Disposing of an Unwanted Vessel
Like most possessions, boats often have a lifespan. At some point, boats are of such little monetary value or utility that they are not worth the cost of upkeep and storage.
Proper vessel disposal is a vital part of clean and responsible boating. Because there are environmental hazards associated with vessels, including oil, solvents, batteries, and other toxic wastes. It is important that all vessel owners properly dispose of their vessels at the appropriate time.
Never abandon or sink a vessel to dispose of it. Not only does it pose an environmental and navigational hazard on our state’s waterways but it is also illegal with fines up to $3000, plus the costs for removal and demolition.
There are several options for proper vessel disposal: the no-cost Surrendered Vessel Program, recycling/dismantling, or disposing at a local landfill site. Please see below for more information.
The Surrendered Vessel Program
The Surrendered Vessel Program, known as SAVE, is a no-cost alternative for recreational boat owners to surrender an unwanted boat. Surrendering a boat can be as simple as contacting a participating local agency and making arrangements to drop-off a boat. You must be the registered owner and sign a release of interest in the boat. Visit the Participating Agencies Contact List webpage to find an agency near you.
Recycling/Dismantling
Used boat part dealers, or salvagers, may accept your old vessel for its parts, which they resell. Some dealers may compensate the boat owner for the value of the useable parts minus the total cost of dismantling the vessel and recycling or disposing of hazardous wastes; however each dealer has its own specific requirements for the length and type of vessel they will accept. Search online for a local salvage company near you.
IMPORTANT: Salvagers are NOT SAVE Program participants. Visit the SAVE Participating Agencies Contact List webpage for local public agencies that may accept your vessel through the SAVE Program.
The California Division of Boating and Waterways and the California Coastal Commission, do not certify the business practices employed by the operators listed in the link above. Nor does it endorse any business or service listed herein.
Disposal
It is possible to take an unwanted vessel to a landfill site for disposal. Contact your local transfer station or landfill agency for information regarding acceptance, costs, and hazardous waste restrictions. Visit the CalRecycle webpage for a list of possible landfill locations near you. If you are required to remove hazardous materials first before disposing at a landfill location, visit the California Environmental Services for Boaters webpage for helpful information for proper disposal of these wastes.