Georgia’s Parliament has released a draft law aimed at strengthening maritime and inland waterway safety through amendments to the Code of Administrative Offenses. The proposed changes introduce stricter rules and higher fines for violations, reflecting what lawmakers describe as a growing need for accountability and safety in the country’s transport sectors.
The Finance and Budget Committee has already expressed full support for the legislative package which includes both short-term and long-term measures.
New penalties for tampering with navigational marks:
One of the provisions targets unauthorized interference with navigational marks, either floating or stationary, located at sea or on land. Damaging or even risking damage to these safety markers will now constitute an administrative offense.
- Individuals will face a 100 GEL fine for a first offense
- Repeat violations will be fined 500 GEL
This regulation will take effect on October 1, 2025.
Inland waterway rules to tighten from 2026:
A broader set of reforms targeting inland navigation will come into force on January 1, 2026. These include penalties for unregistered vessels, unsafe practices, and noncompliance with inspection and fire safety standards.
- Registration and marking violations
Operating a vessel that is either unregistered, improperly marked, or listed in the State Register of Inland Waters with suspended status will lead to:
- 500 GEL fine for individuals
- 1,000 GEL fine for legal entities
- Repeat offenders will face 1,000 GEL and 2,000 GEL fines respectively
- Breach of navigation rules
Similar penalties will apply to those who violate established navigation protocols.
- 500 GEL fine for individuals
- 1,000 GEL fine for legal entities
- Double fines for repeat violations
- Faulty technical inspections
Inspection bodies that unlawfully certify vessels, especially in cases where such certifications may cause harm to ships, cargo, the environment, or property, will be fined 5,000 GEL. - Fire Safety Noncompliance
Neglecting fire safety protocols aboard inland waterway vessels will also trigger sanctions:
- 500 GEL fine for individuals
- 1,000 GEL fine for legal entities
“These changes are not just about penalties, they are about creating a culture of responsibility in our maritime and inland transport sectors,” said a representative of the committee.
