Updates to an ABYC Standard and U.S. Coast Guard policy should make things easier for boatbuilders.
The boating industry has always been about fun, reliability and safety. That’s why the American Boat & Yacht Council is excited to announce the early release of ABYC H-24, Gasoline (Petrol) Fuel Systems.
While the ABYC typically publishes standards updates each July, this important release is coming ahead of schedule, allowing manufacturers to use new requirements immediately to enhance safety and compliance.
Alongside H-24, the U.S. Coast Guard has issued a new policy that significantly affects how boatbuilders can approach the installation of in-tank fuel pumps. This monumental shift streamlines the process, saving time and reducing the paperwork burden for manufacturers.
These updates affect fuel-system design, installation and compliance across the industry.
ABYC H-24 Update
The January 2025 update to ABYC H-24 brings several key additions that reflect the latest best practices for gasoline fuel systems. These changes not only address new elements, but they also help streamline the building process for manufacturers.
A significant addition to the updated H-24 is the inclusion of specific requirements for in-tank fuel pumps and their associated hose assemblies. These requirements address the fuel pump module, pressure regulator, hose connections, fire test and installation.
New specifications for quick-connect couplings have also been introduced. These couplings allow for secure tool-less connections between various parts of the fuel system. They allow for easier and faster installation when compared to the old hose-barb and hose-clamp approach.
The revision includes new definitions for certain terms within the fuel system, reducing any potential confusion in implementation. This is crucial for manufacturers and technicians to have the same understanding of the requirements when using the standard.
Another addition is the Tank Family Guideline appendix. This provides tank manufacturers with guidelines for categorizing fuel tanks based on design and configuration for testing.
Coast Guard Policy
One of the most noteworthy changes comes from the Coast Guard, which has issued a policy that aligns with the updated ABYC H-24 standard. Under this policy, in-tank fuel pump installation requirements are now considered equivalent to the Coast Guard’s federal regulations in 33 CFR 183.566.
This is a major step forward, as it means manufacturers can install fuel pumps farther than 12 inches from the engine without needing to go through the cumbersome process of requesting an exemption from the Coast Guard for each boat model.
Previously, 33 CFR 183.566 stated that each fuel pump had to be located on or near the engine—within 12 inches—unless it was being used to transfer fuel between tanks. To place a pump farther than this distance, manufacturers had to request a specific exemption from the Coast Guard for each boat model, with extra paperwork and compliance labeling requirements.
Now, boat manufacturers are free to install in-tank fuel pumps beyond the 12-inch limit as long as they meet the ABYC H-24. There’s no need to submit extra paperwork to the Coast Guard or include special labeling on the boat. Still, manufacturers should maintain a technical file documenting compliance.
Why These Changes Matter
The updates to the ABYC H-24 and the Coast Guard policies are more than just minor adjustments. They represent a shift toward aligning regulations with modern boating technology and practices.
This is a big deal for the boating industry. The ability to install in-tank fuel pumps without needing exemptions or additional labeling and reporting saves boat manufacturers time and effort. This clearly removes an administrative burden.
These changes also place a strong emphasis on safety. With specific requirements for fuel pumps, quick-connect couplings and distribution hoses, these updates help ensure that every component of the fuel system is up to par.
As technology continues to evolve, it’s crucial that industry standards evolve alongside it. These policy updates reflect a more flexible and forward-thinking approach to fuel system design, helping manufacturers utilize technological advances without unnecessary regulatory constraints.
These updates are a significant step forward for the boating industry, improving safety and compliance. With clear requirements and less administrative burden, manufacturers can more easily design safe, reliable fuel systems.
Brian Goodwin is director of standards and compliance at the American Boat & Yacht Council.
