Abandoned Vessel Laws

Regulations dictating how states handle derelict or sunken boats; owners can face fines or lose titles if they abandon a vessel in public waterways.

The legal documentation process of recording a boat with the appropriate state agency, akin to a ...

Laws established by individual states concerning boater education, vessel registration, equipment...

Official penalties for violating boating laws (e.g., fines, license suspension, vessel impoundmen...

Illegal alteration or removal of a boat’s Hull Identification Number, often indicating theft or f...

Floating or sunken trash, fishing gear, and other refuse that pose navigation hazards and environ...

Already covered as “Maritime Liens.” (No duplication—please refer to “Maritime Liens” entry).

The legal process of retrieving and repairing damaged or sunken vessels; salvage rights can be co...

(To appear in Part 4) Penalties or corrective measures taken by state agencies or the Coast Guard...

Legal claims against a vessel for unpaid debts (e.g., marina fees, repairs); may prevent transfer...