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State
Washington
Chapter 88.02 RCW Vessel registration (formerly watercraft registration)

Chapter 88.02 RCW
Vessel registration
(formerly watercraft registration)


Notes:
Boat trailer fee: RCW 46.16.670.
Leases: Chapter 62A.2A RCW.




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88.02.010
Definitions.
Unless the context clearly requires otherwise, the definitions in this section apply throughout this chapter.

(1) "Vessel" means every watercraft used or capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water, other than a seaplane.

(2) "Owner" means a person who has a lawful right to possession of a vessel by purchase, exchange, gift, lease, inheritance, or legal action whether or not the vessel is subject to a security interest.

(3) "Dealer" means a person, partnership, association, or corporation engaged in the business of selling vessels at wholesale or retail in this state.

(4) "Department" means the department of licensing.


[1983 c 7 § 14.]




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88.02.020
Registration and display of registration number and decal prerequisite to ownership or operation of vessel — Exceptions.
Except as provided in this chapter, no person may own or operate any vessel on the waters of this state unless the vessel has been registered and displays a registration number and a valid decal in accordance with this chapter, except that a vessel which has or is required to have a valid marine document as a vessel of the United States is only required to display a valid decal.


[1985 c 267 § 1; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 47; 1983 c 7 § 15.]

Notes: Construction -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.






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88.02.023
Vessel dealer display decals — Use.
Vessel dealer display decals shall only be used:

(1) To demonstrate vessels held for sale when operated by a prospective customer holding a dated demonstration permit, and shall be carried in the vessel at all times it is being operated by such individual;

(2) On vessels owned or consigned for sale that are in fact available for sale and being used only for vessel dealer business purposes by an officer of the corporation, a partner, a proprietor, or by a bona fide employee of the firm if a card so identifying any such individual is carried in the vessel at all times it is so operated.


[1987 c 149 § 4.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.






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88.02.025
Registration of vessels numbered under the federal boat safety act.
(1) A vessel numbered in this state under the federal boat safety act need not register under chapter 88.02 RCW until the earlier of: (a) One year from the date this state's vessel numbering system is approved under the federal boat safety act; or (b) the expiration date of the certificate of number issued for the vessel under the federal boat safety act. At the time of registration under chapter 88.02 RCW, the amount of excise tax due under chapter 82.49 RCW shall include amounts which would have been due under that chapter if the vessel had been registered at the time otherwise required under chapter 88.02 RCW.

(2) As used in this section, "federal boat safety act" means the federal boat safety act of 1971 (85 Stat. 213; 46 U.S.C. 1451 et seq.).


[1984 c 250 § 3.]




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88.02.028
Registration of rented vessels — Dealer's vessels — Dealer registration numbers not transferable.
(1) Rented vessels shall be registered separately under RCW 88.02.020 through 88.02.050.

(2) RCW 88.02.020 does not apply to any registered dealer's vessels held for sale.

(3) Dealer registration numbers are not transferable.


[1987 c 149 § 5.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.






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88.02.030
Exceptions from vessel registration — Use of excess document identification fee for boating safety programs — Rules.
Vessel registration is required under this chapter except for the following:

(1) Military or public vessels of the United States, except recreational-type public vessels;

(2) Vessels owned by a state or subdivision thereof, used principally for governmental purposes and clearly identifiable as such;

(3) Vessels either (a) registered or numbered under the laws of a country other than the United States; or (b) having a valid United States customs service cruising license issued pursuant to 19 C.F.R. Sec. 4.94. On or before the sixty-first day of use in the state, any vessel in the state under this subsection shall obtain an identification document from the department of licensing, its agents, or subagents indicating when the vessel first came into the state. At the time of any issuance of an identification document, a thirty dollar identification document fee shall be paid by the vessel owner to the department of licensing for the cost of providing the identification document by the department of licensing. Five dollars from each such transaction must be deposited in the derelict vessel removal account created in RCW 79.100.100. Any moneys remaining from the fee after the payment of costs and the deposit to the derelict vessel removal account shall be allocated to counties by the state treasurer for approved boating safety programs under RCW 88.02.045. The department of licensing shall adopt rules to implement its duties under this subsection, including issuing and displaying the identification document and collecting the thirty dollar fee;

(4) Vessels that have been issued a valid number under federal law or by an approved issuing authority of the state of principal operation. However, a vessel that is validly registered in another state but that is removed to this state for principal use is subject to registration under this chapter. The issuing authority for this state shall recognize the validity of the numbers previously issued for a period of sixty days after arrival in this state;

