Fuel Systems

Manufacturer Requirements

A fuel tank is not permitted to be a structural part of a boat to the extent that it provides support for a deck, bulkhead or other boat structure. To determine whether the intent of this regulation is met, the following question must be answered in the affirmative - Is the deck, bulkhead or other structural component properly supported to function as intended with the fuel tank removed? If the answer is no, the tank is providing support that is not acceptable.

It is not intended to prohibit incidental contact of a deck, or hatch with a fuel tank, or to prevent the use of protective covers or panels for fuel tanks. The Coast Guard has also accepted fuel tanks specifically designed to be walked or sat upon: Protective mats or panels resting on the tank top to provide a walking surface have also been accepted by the Coast Guard.

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