Private Aids to Navigation

(PATON) (Non-Bridge Projects)

What is the Purpose of this Permit?

Private Aids to Navigation (PATON) refers to all marine aids to navigation operated in the navigable waters of the United States other than those operated by the Federal Government or those operated in State waters for private aids to navigation. This includes lighted structures and daybeacons, lighted and unlighted buoys, RACONs and fog signals.

To ensure the safety of the boating public the Coast Guard is required to review all work performed within the navigable waters of the United States and determine whether or not such work (i.e. installation of a fixed structure or floating object) will require to be marked with PATON.

Non-commercial, single-boat, mooring buoys do not require a Coast Guard permit, provided they do not cause more than a minimal adverse effect on navigation and display the standard markings. The same is true of most information and regulatory marks, such as swim buoys, no-wake buoys, and race course buoys. For these the Coast Guard issues a letter of no objection. Owners contemplating establishing such buoys need to contact the Office of Regulatory Assistance for additional permit requirements.

Who issues this Permit?

United States Coast Guard

What Activities Require this Permit?

Installation of a fixed structure or floating object within the waters of the United States.

How Much Will this Permit Cost?

None.

Where Can I Get the Application for this Permit?

The application which is called 'Joint Aquatic Resource Permits Application (JARPA) form', is online and can be downloaded at http://www.epermitting.wa.gov/site/alias__resourcecenter/jarpa/9983/jarpa.aspx.

Is the Decision on my Permit Dependent on Anything Besides the Information in my Application?

PATON Permit requires prior Army Corps of Engineers permit approval for the work being done.

How Long Will it Take to Review my Application?

Where do I Submit my Application?

Upon review of Army Corps of Engineers, state, county, city/town permits or direct contact from an individual the Coast Guard will give a ruling and determine whether or not the work in questions will require a PATON to be installed and an application approved.

How Long is my Permit Valid?

A permit only needs to be renewed if there are changes made to the structure that affect the condition of the permit. For example changes in ownership, dock relocation, removal of a buoy, etc.

What is the Appeal Process for the Permit?

Appeals must be made in writing to the 13th Coast Guard District Commander via the application approving official.

Links:

• United States Coast Guard PATON

Statewide Contact:

* Permit information last updated 8/4/2008.

Permit Handbook > Federal Requirements

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