Derelict Vessel Removal Program
Washington Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Derelict Vessel Removal Program (DVRP) is the first mechanism to address the problem of derelict or abandoned vessels in Washington State's waters.
The program provides funding and expertise to assist public agencies in the removal and disposal of vessels across the state. Under state law, other ways to address abandoned vessels, including vessels on land, in marinas, and vessels adrift are described in WAC 308-93-275.
Below are the program guidelines, with forms and other materials in the appendices. For more details and to see how the program works, see links along the right of this page.
The DVRP Provides
- Reimbursement of up to 90% of the cost of removal and disposal.
- Remaining 10% of the cost can be in the form of “in-kind” services.
- Authorized public entities not able to undertake the removal of a derelict vessel may ask DNR to assume the lead.
- Priority for the use of funds is for vessels in danger of breaking up, sinking, or blocking a navigational channel, or vessels that present a risk to human health, safety or the environment.
How is the Program Funded?
DVRP funding comes from an additional $2.00 fee and a $1.00 fee (effective January 1, 2008 through January 1, 2014) placed on annual vessel registration fees and an additional $5.00 fee added to the cost of obtaining a foreign vessel identification document. The DVRP also can accept donations. If you would like to donate to this program please contact the program manager.
Program Eligibility
Only authorized public entities in Washington State (Department of Natural Resources, Department of Fish and Wildlife, Parks and Recreation Commission, Metropolitan Park Districts, Port Districts, and any city, town or county with ownership, management or jurisdiction over the aquatic lands where the vessel is located) may participate in this program.
Request for Proposals
Periodically DNR requests proposals for the removal and/or disposal of vessels determined to be derelict and/or abandoned pursuant to RCW 79.100. DNR posts those proposals on the state’s central contract advertisement database called WEBS. To look for current opportunities please see the public bid calendar and filter on “Natural Resources—Department of”. To sign up with WEBS (a free service) to receive notices of open projects, please see General Administration’s site “Doing Business with the State”.
Federal Civil Rights
In accordance with Federal law and U.S. Department of Agriculture policy, DNR does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, age or disability. However, should a person wish to file a discrimination complaint, please write to:
USDA, Director
Office of Civil Rights
Room 326-W, Whitten Building
1400 Independence Avenue SW
Washington D.C. 20250-9410
or call 202.720.5964 (voice and TDD). USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.