(5) Vessels owned by a nonresident if the vessel is located upon the waters of this state exclusively for repairs, alteration, or reconstruction, or any testing related to the repair, alteration, or reconstruction conducted in this state if an employee of the repair, alteration, or construction facility is on board the vessel during any testing. However, any vessel owned by a nonresident is located upon the waters of this state exclusively for repairs, alteration, reconstruction, or testing for a period longer than sixty days, that the nonresident shall file an affidavit with the department of revenue verifying the vessel is located upon the waters of this state for repair, alteration, reconstruction, or testing and shall continue to file such affidavit every sixty days thereafter, while the vessel is located upon the waters of this state exclusively for repairs, alteration, reconstruction, or testing;

(6) Vessels equipped with propulsion machinery of less than ten horsepower that:

(a) Are owned by the owner of a vessel for which a valid vessel number has been issued;

(b) Display the number of that numbered vessel followed by the suffix "1" in the manner prescribed by the department; and

(c) Are used as a tender for direct transportation between that vessel and the shore and for no other purpose;

(7) Vessels under sixteen feet in overall length which have no propulsion machinery of any type or which are not used on waters subject to the jurisdiction of the United States or on the high seas beyond the territorial seas for vessels owned in the United States and are powered by propulsion machinery of ten or less horsepower;

(8) Vessels with no propulsion machinery of any type for which the primary mode of propulsion is human power;

(9) Vessels primarily engaged in commerce which have or are required to have a valid marine document as a vessel of the United States. Commercial vessels which the department of revenue determines have the external appearance of vessels which would otherwise be required to register under this chapter, must display decals issued annually by the department of revenue that indicate the vessel's exempt status;

(10) Vessels primarily engaged in commerce which are owned by a resident of a country other than the United States; and

(11) On and after January 1, 1998, vessels owned by a nonresident individual brought into the state for his or her use or enjoyment while temporarily within the state for not more than six months in any continuous twelve-month period, unless the vessel is used in conducting a nontransitory business activity within the state. However, the vessel must have been issued a valid number under federal law or by an approved issuing authority of the state of principal operation. On or before the sixty-first day of use in the state, any vessel temporarily in the state under this subsection shall obtain an identification document from the department of licensing, its agents, or subagents indicating when the vessel first came into the state. An identification document shall be valid for a period of two months. At the time of any issuance of an identification document, a twenty-five dollar identification document fee shall be paid by the vessel owner to the department of licensing for the cost of providing the identification document by the department of licensing. Any moneys remaining from the fee after payment of costs shall be allocated to counties by the state treasurer for approved boating safety programs under RCW 88.02.045. The department of licensing shall adopt rules to implement its duties under this subsection, including issuing and displaying the identification document and collecting the twenty-five dollar fee.


[2002 c 286 § 12; 1998 c 198 § 1; 1997 c 83 § 1; 1991 c 339 § 30. Prior: 1989 c 393 § 13; 1989 c 102 § 1; 1985 c 452 § 1; 1984 c 250 § 2; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 44; 1983 c 7 § 16.]

Notes: Severability -- Effective date -- 2002 c 286: See RCW 79.100.900 and 79.100.901.

Effective date -- 1998 c 198: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, or safety, or support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and takes effect immediately [March 27, 1998]." [1998 c 198 § 2.]


Effective date -- 1985 c 452: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1985." [1985 c 452 § 2.]


Construction -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.


Commission to adopt rules: RCW 79A.60.595.

Partial exemption from ad valorem taxes of ships and vessels exempt from excise tax under RCW 88.02.030(9): RCW 84.36.080.






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88.02.035
Confidential vessel registration, law enforcement purposes.
(1) The department may issue confidential vessel registration for law enforcement purposes only to units of local government and to agencies of the federal government.

(2) The department shall limit confidential vessel registrations owned or operated by the state of Washington or by any officer or employee thereof, to confidential, investigative, or undercover work of state law enforcement agencies.

(3) The director may adopt rules governing applications for and the use of confidential vessel registrations by law enforcement and other public agencies.


[1991 c 339 § 32.]




