46 CFR 170.001: Applicability.

(a) This subchapter applies to each vessel that is—

(1) Contracted for on or after March 11, 1996, except where specifically stated otherwise; and

(2) Either—

(i) Inspected under another subchapter of this chapter, or is a foreign vessel that must comply with the requirements in subchapter O of this chapter; or

(ii) Required by either subchapter C or subchapter E of this chapter to meet applicable requirements contained in this subchapter.

(b) Each vessel contracted for before March 11, 1996 may be constructed in accordance with the regulations in effect at the time. However, any alterations or repairs must be done in accordance with § 170.005.

(c) Certain regulations in this subchapter apply only to limited categories of vessels. Specific applicability statements are provided at the beginning of those regulations.