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HomeHarbors and Navigation CodeDiv. 3Ch. 3Art. 3§ 550 Vessel And Marine Debris Definitions

§ 550 Vessel And Marine Debris Definitions

Harbors and Navigation Code·California
AI Summary·Official Text·Key Terms·Related Statutes·References
AI SummaryVerified

§ 550 Vessel And Marine Debris Definitions

This law tells us what counts as a "vessel" and what counts as "marine debris" for the rest of the rules.

Key Takeaways

  • •A “vessel” means any kind of watercraft or thing that can be used to travel on water.
  • •“Marine debris” is any vessel or piece of a vessel that is unseaworthy and can’t reasonably be fixed to be used again.
  • •Even wrecks, hulks, or old, dilapidated parts count as marine debris.

Example

A small fishing boat that broke apart in a lake and can’t be repaired.

The broken boat is called "marine debris" because it’s a part of a vessel that is no longer seaworthy and can’t be fixed to be used for travel on water.

AI-generated — May contain errors. Not legal advice. Always verify source.

Official Source
View on CA.gov

§ 550 Vessel And Marine Debris Definitions

For purposes of this article, the following terms have the following meanings: (a) A “vessel” includes every description of watercraft or other artificial contrivance used, or capable of being used, as a means of transportation by water. (b) “Marine debris” is a vessel or part of a vessel, including a derelict, wreck, hulk, or part of any ship or other watercraft or dilapidated vessel, that is unseaworthy and not reasonably fit or capable of being made fit to be used as a means of transportation by water. (Added by Stats. 2015, Ch. 645, Sec. 1. (AB 1323) Effective January 1, 2016.)

Last verified: January 11, 2026

Key Terms

vesselmarine debriswatercraftunseaworthy

Related Statutes

  • § 281 Vessel Collision Avoidance Rules
  • § 291 Vessel Rule Violation Liability
  • § 293 Vessel Pollution Liability
  • § 294 Offshore Oil Spill Liability
  • § 520 Sheriff'S Wrecked Property Notice

References

  • Official text at leginfo.legislature.ca.gov
  • California Legislature. Harbors and Navigation Code. Section 550.
View Official Source