- Division of Marine Fisheries
Under state law, DMF may sanction commercial and recreational fishing permits for violations of the state’s marine fishery laws and regulations subject to a due process adjudicatory proceeding. These adjudicatory proceedings are held before a magistrate. They may be initiated by the agency, the Environmental Police, or municipal officials (constables) authorized to enforce the marine fishery laws of the Commonwealth.
During the period of January 1–June 30, 2026, DMF initiated two administrative proceedings. The first matter dealt with repeated violations of the state’s lobster conservation regulations for Lobster Management Area 1. This matter was settled with the Respondent agreeing to transfer out of the commercial lobster fishery. The second matter is ongoing and deals with potential violations of DMF’s protected species regulations.
Lastly, an ongoing matter from 2025 was disposed of in early 2026. This matter dealt with the failure of a commercial lobster permit holder to comply with electronic vessel monitoring requirements and permitting rules and the abandoning of lobster gear. Following an administrative hearing, the Magistrate found in favor of DMF resulting in the revocation of the individual’s Offshore Lobster Permit and the conditional renewal of their Coastal Lobster Permit.
Visit our website to learn more about DMF’s adjudicatory law process.
