What does NOI stand for in the VGP context?

• A. Notice of Inquiry
• B. Notice of Inspection
• C. Notice of Implementation
• D. Notice of Intent

Answer: (D)

In the Vessel General Permit context, the NOI is the Notice of Intent to be covered by the permit for discharges incidental to the operation of a vessel. Submitting this document signals to the regulator that you intend to operate under the VGP and provides essential details about the vessel, its home port, and the discharge categories you plan to cover. This step starts the authorization process, so the vessel can legally discharge under the permit once coverage is granted.

This isn’t a Notice of Inquiry, which would be a request for information; it isn’t a Notice of Inspection, which relates to enforcement inspections; and it isn’t a Notice of Implementation, which would refer to putting measures into action. In the VGP framework, the term used to initiate regulatory coverage is Notice of Intent.