(a) No spiny lobster less than 3 and 1/4 inches in length measured in a straight line from the rear edge of the eye socket to the rear edge of the body shell, both points to be on the midline of the back, may be taken, possessed, purchased, or sold.

(b) Every person taking spiny lobster shall carry a fixed caliper measuring device and shall measure any lobster immediately on removal from the trap and if it is found to be undersize the spiny lobster shall be returned to the water immediately. A trap shall be serviced prior to any additional trap being brought aboard a vessel.

(c) All spiny lobsters (Panulirus interruptus) taken, possessed, transported or sold must be maintained in such a condition that their size can be determined as described in Section 121.5(a) of these regulations until prepared for immediate consumption or sold to the ultimate consumer except as provided for in subsection (d) below.

(d) Spiny lobsters may be split along the midline of the carapace by persons licensed pursuant to Fish and Game Code Section 8034 (Fish Processors License) or Section 8037 (Commercial Fish Business License) provided both halves of each lobster are kept together by banding or packaging until either displayed for purchase by the ultimate consumer or prepared for immediate consumption.