N.C. Gen. Stat. § 143-215.92
Any vessel (other than one owned or operated by the State of North Carolina or its political subdivisions or the United States government) from which oil or other hazardous substances is discharged in violation of this Part or any rule prescribed pursuant thereto, shall be liable for the pecuniary penalty and costs of oil or other hazardous substances removal specified in this Part and such penalty and costs shall constitute a lien on such vessel; provided, however, that said lien shall not attach if a surety bond is posted with the Commission in an amount and with sureties acceptable to the Commission, or a cash deposit is made with the Commission in an amount acceptable to the Commission. Provided further, that such lien shall not have priority over any existing perfected lien or security interest. The Commission may adopt rules providing for such conditions, limitations, and requirements concerning the bond or deposit prescribed by this section as the Commission deems necessary.
N.C. Gen. Stat. § 143-215.92