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88.02.040
Issuance of registrations — Agents — Deposit of fees in general fund — Allocation for boating safety and education, law enforcement, and derelict vessel removal and disposal.
The department shall provide for the issuance of vessel registrations and may appoint agents for collecting fees and issuing registration numbers and decals. General fees for vessel registrations collected by the director shall be deposited in the general fund: PROVIDED, That any amount above one million one hundred thousand dollars per fiscal year shall be allocated to counties by the state treasurer for boating safety/education and law enforcement programs and the fee collected specifically for the removal and disposal of derelict vessels must be deposited in the derelict vessel removal account created in RCW 79.100.100. Eligibility for boating safety/education and law enforcement program allocations shall be contingent upon approval of the local boating safety program by the state parks and recreation commission. Fund allocation shall be based on the numbers of registered vessels by county of moorage. Each benefitting county shall be responsible for equitable distribution of such allocation to other jurisdictions with approved boating safety programs within said county. Any fees not allocated to counties due to the absence of an approved boating safety program, shall be allocated to the commission for awards to local governments to offset law enforcement and boating safety impacts of boaters recreating in jurisdictions other than where registered.


[2002 c 286 § 14; 1989 c 393 § 12; 1983 c 7 § 17.]

Notes: Severability -- Effective date -- 2002 c 286: See RCW 79.100.900 and 79.100.901.

Commission to adopt rules: RCW 79A.60.595.






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88.02.045
Allocation of funds under RCW 88.02.040 to counties — Deposit to account for boating safety programs.
Jurisdictions receiving funds under RCW 88.02.040 shall deposit such funds into an account dedicated solely for supporting the jurisdiction's boating safety programs. These funds shall not supplant existing local funds used for boating safety programs.


[1993 c 244 § 40.]

Notes: Intent -- 1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.






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88.02.050
Application — Registration fee and excise tax — Registration number and decal — Registration periods — Renewals — Marine oil refuse dump and holding tank information — Transfer of registrations. (Expires June 30, 2012.)
(1) Application for a vessel registration shall be made to the department or its authorized agent in the manner and upon forms prescribed by the department. The application shall state the name and address of each owner of the vessel and such other information as may be required by the department, shall be signed by at least one owner, and shall be accompanied by a vessel registration fee of ten dollars and fifty cents per year and the excise tax imposed under chapter 82.49 RCW.

(2) Five additional dollars must be collected annually from every vessel registration application. These moneys must be distributed in the following manner:

(a) Two dollars must be deposited into the derelict vessel removal account established in RCW 79.100.100. If the department of natural resources indicates that the balance of the derelict vessel removal account reaches one million dollars as of March 1st of any year, the collection of the two-dollar fee must be suspended for the following fiscal year.

(b) One dollar and fifty cents must be deposited in the aquatic invasive species prevention account created in RCW 77.12.879.

(c) One dollar must be deposited into the freshwater aquatic algae control account created in RCW 43.21A.667.

(d) Fifty cents must be deposited into the aquatic invasive species enforcement account created in RCW 43.43.400.

(3) Any fees required for licensing agents under RCW 46.01.140 shall be in addition to the ten dollar and fifty cent annual registration fee and the five-dollar fee created in subsection (2) of this section.

(4) Upon receipt of the application and the registration fee, the department shall assign a registration number and issue a decal for each vessel. The registration number and decal shall be issued and affixed to the vessel in a manner prescribed by the department consistent with the standard numbering system for vessels set forth in volume 33, part 174, of the code of federal regulations. A valid decal affixed as prescribed shall indicate compliance with the annual registration requirements of this chapter.

(5) The vessel registrations and decals are valid for a period of one year, except that the director of licensing may extend or diminish vessel registration periods, and the decals therefor, for the purpose of staggered renewal periods. For registration periods of more or less than one year, the department may collect prorated annual registration fees and excise taxes based upon the number of months in the registration period. Vessel registrations are renewable every year in a manner prescribed by the department upon payment of the vessel registration fee, excise tax, and the derelict vessel fee. Upon renewing a vessel registration, the department shall issue a new decal to be affixed as prescribed by the department.

(6) When the department issues either a notice to renew a vessel registration or a decal for a new or renewed vessel registration, it shall also provide information on the location of marine oil recycling tanks and sewage holding tank pumping stations. This information will be provided to the department by the state parks and recreation commission in a form ready for distribution. The form will be developed and prepared by the state parks and recreation commission with the cooperation of the department of ecology. The department, the state parks and recreation commission, and the department of ecology shall enter into a memorandum of agreement to implement this process.

(7) A person acquiring a vessel from a dealer or a vessel already validly registered under this chapter shall, within fifteen days of the acquisition or purchase of the vessel, apply to the department or its authorized agent for transfer of the vessel registration, and the application shall be accompanied by a transfer fee of one dollar.


[2005 c 464 § 2; 2002 c 286 § 13; 1993 c 244 § 38; 1989 c 17 § 1; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 45; 1983 c 7 § 18.]

