If you are not a member, then its a penalty. Its another "strongarm" technique to part me from my money to force me to join USS.
My point was in the late 90's some fleets(not Yacht club affiliated groups) were charging the $5 because "thats what we have alwasy done". It was on the NOR and entry form for so long that it just kept getting put on when no one really knew why.
How do I know? After parting with Hobie, we immediately dropped it from the SEACATS regatta fees, and others followed suit. When we were Div 9, I guess Hobie or the fleet got the money, no one is really sure now.