§1411 Prohibited Activities by United States Citizens

Summary

U.S. citizens may not do deep-sea exploration or commercial mining on the ocean floor unless they have permission from the United States, from another country that gives the same permission, or under an international agreement. There are exceptions for things like scientific research, taking harmless measurements or small samples, testing or building gear on shore (or when only tiny amounts of minerals are recovered), supplying licensed projects, and federal government work. People already exploring before June 28, 1980, may keep going if they apply for a license within the time the agency sets after rules are made, and until a final decision is reached. If the President or the agency finds immediate danger to the environment or to safety at sea, the agency can order an immediate stop (and that order can be reviewed in court). Filing on time gives priority for a license, and the agency will weigh who started first, how continuous and extensive the work was, and money spent if several applicants claim the same area. U.S. citizens must not interfere with legally licensed activities and must respect other countries’ interests on the high seas.