The pollution fines are issued by the Turkish Environment Code dated 1983, number 2872. The last modification has increased the fined about 10%.

Below are the categories of fine for particular types of pollution for real persons.

Category 1 – pollution from tankers such as petroleum products. 

  • Up to 1000 Gross Tons: 400 Turkish lira per ton.
  • Between 1000 and 5000 Gross Tons: 100 Turkish lira per ton.
  • Over 5000 Gross Tons: 10 Turkish lira per ton.

Category 2 – pollution by dirty ballast by tankers.

  • Up to 1000 Gross Tons: 72.88 Turkish lira per ton.
  • Between 1000 and 5000 Gross Tons: 14.54 Turkish lira per ton.
  • Over 5000 Gross Tons: 2.32 Turkish lira per ton

Category 3 – pollution from ships/vessels and other sea vehicles such as petroleum products, fuel oil and other oil waste.

Up to 1000 Gross Tons: 200 Turkish lira per ton.
Between 1000 and 5000 Gross Tons: 40 Turkish lira per ton.
Over 5000 Gross Tons: 10 Turkish lira per ton.

Category 4 – garbage and sewage discharged by ships/vessels and other sea vehicles.

  • Up to 1000 Gross Tons: 100 Turkish lira per ton.
  • Between 1000 and 5000 Gross Tons: 40 Turkish lira per ton.
  • Over 5000 Gross Tons: 10 Turkish lira per ton.

The Club informs that there is a 25% discount for those who will pay the fine within the appeal period.

In essence, the London P&I Club has issued recommendations on how to avoid the pollution fines in Turkey.

Also, the Shipowner's Club proposes that it is of a great importance to ensure the Oil, Ballast Water and Garbage Record Books are up to date and in order.

It is also recommended to video any bunkering, oil supply, sludge/bilge removal operations, at least during the connection and disconnection of the apparatus to rebut any allegations that may be made against the vessel.

When polluting occurs, the Club recommends members to:

  1. Collect and storing any relevant evidence;
  2. Notify the relevant authorities and cooperating with their investigations;
  3. Taking immediate steps to stop the source of pollution and to clean the pollutant; and
  4. Appointe a clean-up contractor.