What is the law regarding ship registration?

In South Carolina, ships must be registered with the South Carolina Department of Natural Resources’ Maritime Division in order to legally operate in state waters. All boats propelled by machinery, sailing vessels over twelve feet in length, and all vessels used for business or commercial purposes must be registered and display a valid registration decal. Registration is valid for two years and must be renewed before expiration. The applicant must provide proof of ownership and pay the corresponding registration fee. Additionally, they may have to provide an affidavit of lienholder (if financed) and proof of insurance. The fee depends on the length of the vessel, and those under the age of 16 may be exempt from the fees. Once approved, the department will then provide the owner with a registration certificate and decal which must be permanently affixed to the vessel in an easy-to-see location. It is important to note that the law does not apply to vessels that are owned by non-residents and are used only part of the year in South Carolina waters. The vessel must hail from and be registered in the owner’s home state. In order to operate in state waters, non-resident owners must abide by the local laws and regulations of the state in which their vessel is registered.

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What is the law regarding ship registration?

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