July 9, 2025

Charleston Takes Action on Abandoned Boats Regulations

News Summary

Charleston has adopted new regulations to tackle the environmental and safety hazards caused by abandoned boats in its waterways. These updated rules aim to enhance safety and adhere to a new state law that empowers municipalities to remove derelict vessels more effectively. The city continues to face challenges in funding the removal and demolition of these boats, stressing collaboration between local agencies and community organizations for effective solutions.

Charleston has taken decisive action to combat environmental and safety hazards posed by abandoned boats in its waterways. On July 8, 2025, the Charleston Public Safety Committee voted unanimously to adopt revised regulations for derelict boats. These new regulations will repeal and replace existing ones to ensure compliance with a recently enacted state law aimed at addressing issues surrounding derelict and abandoned watercraft.

The updated regulations aim to enhance safety and reduce environmental risks by establishing clear rules for mooring and anchoring within city limits, as well as mandating proper titling of all watercraft and outboard motor vehicles. The proposed regulations will be submitted to the full Charleston City Council for final approval.

This initiative follows a recent collaboration among local agencies that successfully removed two abandoned boats from local waterways. These boats posed safety and environmental threats, leading to their demolition and disposal in a local landfill. Such operations highlight the ongoing commitment of Charleston’s city officials and agencies to address the pressing issue of abandoned vessels.

Abandoned and derelict boats have long been a concern in Charleston, particularly as storms and severe weather conditions can push vessels into marshes and waterways. The recent amendment aligns with a new state law that empowers municipalities to tackle the problem more effectively. This law introduces clearer definitions of what constitutes a “derelict” or “abandoned” boat and establishes quicker timeframes for action.

Under the new state legislation, it has become a misdemeanor offense to abandon a boat or intentionally sink one. Boat owners will be provided with notification, allowing them a 21-day window to create a viable removal plan. If owners fail to execute their plans within approximately 30 days, authorities can remove the boats at their discretion.

The issue of derelict boats extends beyond mere aesthetics; they create significant navigational hazards, particularly if they are sunk or lack proper lighting. Furthermore, there are serious environmental concerns, including debris from damaged boats and potential leaks of oil or other hazardous materials into local waterways.

Despite these improvements and regulations, the funding needed for the removal and demolition of abandoned boats remains a significant challenge. City officials are currently exploring new funding sources to support these essential activities. Local nonprofit organizations, such as Wounded Nature Working Veterans, are collaborating with the city in removing boats and mitigating environmental damage caused by these derelict vessels.

Legislative efforts are also underway to address the broader implications of abandoned boats, including proposed bills that would introduce requirements for insurance and marine surveys for boat owners. The costs for privately contracting the removal and demolition of derelict boats can vary widely, ranging from $15,000 to $30,000 per vessel, creating a financial burden on the city and local taxpayers.

Local agencies, including the Charleston Police Department Harbor Patrol and Charleston County, have been instrumental in recent boat removal operations. A notable instance involved the boat “Rebellion,” owned by state Senator Matt Leber, which was destroyed after being adrift for nearly a year. This operation, along with future plans to clear out an estimated 7 to 8 abandoned boats by the end of the week, underscores the commitment of Charleston officials to ensuring the safety and cleanliness of their waterways.

Charleston’s proactive stance in adopting new regulations and actively engaging in boat removal initiatives highlights its commitment to safeguarding both public safety and environmental integrity. As the city continues to navigate the challenges posed by derelict boats, the collaboration between local agencies and community organizations will be critical in pursuing effective solutions.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Additional Resources

Author: STAFF HERE CHARLESTON

The CHARLESTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREcharleston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charleston, Charleston County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Spoleto Festival USA, Charleston Wine + Food Festival, and the MOJA Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce and the Charleston Museum, plus leading businesses in tourism and maritime industries that power the local economy such as South Carolina Ports Authority and the Charleston Visitor Center. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREaiken.com, HEREbeaufort.com, HEREchapin.com, HEREcharleston.com, HEREclinton.com, HEREcolumbia.com, HEREgeorgetown.com, HEREgreenwood.com, HEREgreenville.com, HEREhiltonhead.com, HEREirmo.com, HEREmyrtlebeach.com, HEREnewberry.com, HERErockhill.com, HEREspartanburg.com, HEREaustin.com, HEREcollegestation.com, HEREdallas.com, HEREhouston.com, and HEREsanantonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.