Connecticut Administrative Code Title 15 - Navigation and Aeronautics
Connecticut Administrative Code — Title 15: Navigation and Aeronautics
1. Overview
Title 15 of the Connecticut Administrative Code governs matters related to navigation, maritime operations, and aeronautics within the state. It contains the rules and regulations established by state agencies responsible for waterways, ports, shipping, and aviation safety.
The title is primarily designed to:
Ensure safe operation of vessels, airports, and aviation facilities.
Establish licensing and operational requirements for mariners, pilots, and aircraft operators.
Set standards for inspection, safety, and environmental compliance in navigation and aeronautics.
Coordinate state policy in maritime and aviation activities, including enforcement and penalties for violations.
The rules under Title 15 implement statutes passed by the Connecticut General Assembly related to navigable waters, maritime commerce, and aeronautics.
2. Organizational Structure
Title 15 is divided into sections that correspond to the state agencies and functions responsible for navigation and aeronautics. Key components include:
a. Department of Energy and Environmental Protection – Bureau of Marine
Vessel Licensing and Registration: Rules for registration, numbering, and operation of recreational and commercial vessels.
Safety Regulations: Equipment requirements, life jackets, and navigational lights.
Enforcement: Inspections, citations, and penalties for violations of maritime safety laws.
Harbor and Waterway Management: Rules regarding mooring, anchorage, and use of public waterways.
b. Office of Aeronautics / Connecticut Airport Authority
Aircraft Registration and Licensing: Procedures for registering aircraft and issuing pilot licenses.
Airport Operations: Standards for state-owned airports and public-use aviation facilities.
Safety and Security Regulations: Procedures for inspections, emergency planning, and accident reporting.
Airspace and Flight Rules: Rules governing operation of aircraft in Connecticut airspace, including compliance with federal aviation standards.
c. Navigation Safety and Environmental Compliance
Pollution Control: Requirements for preventing oil spills, sewage discharge, and environmental contamination from vessels.
Maritime Traffic Control: Rules governing vessel movement in state waters, including speed limits, restricted zones, and reporting requirements.
Emergency Procedures: Guidelines for reporting accidents, grounding, or hazardous material incidents.
3. Key Procedures and Requirements
Licensing: Individuals operating vessels or aircraft must meet training, testing, and certification standards.
Reporting: Operators must maintain records of accidents, maintenance, and inspections.
Inspections: State agencies may inspect vessels, aircraft, and related facilities to ensure compliance with safety and environmental standards.
Penalties: Violations of Title 15 regulations can result in fines, suspension of licenses, or other enforcement actions.
Rulemaking: Agencies may issue or amend rules under Title 15 to address emerging safety, environmental, or operational concerns, with public notice and comment periods.
4. Purpose of Title 15
The overarching goals of Title 15 are to:
Promote safe and efficient navigation on Connecticut waterways.
Ensure safe aviation practices at public and state airports.
Protect the environment from pollution caused by maritime or aeronautical operations.
Provide clear procedures for licensing, inspections, and compliance.
Establish standards for state oversight and enforcement in navigation and aeronautics.

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