(a) To incidentally take marine mammals pursuant to these regulations, the U.S. citizen (as defined by §216.103) conducting the activity identified in §217.80(a) must apply for and obtain either an initial Letter of Authorization in accordance with §217.87 or a renewal under §217.88.

(b) The application must be submitted to NMFS at least 30 days before the activity is scheduled to begin.

(c) Application for a Letter of Authorization and for renewals of Letters of Authorization must include the following:

(1) Name of the U.S. citizen requesting the authorization;

(2) A description of the activity, the dates of the activity, and the specific location of the activity; and

(3) Plans to monitor the behavior and effects of the activity on marine mammals.

(d) A copy of the Letter of Authorization must be in the possession of the persons conducting activities that may involve incidental takings of marine mammals.

(e) [Reserved]