Derelict Vessel Removal Program
Washington Department of Natural Resources’ (DNR) Derelict Vessel Removal Program (DVRP) is the first comprehensive mechanism in the state for addressing the problem of derelict or abandoned vessels in Washington's waters. The program provides funding and expertise to assist public agencies in the removal and disposal of vessels across the state.
Below are the program guidelines, and 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 disperses revenues generated from vessel registrations by reimbursing authorized public entities up to 90% of the cost of removing and disposing of a derelict or abandoned vessel. The Balance of the Fund can be found here.
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 Washington Department of Natural Resources (DNR) will request proposals for the removal and/or disposal of vessels determined to be derelict and/or abandoned pursuant to RCW 79.100. Currently there are no requests but new request proposals will be posted here.