NOAA Seeks Feedback on Renewing West Coast Fishing Permits
Published Date: 12/22/2025
Notice
Summary
NOAA is asking for public feedback on renewing the paperwork needed for fishing permits in the West Coast region. This affects fishermen and vessel owners who need permits to fish legally under federal rules. Comments are open until February 20, 2026, and the goal is to keep the process smooth without adding extra costs or hassle.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 0 benefits, 4 costs, 0 mixed.
Exempted Fishing Permit Reporting Burden
If you apply for or hold an Exempted Fishing Permit (EFP), you must provide written applications, preseason harvest plans, interim or final summary reports, and in some cases vessel logbooks or catch reports. The notice lists time estimates such as EFP requests at 60 minutes and EFP reports at 4.5 hours, and scientific research plans at 13 hours with research reports at 7 hours.
Continued West Coast Permit Applications
If you are a fisherman or vessel owner, you must continue to submit applications to get West Coast federal fishing permits (open access and limited entry) under ICR 0648-0204. The collection is being renewed and applicants for these permits are required to apply but are not required to submit reports on their fishing activities under these open access or limited entry permits.
LOA and EEAA Application Requirements
If you seek a Letter of Authorization (LOA) or an Exempted Educational Activity Authorization (EEAA), you must submit required plans and reports under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) and related authorities. The notice lists EEAA requests at 5 hours and EEAA reports at 2.5 hours as estimated burdens.
Annual Burden and Cost Estimates
NOAA estimates this information collection affects 1,099 respondents with a total annual burden of 233 hours and an estimated total annual cost to the public of $4,780. The primary submission method is electronic (internet) with paper applications available by mail, and the public may comment through February 20, 2026.
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