The Inland Rules count as what under International Rule 1(b)?

Special rules made by an appropriate authority

Rule 1: Application (COLREGS)

Last reviewed October 21, 2026

The short answer

Rule 1 sets where the rules apply. The International Rules apply to all vessels on the high seas and connected waters navigable by seagoing vessels. The U.S. Inland Rules apply on U.S. inland waters, and to U.S. vessels on the Canadian waters of the Great Lakes where there's no conflict with Canadian law.

The rule text

These Rules shall apply to all vessels upon the high seas and in all waters connected therewith navigable by seagoing vessels.
International Rules, U.S. Coast Guard Navigation Rules and Regulations Handbook (NAVCEN, 2024 corrected edition), Rule 1

These Rules apply to all vessels upon the inland waters of the United States, and to vessels of the United States on the Canadian waters of the Great Lakes to the extent that there is no conflict with Canadian law.
Inland Rules, 33 CFR Part 83 (eCFR), Rule 1

What it means on the water

International rules: high seas and connected navigable waters (1(a)).
Special local rules may exist for harbors, rivers, and inland waterways, and should conform as closely as possible (1(b)). The Inland Rules are such special rules (Inland 1(b)(i)).
Governments may set extra signals for warships, convoys, and fishing fleets (1(c)).
Vessels of special construction may get the closest possible compliance determination (1(e)).

International vs Inland

Different by design: each sets its own waters. Inland 1(b)(ii) says vessels complying with International construction and equipment requirements are considered in compliance with the Inland Rules. The boundary is set by the COLREGS Demarcation Lines (33 CFR Part 80).

Common exam traps

Assuming International rules apply in every U.S. harbor.
Forgetting U.S. vessels on Canadian Great Lakes waters fall under Inland Rule 1(a).

Try 3 questions on Rule 1

Where do the International Rules apply?
1. Only outside 12 miles
2. High seas and connected waters navigable by seagoing vessels
3. Only in U.S. waters
4. Only on the Great Lakes
Show answer
B. High seas and connected waters navigable by seagoing vessels Rule 1(a).
The Inland Rules count as what under International Rule 1(b)?
1. Exemptions
2. Special rules made by an appropriate authority
3. Annexes
4. Distress signals
Show answer
B. Special rules made by an appropriate authority Inland Rule 1(b)(i).
A vessel meeting International equipment rules operating Inland is:
1. Non-compliant
2. Considered in compliance
3. Exempt from all rules
4. Required to refit
Show answer
B. Considered in compliance Inland Rule 1(b)(ii).

Frequently asked questions

Where is the line between Inland and International waters?

The COLREGS Demarcation Lines in 33 CFR Part 80.

Do the Inland Rules apply on the Great Lakes?

Yes. The Inland Rules cover U.S. inland waters, including the Great Lakes on the U.S. side, and U.S. vessels on Canadian Great Lakes waters where no conflict with Canadian law.

What are special rules?

Local rules for roadsteads, harbors, rivers, lakes, or inland waterways, which should conform as closely as possible to the International Rules (Rule 1(b)).