33 CFR § 245.50Chapter II

§ 245.50 Removal by Corps of Engineers.

Primary source

Verbatim text below is from the Electronic Code of Federal Regulations (eCFR), a public-domain U.S. government work. Always verify the current version with the eCFR before relying on it for any legal matter.

Full Text

Non-emergency situations.(a) In non-emergency situations, the District Engineer may undertake removal action (within the limits of delegation) after all of the following conditions have been met:

(1) A determination has been made, in consultation with the Coast Guard, that the obstruction is a hazard to navigation,

(2) The District Engineer and the Coast Guard agree on a course of action which includes the need for removal (or, if a conflict exists, the need for removal has been resolved at higher level),

(3) The District Engineer has made a reasonable attempt to identify the owner, operator, or lessee, and

(4) Abandonment of the wreck or obstruction has been established.

Emergency actions.(b) In emergency situations, the District Engineer may bypass (within the limits of delegation) any or all of the four conditions in the preceding paragraph if, in his judgment, circumstances require more immediate action, and if either one of the following conditions are met:

(1) The obstruction impedes or stops navigation, or

(2) The obstruction poses an immediate threat to life, property, or a structure that facilitates navigation.

eCFR data current as of: June 10, 2026

This is legal information, not legal advice. Laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. Always verify current law with official sources and consult a licensed attorney in your jurisdiction for advice on your specific situation.