§4711 Abandonment of Vessels Prohibited

Summary

Owners or operators must not leave a covered vessel abandoned on U.S. navigable waters. If a vessel looks abandoned, the Coast Guard will try to find the owner using the vessel registration number, hull identification number, or other available info. The Coast Guard will notify the owner that a penalty up to $500 may apply and that the vessel could be removed at the owner’s expense. If the owner is known, notice is sent by certified mail or a similar method. If the owner is unknown, notice is published in a local paper and on the Coast Guard website. The Coast Guard waits at least 45 days after giving notice before deciding the vessel is abandoned. If the Coast Guard finds a vessel abandoned, it may fine the owner up to $500, and the owner and the vessel itself can be held responsible for the penalty. No fine will be imposed if the abandonment was caused by major extenuating circumstances, such as long‑term medical incapacitation. A vessel will not be declared abandoned if it is in a federally or state approved mooring area, on private property with the owner’s permission, if the owner notifies the Coast Guard with location and proof that the vessel is allowed there, or if declaring it abandoned would not be in the public interest.