Notes: Findings -- Intent--2005 c 464: "The legislature finds that aquatic invasive species and freshwater aquatic algae are causing economic, environmental, and public health problems that affect the citizens and aquatic resources of our state. Many highly destructive species, such as the zebra mussel, are currently not found in Washington's waters and efforts should be made to prevent the introduction or spread of these aquatic invasive species into our state waters. Preventing new introductions is significantly less expensive and causes far less ecological damage than trying to control new infestations.

The legislature also finds that freshwater algae, particularly blue-green algae, are also seriously degrading the water quality and recreational value of a number of our lakes. Blue-green algae can produce toxins that inhibit recreational uses and pose a threat to humans and pets.

It is therefore the intent of the legislature to clarify the roles of the different state agencies involved in these issues in order to address the threat of aquatic invasive species and the problem caused by aquatic freshwater algae, and to provide a dedicated fund source to prevent and control further impacts." [2005 c 464 § 1.]

Application -- 2005 c 464 § 2: "Section 2 of this act applies to vessel registration fees that are due or become due on or after August 1, 2005." [2005 c 464 § 6.]


Expiration date -- 2005 c 464 § 2: "Section 2 of this act expires June 30, 2012." [2005 c 464 § 7.]


Severability -- Effective date -- 2002 c 286: See RCW 79.100.900 and 79.100.901.


Application -- 1993 c 244 § 38: "Section 38 of this act [the 1993 amendments to RCW 88.02.050] applies to registrations expiring June 30, 1995, and thereafter." [1993 c 244 § 43.]


Intent -- 1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.


Construction -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.





RCW 88.02

Application — Registration fee and excise tax — Registration number and decal — Registration periods — Renewals — Marine oil refuse dump and holding tank information — Transfer of registrations. (Effective June 30, 2012.)
Application for a vessel registration shall be made to the department or its authorized agent in the manner and upon forms prescribed by the department. The application shall state the name and address of each owner of the vessel and such other information as may be required by the department, shall be signed by at least one owner, and shall be accompanied by a vessel registration fee of ten dollars and fifty cents per year and the excise tax imposed under chapter 82.49 RCW. In addition, two additional dollars must be collected annually from every vessel registration application. These moneys must be deposited into the derelict vessel removal account established in RCW 79.100.100. If the department of natural resources indicates that the balance of the derelict vessel removal account reaches one million dollars as of March 1st of any year, the collection of the two-dollar fee must be suspended for the following fiscal year. Any fees required for licensing agents under RCW 46.01.140 shall be in addition to the ten dollar and fifty cent annual registration fee and the two-dollar derelict vessel fee.

Upon receipt of the application and the registration fee, the department shall assign a registration number and issue a decal for each vessel. The registration number and decal shall be issued and affixed to the vessel in a manner prescribed by the department consistent with the standard numbering system for vessels set forth in volume 33, part 174, of the code of federal regulations. A valid decal affixed as prescribed shall indicate compliance with the annual registration requirements of this chapter.

The vessel registrations and decals are valid for a period of one year, except that the director of licensing may extend or diminish vessel registration periods, and the decals therefor, for the purpose of staggered renewal periods. For registration periods of more or less than one year, the department may collect prorated annual registration fees and excise taxes based upon the number of months in the registration period. Vessel registrations are renewable every year in a manner prescribed by the department upon payment of the vessel registration fee, excise tax, and the derelict vessel fee. Upon renewing a vessel registration, the department shall issue a new decal to be affixed as prescribed by the department.

When the department issues either a notice to renew a vessel registration or a decal for a new or renewed vessel registration, it shall also provide information on the location of marine oil recycling tanks and sewage holding tank pumping stations. This information will be provided to the department by the state parks and recreation commission in a form ready for distribution. The form will be developed and prepared by the state parks and recreation commission with the cooperation of the department of ecology. The department, the state parks and recreation commission, and the department of ecology shall enter into a memorandum of agreement to implement this process.

A person acquiring a vessel from a dealer or a vessel already validly registered under this chapter shall, within fifteen days of the acquisition or purchase of the vessel, apply to the department or its authorized agent for transfer of the vessel registration, and the application shall be accompanied by a transfer fee of one dollar.


[2002 c 286 § 13; 1993 c 244 § 38; 1989 c 17 § 1; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 45; 1983 c 7 § 18.]

Notes: Severability -- Effective date -- 2002 c 286: See RCW 79.100.900 and 79.100.901.

Application -- 1993 c 244 § 38: "Section 38 of this act [the 1993 amendments to RCW 88.02.050] applies to registrations expiring June 30, 1995, and thereafter." [1993 c 244 § 43.]


Intent -- 1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.


