Transfer of ownership of a code city-owned vessel — Further requirements.
RCW 35A.21.324
in effect(1) Following the inspection required under RCW 35A.21.322 and prior to transferring ownership of a code city-owned vessel, a code city shall obtain the following from the transferee: (a) The purposes for which the transferee intends to use the vessel; and (b) Information demonstrating the prospective owner's intent to obtain legal moorage following the transfer, in the manner determined by the code city. (2)(a) The code city shall remove any containers or other materials that are not fixed to the vessel and contain hazardous substances, as defined under RCW 70A.305.020 . (b) However, the code city may transfer a vessel with: (i) Those containers or materials described under (a) of this subsection where the transferee demonstrates to the code city's satisfaction that the container's or material's presence is consistent with the anticipated use of the vessel; and (ii) A reasonable amount of fuel as determined by the code city, based on factors including the vessel's size, condition, and anticipated use of the vessel, including initial destination following transfer. (c) The code city may consult with the department of ecology in carrying out the requirements of this subsection. (3) Prior to sale, and unless the vessel has a title or valid marine document, the code city is required to apply for a certificate of title for the vessel under RCW 88.02.510 and register the vessel under RCW 88.02.550 .
(1) Following the inspection required under RCW 35A.21.322 and prior to transferring ownership of a code city-owned vessel, a code city shall obtain the following from the transferee:
(a) The purposes for which the transferee intends to use the vessel; and
(b) Information demonstrating the prospective owner's intent to obtain legal moorage following the transfer, in the manner determined by the code city.
(2)(a) The code city shall remove any containers or other materials that are not fixed to the vessel and contain hazardous substances, as defined under RCW 70A.305.020 .
(b) However, the code city may transfer a vessel with:
(i) Those containers or materials described under (a) of this subsection where the transferee demonstrates to the code city's satisfaction that the container's or material's presence is consistent with the anticipated use of the vessel; and
(ii) A reasonable amount of fuel as determined by the code city, based on factors including the vessel's size, condition, and anticipated use of the vessel, including initial destination following transfer.
(c) The code city may consult with the department of ecology in carrying out the requirements of this subsection.
(3) Prior to sale, and unless the vessel has a title or valid marine document, the code city is required to apply for a certificate of title for the vessel under RCW 88.02.510 and register the vessel under RCW 88.02.550 .
Source: WA Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://app.leg.wa.gov/RCW/default.aspx?cite=35A.21&full=trueFetched: 6/29/2026