Tug Escort Requirements Beginning December 21, 2025
Rule Adoption
On November 20, 2025, the BPC adopted a new section of Chapter 363-116 WAC, Pilotage Rules, to establish tug escort requirements for laden oil tankers between 5,000 and 40,000 deadweight tons, barges and articulated tug barges greater than 5,000 deadweight tons. The adopted rule closes critical safety gaps for vessels carrying oil in bulk, reducing the risk of a catastrophic oil spill in Puget Sound and helping to protect wildlife, including endangered South Residence Killer Whales, fisheries, public health, and Washington's economy.
New Rule Area
The new rule keeps the tug escort requirements in Rosario Strait and waters east, as codified by statute in 2020, and expands approximately 29 square miles to the northwest towards Patos Island. A detailed description of the required escort area can be found in the CR 103 filed on November 20, 2025.