Current Regulations

All leasing and operations on the Federal offshore are governed by laws and regulations that ensure safe operations and preservation of the environment, while balancing the Nation's needs for energy development. The Bureau enforces compliance with these regulations and periodically updates rules to reflect advancements in technology and new information. This section provides access to the rules being developed, public participation in rulemaking, and compliance requirements.  

• Federal Register Notices – the Federal regulatory process and Federal Register notices on Bureau regulatory actions.
• Notices to Lessees (NTLs) – informal communications with operators and contractors that further clarify regulations
• Regulatory Compliance – laws, regulations, and notices that govern offshore leasing and operations. 
• Regulations.gov – a U.S. government web site that enables the public to review and submit comments on Federal documents.