Guidance

Small fishing vessel safety requirements

Information about safety requirements for registering small fishing vessels.

• From: Maritime and Coastguard Agency
• Published: 1 May 2014
• Last updated: 31 January 2020 — See all updates

Documents

MSN 1871 Amendment 1

PDF, 2.16 MB, 59 pages

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MGN 581 (F) FISHING VESSELS: Registration Surveys for Fishing Vessels of less 15m built before 16 July 2007

PDF, 214 KB, 6 pages

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List of Authorised Surveyors

PDF, 25.5 KB, 3 pages

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Details

Small fishing vessels ie those under 15m length overall (LOA) don’t need a regular statutory survey. However, UK law requires that they are seaworthy and equipped to a safe standard before they can be registered.

This guidance advises you about the types of certificate and inspection you need. This depends on the LOA and age of your vessel.

You’ll also find details of who to contact to arrange for a safety inspection.

Single Handed Fishing

The MCA has published a new leaflet provided guidance on specific areas you need to consider if you fish on your own.

Single Handed Fishing Guidance

Published 1 May 2014
Last updated 31 January 2020 + show all updates

1. 31 January 2020

   Updated link, added hyperlink

2. 15 March 2018

   New documents added

3. 1 May 2014

   First published.