250.1722—If I install a subsea protective device, what requirements must I meet?
If you install a subsea protective device under § 250.1721(f)(3), you must install it in a manner that allows fishing gear to pass over the obstruction without damage to the obstruction, the protective device, or the fishing gear.
(a)
Use form MMS-124, Application for Permit to Modify to request approval from the appropriate District Manager to install a subsea protective device.
(b)
The protective device may not extend more than 10 feet above the seafloor (unless MMS approves otherwise).
(c)
You must trawl over the protective device when you install it (adhere to the requirements at § 250.1741 (d) through (h)). If the trawl does not pass over the protective device or causes damage to it, you must notify the appropriate District Manager within 5 days and perform remedial action within 30 days of the trawl;
(d)
Within 30 days after you complete the trawling test described in paragraph (c) of this section, submit a report to the appropriate District Manager using form MMS-124, Application for Permit to Modify, that includes the following:
(5)
A summary of the results of the trawling test including a discussion of any snags and interruptions, a description of any damage to the protective covering, the casing stub or mud line suspension equipment, or the trawl, and a discussion of any snag removals requiring diver assistance; and
(6)
A letter signed by your authorized representative stating that he/she witnessed the trawling test.
(e)
If a temporarily abandoned well is protected by a subsea device installed in a water depth less than 100 feet, mark the site with a buoy installed according to the USCG requirements.
(f)
Provide annual reports to the Regional Supervisor describing your plans to either re-enter and complete the well or to permanently plug the well.
(g)
Ensure that all subsea wellheads, casing stubs, mud line suspensions, or other obstructions in water depths less than 300 feet remain protected.
(1)
To confirm that the subsea protective covering remains properly installed, either conduct a visual inspection or perform a trawl test at least annually.
(2)
If the inspection reveals that a casing stub or mud line suspension is no longer properly protected, or if the trawl does not pass over the subsea protective covering without causing damage to the covering, the casing stub or mud line suspension equipment, or the trawl, notify the appropriate District Manager within 5 days, and perform the necessary remedial work within 30 days of discovery of the problem.
(3)
In your annual report required by paragraph (f) of this section, include the inspection date, results, and method used and a description of any remedial work you will perform or have performed.
(h)
You may request approval to waive the trawling test required by paragraph (c) of this section if you plan to use either:
(1)
A buoy with automatic tracking capabilities installed and maintained according to USCG requirements at 33 CFR part 67 (or its successor); or
(2)
A design and installation method that has been proven successful by trawl testing of previous protective devices of the same design and installed in areas with similar bottom conditions.