel.
                                              Federal agencies to assess the effects of                  (a) Location. This special local                      Support vessel means a vessel,
                                              their discretionary regulatory actions. In               regulation establishes a regulated area               including jet skis, which is designated


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                                              53418            Federal Register / Vol. 82, No. 220 / Thursday, November 16, 2017 / Rules and Regulations

                                              and conspicuously marked by the                            (9) During the events, vessel operators             docket, go to http://
                                              sponsor to provide direct support to the                 may contact the PATCOM on VHF–FM                      www.regulations.gov, type [USCG–
                                              competitors. Support vessels must be                     channel 23A.                                          2017–0042] in the ‘‘SEARCH’’ box and
                                              pre-designated and approved to serve as                     Dated: October 16, 2017.                           click ‘‘SEARCH.’’ Click on Open Docket
                                              such for this event by the OCMI prior                    Patrick S. Nelson,                                    Folder on the line associated with this
                                              to the competition.                                      Captain, U.S. Coast Guard, Alternate Captain
                                                                                                                                                             rulemaking.
                                                 Zone 1 means the competition area                     of the Port San Francisco.                               See the ‘‘Public Participation and
                                              within the regulated area. Zone 1 will                                                                         Request for Comments’’ portion of the
                                                                                                       [FR Doc. 2017–24840 Filed 11–15–17; 8:45 am]
                                              generally be located to the northwest of                                                                       SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION section
                                                                                                       BILLING CODE 9110–04–P
                                              a line drawn between Sail Rock                                                                                 below for instructions on submitting
                                              (37°29′34″ N., 122°30′02″ W.) and Pillar                                                                       comments.
                                              Point Entrance Lighted Gong Buoy 1                       DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND                                FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: If
                                              (37°29′10.410″ N., 122°30′21.904″ W.).                   SECURITY                                              you have questions on this interim rule,
                                                 Zone 2 means the area within the                                                                            call or email Lieutenant Commander
                                              regulated area where the Coast Guard                     Coast Guard                                           Rebecca Deakin, U.S. Coast Guard
                                              may direct the movement of all vessels,                                                                        Sector San Francisco; telephone (415)
                                              including restricting vessels from this                  33 CFR Part 165                                       399–7401 or email at D11-PF-
                                              area. Zone 2 will generally be located to                                                                      MarineEvents@uscg.mil.
                                                                                                       [Docket No. USCG–2017–0042]
                                              the southeast of a line drawn between                                                                          SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
                                              Sail Rock (37°29′34″ N., 122°30′02″ W.)                  RIN 1625–AA00
                                              and Pillar Point Entrance Lighted Gong                                                                         I. Table of Abbreviations
                                              Buoy 1 (37°29′10.410″ N.,                                Safety Zones; Humboldt Bay Bar,
                                                                                                                                                             APA Administrative Procedures Act
                                              122°30′21.904″ W.).                                      Eureka, CA, Noyo River Entrance, Ft.                  COTP Captain of the Port
                                                 (d) Special Local Regulations. The                    Bragg, CA, and Crescent City Harbor                   DHS Department of Homeland Security
                                              following regulations apply between 6                    Entrance Channel, Crescent City, CA                   E.O. Executive Order
                                              a.m. and 6 p.m. on the competition day.                  AGENCY:  Coast Guard, DHS.                            FR Federal Register
                                                 (1) Only support vessels may be                                                                             NPRM Notice of Proposed Rulemaking
                                                                                                       ACTION: Temporary Interim rule and
                                              authorized by the Patrol Commander                       request for comments                                  II. Background Information and
                                              (PATCOM) to enter Zone 1 during the                                                                            Regulatory History
                                              competition.                                             SUMMARY:    The Coast Guard is
                                                                                                       establishing temporary safety zones in                   The Coast Guard is issuing this
                                                 (2) Entering the water in Zone 1 by                                                                         temporary interim rule without prior
                                              any person other than the competitors is                 the navigable waters of the Humboldt
                                                                                                       Bay Entrance Channel, of Eureka, CA,                  notice and opportunity to comment
                                              prohibited. Competitors may enter the                                                                          pursuant to authority under section 4(a)
                                              water in Zone 1 from authorized                          Noyo River Entrance Channel, of Fort
                                                                                                       Bragg, CA, and Crescent City Harbor                   of the Administrative Procedure Act
                                              support vessels only.                                                                                          (APA) (5 U.S.C. 553(b)). This provision
                                                 (3) Spectator vessels and support                     Entrance Channel, of Crescent City, CA
                                                                                                       to safeguard navigation safety during                 authorizes an agency to issue a rule
                                              vessels within Zone 2 must maneuver as                                                                         without prior notice and opportunity to
                                              directed by PATCOM. Given the                            extreme environmental conditions.
                                                                                                       These safety zones are established to                 comment when the agency for good
                                              changing nature of the surf in the                                                                             cause finds that those procedures are
                                              vicinity of the competition, PATCOM                      protect the safety of vessels transiting
                                                                                                       the areas from the dangers associated                 ‘‘impracticable, unnecessary, or contrary
                                              may close Zone 2 to all vessels due to                                                                         to the public interest.’’
                                              hazardous conditions. Due to weather                     with extreme breaking surf and high
                                                                                                                                                                Under 5 U.S.C. 553(b)(B), the Coast
                                              and sea conditions, the Captain of the                   wind conditions occurring in the
                                                                                                                                                             Guard finds that good cause exists for
                                              Port may deny access to Zone 2 and the                   Humboldt Bay Bar Channel, Noyo River
                                                                                                                                                             not publishing a notice of proposed
                                              remainder of the regulated area to all                   Entrance Channel, and Crescent City
                                                                                                                                                             rulemaking (NPRM) with respect to this
                                              vessels other than competitors and                       Harbor Entrance Channels. When
                                                                                                                                                             rule. Publishing an NPRM would be
                                              support vessels on the day of the event                  enforced, entry of persons or vessels
                                                                                                                                                             impracticable in this case due to having
                                                 (4) Entering the water in Zone 2 by                   into this temporary safety zone is
                                                                                                                                                             received initial notice of the extreme
                                              any person is prohibited.                                prohibited unless specifically
                                                                                                                                                             environmental and weather conditions
                                                 (5) Rafting and anchoring of vessels                  authorized by the Captain of the Port
                                                                                                                                                             substantiating this rule on October 19,
                                              are prohibited within the regulated area.                (COTP), San Francisco or his designated
                                                                                                                                                             2017.
                                                 (6) Only vessels authorized by the                    representative.                                          Under 5 U.S.C. 553(d)(3), the Coast
                                              PATCOM will be permitted to tow other                    DATES: This rule is effective without                 Guard finds that good cause exists for
                                              watercraft within the regulated area.                    actual notice from November 16, 2017                  making this rule effective less than 30
                                                 (7) Spectator and support vessels in                  until 11:59 p.m. on March 31, 2018. For               days after publication in the Federal
                                              Zones 1 and 2 must operate at speeds                     the purposes of enforcement, actual                   Register, as delaying the effective date
                                              which will create minimum wake, in                       notice will be used from October 27,                  of this rule would be impracticable due
                                              general, 7 miles per hour or less.                       2017 until November 16, 2017. This rule               to the timing of the forecast
                                                 (8) When hailed or signaled by the                    will be enforced when the COTP                        environmental and weather conditions.
                                              PATCOM by a succession of sharp,                         determines that the on scene conditions
                                              short signals by whistle or horn, the                    are hazardous and unsafe for vessel                   III. Legal Authority and Need for Rule
nshattuck on DSK9F9SC42PROD with RULES




