Special Harbor, Pilot and Customs Rule

Question 1

harbormaster

Answer 1

fire station on S Fawcett St.

Question 2

When the tide exceeds

Answer 2

11’ in Seattle it will be announced by VTS, vessels should minimize wake.

Free floating logs, deadheads, and sinkers can be navigational hazards during periods of high tides.

Question 3

Speed Limit

Answer 3

5kt speed limit is a city ordinance in Tacoma waterways and within 200yds of any shore or pier.

Question 4

Tacoma is customs

Answer 4

port of entry. Immigration, quarantine, customs and agriculture regulations are enforced.

Question 5

Security Zones

Answer 5

Blair and Sitcum waterways will be enforced when directed by the COTP.
Can not enter without permission. Vessels greater than 20m must give 4hrs notice, vessels less than 20m one hour notice.

Question 6

The Foss Waterway Bridges

Answer 6

• 11th Street, Murray Morgan – 1 prolonged, 1 short, 2 hours’ notice, need not open for vessels or tows less than 1000 GT btw 0630-0830 + 1530-1730 M-F except federal holidays.
  Has a clearance of 64’ down, and 139’ up.
• A fixed highway bridge near the head of the waterway has a clearance of 28’, 36’ center.

Question 7

11th Street Hylebos Bridge –

Answer 7

Opens on approach with communication to the tender on VHF 13 or 16.