(a) In this section, “transverse dimension” means the measurement across both shells of a hard–shell clam at the widest point perpendicular to the hinge line where the two shells meet.
(b) A clam dealer may possess hard–shell clams having a transverse dimension of less than the size required by the Department if the dealer offers a bill of lading approved by the Department as proof that all clams were caught in waters outside the State.