                                              hailed vessel must come to an                            transits, typically expected to be 20 foot               The Coast Guard is issuing this rule
                                              immediate stop and comply with the                       breaking seas at each location.                       under authority in 33 U.S.C. 1231. The
                                              lawful directions issued. Failure to                     Enforcement will be announced via                     Captain of the Port (COTP), San
                                              comply with a lawful direction may                       local Broadcast Notice to Mariners.                   Francisco has determined that this rule
                                              result in additional operating                           ADDRESSES: You may submit comments                    is necessary to provide for the safety of
                                              restrictions, citation for failure to                    view documents mentioned in this                      Coast Guard members, mariners, and
                                              comply, or both.                                         preamble as being available in the                    other vessels transiting the area where


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Document Created: 2017-11-16 03:53:34
Document Modified: 2017-11-16 03:53:34
CategoryRegulatory Information
CollectionFederal Register
sudoc ClassAE 2.7:
GS 4.107:
AE 2.106:
PublisherOffice of the Federal Register, National Archives and Records Administration
SectionRules and Regulations
ActionFinal rule.
DatesThis rule is effective December 18, 2017.
ContactIf you have questions about this rulemaking, call or email Lieutenant Junior Grade Christina Ramirez, U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Francisco; telephone (415) 399-2001, email at [email protected]
FR Citation82 FR 53414 
RIN Number1625-AA08
CFR AssociatedMarine Safety; Navigation (water); Reporting and Recordkeeping Requirements and Waterways

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