Construction -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.








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88.02.052
Voluntary donations in conjunction with registration — Maritime historic restoration and preservation.
In conjunction with the registration of vessels under this chapter, the department shall provide an opportunity for each person registering a vessel to make a voluntary donation to support the maritime historic restoration and preservation activities of the Grays Harbor Historical Seaport and the Steamer Virginia V Foundation. All voluntary donations collected under this section shall be deposited in the maritime historic restoration and preservation account created under RCW 88.02.053.


[1996 c 3 § 1.]




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88.02.053
Maritime historic restoration and preservation account.
(1) The maritime historic restoration and preservation account is created in the custody of the state treasurer. All receipts from the voluntary donations made simultaneously with the registration of vessels under chapter 88.02 RCW shall be deposited into this account. These deposits are not public funds and are not subject to allotment procedures under chapter 43.88 RCW.

(2) At the end of each fiscal year, the state treasurer shall pay from this account to the department of licensing an amount equal to the reasonable administrative expenses of that agency for that fiscal year for collecting the voluntary donations and transmitting them to the state treasurer and shall pay to the state treasurer an amount equal to the reasonable administrative expenses of that agency for that fiscal year for maintaining the account and disbursing funds from the account.

(3) At the end of each fiscal year, the state treasurer shall pay one-half of the balance of the funds in the account after payment of the administrative costs provided in subsection (2) of this section, to the Grays Harbor historical seaport or its corporate successor and the remainder to the Steamer Virginia V foundation or its corporate successor.

(4) If either the Grays Harbor historical seaport and its corporate successors or the Steamer Virginia V foundation and its corporate successors legally ceases to exist, the state treasurer shall, at the end of each fiscal year, pay the balance of the funds in the account to the remaining organization.

(5) If both the Grays Harbor historical seaport and its corporate successors and the Steamer Virginia V foundation and its corporate successors legally cease to exist, the department of licensing shall discontinue the collection of the voluntary donations in conjunction with the registration of vessels under RCW 88.02.052, and the balance of the funds in the account escheat to the state. If funds in the account escheat to the state, one-half of the fund balance shall be provided to the *office of archaeology and historic preservation and the remainder shall be deposited into the parks renewal and stewardship account.

(6) The secretary of state, the directors of the state historical societies, the director of the *office of archaeology and historic preservation within the department of community, trade, and economic development, and two members representing the recreational boating community appointed by the secretary of state, shall review the success of the voluntary donation program for maritime historic restoration and preservation established under RCW 88.02.052 and report their findings to the appropriate legislative committees by January 31, 1998. The findings must include the progress of the program and the potential to expand the voluntary funding to other historic vessels.


[1996 c 3 § 2.]

Notes: Reviser's note: *(1) Powers, duties, and functions of the office of archaeology and historic preservation were transferred to the department of archaeology and historic preservation pursuant to 2005 c 333 § 12.

(2) 1996 c 3 directed that this section be added to chapter 43.08 RCW. This section has been codified in chapter 88.02 RCW, which relates more directly to vessel registration receipts.






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88.02.055
Refund, collection of erroneous amounts — Penalty for false statement.
(1) Whenever any license fee paid under this chapter has been erroneously paid, in whole or in part, the person paying the fee, upon satisfactory proof to the director of licensing, is entitled to a refund of the amount erroneously paid.

(2) A license fee is refundable in one or more of the following circumstances: (a) If the vessel for which the renewal license was purchased was destroyed before the beginning date of the registration period for which the renewal fee was paid; (b) if the vessel for which the renewal license was purchased was permanently removed from the state before the beginning date of the registration period for which the renewal fee was paid; (c) if the vessel license was purchased after the owner has sold the vessel; (d) if the vessel is currently licensed in Washington and is subsequently licensed in another jurisdiction, in which case any full months of Washington fees between the date of license application in the other jurisdiction and the expiration of the Washington license are refundable; or (e) if the vessel for which the renewal license was purchased is sold before the beginning date of the registration period for which the renewal fee was paid, and the payor returns the new, unused, never affixed license renewal decal to the department before the beginning of the registration period for which the registration was purchased.

(3) Upon the refund being certified as correct to the state treasurer by the director and being claimed in the time required by law, the state treasurer shall mail or deliver the amount of each refund to the person entitled to the refund.

(4) A claim for refund shall not be allowed for erroneous payments unless the claim is filed with the director within three years after such payment was made.

