Frequently Asked Questions

Texas Citizens Against Derelict Dumping (TCADD) is a non-profit organization that works to protect the environment and create a sustainable future. Their mission is to work hand in hand with local and state authorities to legally remove sunken and derelict vessels posing an environmental and safety risk to boaters and the general public.

The organization was formed in August of 2023 when a group of citizens had a concern with a derelict boat being abandoned at the Clear Lake Boat Ramp. They quickly found out that there was no funding available by the State of Texas who have jurisdiction on the waterways. In response, they organized and became a 501c3 Non-Profit to assist with the reduction and removal of the derelict boats.

There are many ways to get involved with Texas Citizens Against Derelict Dumping, such as volunteering, donating, or attending our events. Check out our home page for the date and location of the next meeting. Everyone is invited.

Volunteers are always welcomed.

You can sign the TXCADD petition:  Petition · Request the State Fund the Cleanup of Abandoned and Derelict Vessels in Texas - United States · Change.org 

You can make dollar donations of any amount. Note that no board member of TXCADD is paid a salary. All monies go to the removal of derelict/abandoned boats.

TXCADD has a very active private Facebook group,  Click here to join the group: Citizens Against Derelict Dumps (CADD) | Facebook 

There are several options available to you if you need to get rid of a boat in Clear Lake, Texas:

Texas Citizens Against Derelict Dumping (TCADD): This nonprofit organization works to remove derelict boats from Clear Lake. They have grown to more than 250 members and have become a 501c3 nonprofit. 

Texas Boat Disposal Service: This service can help you dispose of your old boat. You can contact them for more information.

General Land Office: The Texas General Land Office handles identifying, tagging, and disposing of derelict boats. You can reach out to them for guidance.

Before you proceed, it’s important to check with local authorities and understand the legal implications of disposing of a boat. It’s crucial to ensure that the disposal process is carried out in an environmentally friendly manner. If your boat is insured, you may also want to check with your insurance company as some policies may cover end of life disposal.

Harris County has the Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP), a free event for residents to dispose of inoperable vessels. The program is a partnership between the Texas General Land Office (GLO), Harris County Precinct Two, Harris County Commissioner Adrian Garcia, and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). 

During the five-day turn-in event, residents can bring their derelict or inoperable boats to the designated drop-off location to be verified by the GLO and TPWD for eligibility. Boats must be clear of all waste, debris, and trash. Verification of ownership along with a Release of Interest and Ownership must be provided to the VTIP agency, and the title must be free of any loan balances, liens, and/or taxes. Vessels exceeding the maximum length of 26-feet may be eligible for disposal with prior approval.

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

Residents should call (713) 274-2222 for more information on dates and location. The last drop-off location was the Clear Lake Park Community Center Parking Lot..

Galveston County also has a VTIP program. Contact them at (409) 766-4509 or (409) 766-4516 for dates and locations. 

Removing abandoned vessels from coastal waters comes at a considerable expense—around $200-300 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. See  Derelict Vessel Turn-In Event: Harris County (texas.gov) 

See   Texas Administrative Code (state.tx.us)