Where do oil pollution regulations apply?

Oil pollution regulations are designed to protect the environment by governing the discharge of oil and hazardous substances into specific areas. These regulations apply broadly, particularly in navigable waters, which include a wide range of aquatic environments such as rivers, lakes, and coastal areas where interstate commerce occurs. The inclusion of shorelines and contiguous zones is crucial, as these areas can be directly impacted by oil spills and other discharges, affecting wildlife, vegetation, and human activities.

In contrast, regulations do not typically apply solely to private property, international waters, or exclusively to lakes and rivers. This is because private property may have different jurisdictional authorities, and international waters are governed by separate international laws. Focusing exclusively on specific inland water bodies would not encompass the broader intent of oil pollution regulations aimed at protecting the contiguous ecosystems and navigable waters critical for commerce and environmental health. Hence, the most comprehensive and relevant application of oil pollution regulations is in navigable waters, their shorelines, and contiguous zones of the US.