(5) If due to error a person has been required to pay a license fee under this chapter and excise tax which amounts to an overpayment of ten dollars or more, the person is entitled to a refund of the entire amount of the overpayment, regardless of whether a refund of the overpayment has been requested. If due to error the department or its agents has failed to collect the full amount of the license fee and excise tax due, which underpayment is in the amount of ten dollars or more, the department shall charge and collect the additional amount as will constitute full payment of the tax and fees.

(6) Any person who makes a false statement under which he or she obtains a refund to which he or she is not entitled under this section is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.


[2003 c 53 § 413; 1997 c 22 § 2; 1996 c 31 § 2; 1989 c 68 § 5.]

Notes: Intent -- Effective date -- 2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.






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88.02.060
Registration of dealers — Surety bond — Fees.
(1) Each vessel dealer in this state shall register with the department in the manner and upon forms prescribed by the department, in accordance with rules adopted under chapter 34.05 RCW. After the completed vessel dealer application has been satisfactorily filed and the applicant is eligible as determined by the department's rules, the department shall, if no denial proceeding is in effect, issue the vessel dealer's registration on the basis of staggered annual expiration dates.

(2) Before issuing a vessel dealer's registration, the department shall require the applicant to file with the department a surety bond in the amount of five thousand dollars, running to the state of Washington, and executed by a surety company authorized to do business in the state of Washington. The bond shall be approved by the attorney general as to form and conditioned that the dealer shall conduct his business in conformity with the provisions of this chapter. Any vessel consignor or purchaser who has suffered any loss or damage by reason of any act or omission by a dealer that constitutes a violation of this chapter may institute an action for recovery against the dealer and the surety upon the bond. Successive recoveries against the bond shall be permitted, but the aggregate liability of the surety to all persons shall not exceed the amount of the bond. Upon exhaustion of the penalty of the bond or cancellation of the bond by the surety, the vessel dealer registration shall automatically be deemed canceled.

(3) Vessel dealers selling fifteen vessels or fewer per year having a retail value of no more than two thousand dollars each shall not be subject to the provisions of subsection (2).

(4) For the fiscal biennium from July 1, 1987, through June 30, 1989, the registration fee for dealers shall be fifty dollars per year for an original registration, and twenty-five dollars for any subsequent renewal. In addition, a fee of twenty-five dollars shall be collected for the first decal, fifteen dollars for each additional decal, and fifteen dollars for each vessel dealer display decal replacement. In ensuing biennia, the director shall establish the amount of such fees at a sufficient level to defray the costs of administering the vessel dealer registration program. All such fees shall be fixed by rule adopted by the director in accordance with the Administrative Procedure Act, chapter 34.05 RCW. All fees collected under this section shall be deposited with the state treasurer and credited to the general fund.


[1987 c 149 § 1; 1983 c 7 § 19.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1987 c 149: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect July 1, 1987." [1987 c 149 § 15.]






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88.02.070
Certificates of title.
(1) The department shall provide for the issuance of vessel certificates of title. Applications for certificates may be made through the agents appointed under RCW 88.02.040. The fee for a vessel certificate of title is five dollars. Fees required for licensing agents under RCW 46.01.140 are in addition to the vessel certificate of title fee. Fees for vessel certificates of title shall be deposited in the general fund. Security interests in vessels subject to the requirements of this chapter and attaching after July 1, 1983, shall be perfected only by indication upon the vessel's title certificate. The provisions of chapters 46.12 and 46.16 RCW relating to motor vehicle certificates of registration, titles, certificate issuance, ownership transfer, and perfection of security interests, and other provisions which may be applied to vessels subject to this chapter, may be so applied by rule of the department if they are not inconsistent with this chapter.

(2) Whenever a vessel is to be registered for the first time as required by this chapter, except for a vessel having a valid marine document as a vessel of the United States, application shall be made at the same time for a certificate of title. Any person who purchases or otherwise obtains majority ownership of any vessel subject to the provisions of this chapter, except for a vessel having a valid marine document as a vessel of the United States, shall within fifteen days thereof apply for a new certificate of title which shows the vessel's change of ownership.

(3) Security interests may be released or acted upon as provided by the law under which they arose or were perfected. No new security interest or renewal or extension of an existing security interest is affected except as provided under the terms of this chapter and RCW 46.12.095.

(4) Notice shall be given to the issuing authority by the owner indicated on the certificate of registration within fifteen days of the occurrence of any of the following: Any change of address of owner; destruction, loss, abandonment, theft, or recovery of the vessel; or loss or destruction of a valid certificate of registration on the vessel.

(5) Within five days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays, and state and federal holidays, the owner shall notify the department in writing, on the appropriate form, of the date of the sale or transfer, the name and address of the owner and of the transferee, and such description of the vessel, including the hull identification number, the vessel decal number, or both, as may be required by the department.


