(a) This subchapter is applicable to all U.S.-flag towing vessels as defined in §136.110 engaged in pushing, pulling, or hauling alongside, except—

(1) A vessel less than 26 feet (7.92 meters) in length measured from end to end over the deck (excluding the sheer), unless that vessel is pushing, pulling, or hauling a barge that is carrying oil or hazardous material in bulk;

(2) A vessel engaged in one or more of the following:

(i) Assistance towing as defined in §136.110;

(ii) Towing recreational vessels for salvage; or

(iii) Transporting or assisting the navigation of recreational vessels within and between marinas and marina facilities, within a limited geographic area, as determined by the local Captain of the Port (COTP);

(3) A workboat operating exclusively within a worksite and performing intermittent towing within the worksite;

(4) A seagoing towing vessel of 300 gross tons or more subject to the provisions of subchapter I of this chapter;

(5) A vessel inspected under other subchapters of this chapter that may perform occasional towing;

(6) A public vessel as defined in 46 U.S.C. 2101;

(7) A vessel that has surrendered its COI and is laid up, dismantled, or otherwise out of service; and

(8) A propulsion unit used for the purpose of propelling or controlling the direction of a barge where the unit is controlled from the barge, is not normally manned, and is not utilized as an independent vessel.

(b) [Reserved]