NOAA Simplifies Scallop, Tilefish Quota Fee Rules
Published Date: 9/11/2026
Rule
Summary
This final rule implements regulatory and administrative changes to improve the Greater Atlantic Region's Catch Share Cost Recovery Programs. These updates are intended to simplify regulations and reduce costs for the Atlantic Sea Scallop Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ), Golden Tilefish IFQ, and Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog Individual Transferable Quota (ITQ) fisheries. This action will result in improved administration and management of the Atlantic sea scallop, golden tilefish, and Atlantic surfclam and ocean quahog fisheries.
Analyzed Economic Effects
4 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 1 costs, 1 mixed.
Billing standardized to Net 30 timeline
NMFS will mail cost recovery bills within 6 months after the end of each cost recovery period and payment will be due within 30 days of the bill date for all three GARFO LAPPs. Previously, Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog ITQ bills were due in 30 days, Golden Tilefish IFQ in 45 days, and Atlantic Sea Scallop IFQ in 60 days; the scallop cost recovery year runs October 1 through September 31 (bills sent before the end of the following March) and the other two follow the calendar year (bills sent before the end of the following June).
Permit renewal requires prior fee payment
Permit holders in these LAPPs cannot renew their permits until the previous year's cost recovery fee is paid, consistent with the regulations cited at 50 CFR 648.53(h)(4)(iii), 648.74(c)(6)(iii)(C)(1), and 648.294(h)(5)(vi). This requirement remains in effect and applies to Atlantic Sea Scallop IFQ, Golden Tilefish IFQ, and Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog ITQ permit holders.
Small bills under $25 are waived
If you hold a permit in the Atlantic Sea Scallop IFQ, Golden Tilefish IFQ, or Atlantic Surfclam and Ocean Quahog ITQ programs, NMFS will waive cost recovery bills that are under $25. Amounts under $25 will be rolled into the following year's cost recovery accounting so GARFO still collects total program costs over time.
Electronic payment required with options
Cost recovery payments must be made electronically via the Federal web portal (https://www.pay.gov) or other internet sites designated by the Regional Administrator, with payment options including credit card or direct ACH withdrawal. NMFS may allow payment by check only if it has determined electronic payment is not possible (for example, if an area is affected by catastrophic conditions).
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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