46 USC Appendix 292 - Vessels that may engage in dredging

46 USC Appendix 292 - Vessels that may engage in dredging

(a) In general 
Except as provided in subsection (b) of this section, a vessel may engage in dredging in the navigable waters of the United States only if
(1) the vessel meets the requirements of section 883 of this Appendix and sections 802 and 803 of this Appendix for engaging in the coastwise trade;
(2) when chartered, the charterer of the vessel is a citizen of the United States under sections 802 and 803 of this Appendix for engaging in the coastwise trade; and
(3) for a vessel that is at least 5 net tons, the vessel is documented under chapter 121 of title 46 with a coastwise endorsement.
(b) Exception 
A documented vessel with a registry endorsement may engage in the dredging of gold in Alaska.
(c) Penalty 
When a vessel is operated in knowing violation of this section, that vessel and its equipment are liable to seizure by and forfeiture to the United States Government.