Are emergency vessels (e.g., fire boats, police boats) eligible for coverage under the VGP?
Yes, emergency vessels that are greater than 79 feet in length or have ballast water discharges are eligible for coverage under the VGP. Discussion Permit requirements apply to discharges incidental to the normal operation of emergency vessels. In addition, for these vessels, the VGP in Part 5.7 authorizes the discharge of waste streams in conjunction with training, testing and maintenance operations of emergency vessels, provided that they comply with all additional requirements of the Clean Water Act (Section 311) and the National Contingency Plan (40 CFR Part 300).
