CFR > Title 30 - Mineral Resources > CHAPTER II—MINERALS MANAGEMENT SERVICE, DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR > SUBCHAPTER B—OFFSHORE (parts 250 to 285) > PART 285—RENEWABLE ENERGY ALTERNATE USES OF EXISTING FACILITIES ON THE OUTER CONTINENTAL SHELF > SUBPART A—General Provisions (§285.100 to §285.118) > 285.103—When may MMS prescribe or approve departures from these regulations?

285.103—When may MMS prescribe or approve departures from these regulations?

(a) The MMS may prescribe or approve departures from these regulations when departures are necessary to:
(1) Facilitate the appropriate activities on a lease or grant under this part;
(2) Conserve natural resources;
(3) Protect life (including human and wildlife), property, or the marine, coastal, or human environment; or
(4) Protect sites, structures, or objects of historical or archaeological significance.
(b) Any departure approved under this section and its rationale must:
(1) Be consistent with sub section 8(p) of the OCS Lands Act;
(2) Protect the environment and the public health and safety to the same degree as if there was no approved departure from the regulations;
(3) Not impair the rights of third parties; and
(4) Be documented in writing.