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Commissioner Buckingham Encourages Galveston County Residents to Participate in Free Vessel Turn-In Event

Contact Kimberly Hubbard
(512) 936-9582
media@glo.texas.gov

Today, Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham, M.D. is encouraging Galveston County residents to help keep the Texas coast clean by participating in the Galveston County Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP), which is made available by reservation only. After the boat owner makes a reservation, they will receive the details of when and where the drop-off will take place.

The Texas General Land Office (GLO) is partnering with Galveston County, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), to offer county residents a free event to dispose of unwanted and inoperable boats and vessels.

VTIP - Galveston County Registration Deadline January 13th

If you are a boat owner looking to participate, you must meet the following conditions:

  • You must register your vessel for drop-off with Galveston County no later than Monday, January 13, 2025.
  • No trailers will be accepted.
  • Vessels must be clear of all waste, debris, and trash before drop-off.
  • The VTIP agency must be provided with verification of vessel ownership and a Release of Interest and Ownership.
  • The title of each vessel must be free of any loan balances, liens, and/or taxes.
  • Approved vessels for disposal must be transported by owner on the day of the event.

To reserve your spot by the deadline, Monday, January 13, 2025, please call (409) 766-4509 or (409) 766-4512.

VTIP provides owners with a free and voluntary method to dispose of their vessels and boats. The GLO sponsors removing all fuel, oil, and batteries, and TPWD verifies ownership and clears the ship for disposal.

Removing abandoned vessels from coastal waters comes at a considerable expense—around $500 per foot. The GLO and its partners encourage communities to participate in VTIPs to avoid these steep costs and to keep their boats from becoming environmental or safety hazards.

Since it began in 2015, VTIP has hosted 41 events in various coastal communities. In total, 1,586 derelict and inoperable boats measuring 25,798 linear feet have been removed from coastal areas through these essential programs. During these events, 3,126.5 gallons of fuel/oil recovered and safely disposed.