[1996 c 315 § 5; 1991 c 339 § 31; 1985 c 258 § 4; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 46.]

Notes: Effective dates -- 1996 c 315 §§ 1, 4, 5: See note following RCW 46.01.140.

Effective date -- 1985 c 258: "This act is necessary for the immediate preservation of the public peace, health, and safety, the support of the state government and its existing public institutions, and shall take effect June 30, 1985." [1985 c 258 § 13.]


Construction -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.







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88.02.075
Duplicate certificates — Replacement decals — Surrender of original certificate or decal.
(1) If a certificate of ownership, a certificate of registration, or a pair of decals is lost, stolen, mutilated, or destroyed or becomes illegible, the first priority secured party or, if none, the owner or legal representative of the owner named in the certificate, as shown by the records of the department, shall promptly apply for and may obtain a duplicate certificate or replacement decals upon payment of one dollar and twenty-five cents and furnishing information satisfactory to the department.

(a) An application for a duplicate certificate of title shall be accompanied by an affidavit of loss or destruction in a form approved by the department and signed by the first secured party or, if none, the owner or legal representative of the owner.

(b) An application for a duplicate certificate of registration or replacement decals shall be accompanied by an affidavit of loss or destruction in a form approved by the department and signed by the registered owner or legal representative of the owner.

(2) The duplicate certificate of ownership or registration shall contain the legend, "duplicate." It shall be mailed to the first priority secured party named in it or, if none, to the owner.

(3) A person recovering an original certificate of ownership, certificate of registration, or decal for which a duplicate or replacement has been issued shall promptly surrender the original to the department.


[1997 c 241 § 12; 1986 c 71 § 1.]




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88.02.078
Vessel dealer business address — Office — Identification of business.
(1) A vessel dealer shall have and maintain an office in which to conduct business at the business address of the dealer.

(2) The vessel dealer's place of business shall be identified by an exterior sign with the business name. In the absence of other identifiers that the business conducted is marine business, the sign must identify the nature of the business, such as marine sales, service, repair, or manufacturing.


[1987 c 149 § 2.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.






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88.02.090
Inspection of registration — Violation of chapter.
Any person charged with the enforcement of this chapter may request for inspection the certificate of registration from any vessel owner or operator to ascertain the legal and registered ownership of such vessel. Failure to provide such certificate for inspection upon the request of any person charged with enforcement of this chapter constitutes a violation of this chapter and subjects the person requested to produce such document to the penalties provided by RCW 88.02.110.


[1983 c 7 § 21.]




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88.02.100
Rule-making authority.
The department may adopt rules under chapter 34.05 RCW to implement this chapter.


[1983 c 7 § 20.]




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88.02.110
Penalties — Disposition of moneys collected — Enforcement authority.
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this chapter, a violation of this chapter and the rules adopted by the department pursuant to these statutes is a misdemeanor punishable only by a fine not to exceed one hundred dollars per vessel for the first violation. Subsequent violations in the same year are subject to the following fines:

(a) For the second violation, a fine of two hundred dollars per vessel;

(b) For the third and successive violations, a fine of four hundred dollars per vessel.

(2) After subtraction of court costs and administrative collection fees, moneys collected under this section shall be credited to the current expense fund of the arresting jurisdiction.

(3) All law enforcement officers shall have the authority to enforce this chapter, and the rules adopted by the department pursuant to these statutes within their respective jurisdictions: PROVIDED, That a city, town, or county may contract with a fire protection district for such enforcement and fire protection districts are authorized to engage in such activities.


[1993 c 244 § 4; 1987 c 149 § 13; 1984 c 183 § 2; 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3 § 50; 1983 c 7 § 22.]

Notes: Intent -- 1993 c 244: See note following RCW 79A.60.010.

Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.


Construction -- Severability -- Effective dates -- 1983 2nd ex.s. c 3: See notes following RCW 82.04.255.







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88.02.112
Registration certificate required — Penalty.
Any person engaging in vessel dealer activities without first obtaining a registration certificate is guilty of a gross misdemeanor.


[1987 c 149 § 3.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.






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88.02.115
Additional penalties for unauthorized or personal use of dealer display decals.
In addition to other penalties imposed by this chapter for unauthorized or personal use of vessel dealer display decals, the director may confiscate all display decals for such period as the director deems appropriate, and in addition, or in lieu of other sanctions, the director may impose a monetary penalty not exceeding twice the amount of excise tax that should have been paid to register each vessel properly. A monetary penalty assessment is in addition to any fees owing to register each vessel properly. Any monetary penalty imposed or vessel display decals confiscated shall be done in accordance with chapter 34.05 RCW. Any monetary penalty imposed by the director and the delinquent excise taxes collected shall be deposited in the general fund.


