The MSD is a unit of Sector LA/LB. The MSD area of responsibility stretches from Point Dume to the San Luis Obispo/Monterrey County Line including the Channel Islands.

The Primary Missions conducted by the MSD are as follows: Community Outreach, Environmental Protection, Inspections, Investigations, Port Security and Unit Housing.

Inspections

Coast Guard Marine Inspectors examine vessels carrying passengers or freight for hire to ensure they are in compliance with the applicable United States laws and regulations.

Environmental Response

The United States Coast Guard receives mandate and authorities from two main statutes, section 311 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) and the Comprehensive Environmental Reclamation, Compensation and liability Act (CERCLA).

The MSD Responds to Spill and Sinking within our AOR. To Report a Spill or a Sinking please contact the National Response Center at 1-800-424-8802.

Port Security

The United States Coast Guard Port Security authority is derived from Title 50 USC 191, the Espionage Act, the Magnuson Act, Executive Order 10173, Executive Order 12656 and the International Maritime and Port Security Act (33 U.S.C. 1226).

The MSD works to ensure the protection of vessels, harbors, anchorages, security zones, safety zones, waterfront facilities, and deepwater ports.