[1987 c 149 § 6.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.






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88.02.118
Evasive registration — Penalty.
It is a gross misdemeanor punishable as provided under chapter 9A.20 RCW for any person owning a vessel subject to taxation under chapter 82.49 RCW to register a vessel in another state to avoid Washington state vessel excise tax required under chapter 82.49 RCW or to obtain a vessel dealer's registration for the purpose of evading excise tax on vessels under chapter 82.49 RCW. For a second or subsequent offense, the person convicted is also subject to a fine equal to four times the amount of avoided taxes and fees, no part of which may be suspended or deferred. Excise taxes owed and fines assessed will be deposited in the manner provided under RCW 46.16.010(4).


[2003 c 53 § 414; 2000 c 229 § 6; 1999 c 277 § 10; 1996 c 184 § 4; 1993 c 238 § 4; 1987 c 149 § 7.]

Notes: Intent -- Effective date -- 2003 c 53: See notes following RCW 2.48.180.

Effective date -- 2000 c 229: See note following RCW 46.16.010.


Effective date -- 1996 c 184: See note following RCW 46.16.010.


Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.







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88.02.120
Title certificate system — Legislative intent — Authority for rules and procedures to establish system.
It is the intention of the legislature to establish a system of certificates of title for vessels and watercraft similar to that in existence for motor vehicles. It is the goal of this legislation that the title certificate become prima facie evidence of ownership of the vessel it describes so that persons may rely upon that certificate; and that security interest in vessels be perfected solely by notation of a secured party upon the title certificate. However, there are title certificates issued prior to June 30, 1985, which may not indicate security interests in the certificated vessel. The establishment of a more reliable system will require implementation over several years, as the existing security interests are either satisfied or their perfection is not continued. During this interim period of five years from June 30, 1985, two different classes, class A and class B, of title certificates will be in existence and issued by the department of licensing. The establishment and operation of the system for watercraft and vessels should be patterned upon the system established and operating for motor vehicles and the department of licensing is hereby authorized and directed to adopt the regulations and procedures necessary and desirable to establish such a similar system, excepting only as the same may be inconsistent with this chapter.


[1985 c 258 § 1.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1985 c 258: See note following RCW 88.02.070.






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88.02.125
Evidence of ownership by vessel dealers — Sales of consigned vessels — Assignment and warranty of certificates of ownership.
(1) Vessel dealers shall possess a certificate of ownership, a manufacturer's statement of origin, a carpenter's certificate, or a factory invoice or other evidence of ownership approved by the department for each vessel in the vessel dealer's inventory unless the vessel for sale is consigned or subject to an inventory security agreement. Evidence of ownership shall be either in the name of the dealer or in the name of the dealer's immediate vendor properly assigned.

(2) A vessel dealer may display and sell consigned vessels or vessels subject to an inventory security agreement if there is a written and signed consignment agreement for each vessel or an inventory security agreement covering all inventory vessels. The consignment agreement shall include verification by the vessel dealer that evidence of ownership by the consignor exists and its location, the name and address of the registered owner, and the legal owner, if any. Vessels that are subject to an inventory security interest shall be supported with evidence of ownership that is in the dealer's possession or the possession of the inventory security party. Upon payment of the debt secured for that vessel, the secured party shall deliver the ownership document, appropriately released, to the dealer. It is the vessel dealer's responsibility to ensure that ownership documents are available for ownership transfer upon the sale of the vessel.

(3) Following the retail sale of any vessel, the dealer shall promptly make application and execute the assignment and warranty of the certificate of ownership. Such assignment shall show any secured party holding a security interest created at the time of sale. The dealer shall deliver the certificate of ownership and application for registration to the department.


[1994 c 262 § 27; 1987 c 149 § 8.]

Notes: Effective date -- 1987 c 149: See note following RCW 88.02.060.






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88.02.130
Class A title certificates.
After June 30, 1985, a class A certificate shall be issued in the following circumstances:

(1) Upon application for a certificate of title to a new vessel never before titled and sold by an in-state or out-of-state dealer or manufacturer. The application must be accompanied by a manufacturer's statement of origin or other document or documents certifying the first conveyance of said vessel after its manufacture. The manufacturer's statement of origin or other similar document or documents shall reflect themodel year, make, and hull identification number of the vessel. (continued)