Nassau Bay is pointing residents to a free state-run program that accepts old or inoperable boats for disposal, the city announced in an alert posted Oct. 12.

The Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP) is run by Harris County Precinct 2 in partnership with the Texas General Land Office (GLO) and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). The program is free.

The city's alert did not list specific event dates, times or a drop-off location. Residents should call Harris County Precinct 2 at (713) 274-2222 for details on when and where to bring a boat.

Nassau Bay's alert warned that leaving an inoperable vessel to deteriorate poses a threat to local waterways and wildlife. The VTIP program gives owners a way to clear their property while keeping hazardous materials out of the water.

How the program works

VTIP is an event-based program the GLO has run along the Texas coast since 2015. Owners bring derelict boats to a designated site during a multi-day drop-off window. The GLO handles removal of fuel, oil and batteries. TPWD verifies ownership and clears each vessel for disposal.

Harris County Precinct 2, led by Commissioner Adrian Garcia, partnered with the GLO on a similar VTIP event in Harris County in May 2023, according to a GLO press release. Requirements for that event included bringing boats free of waste, debris and trash. Owners had to show proof of ownership, sign a Release of Interest and Ownership, and hold a title with no outstanding loan balances, liens or taxes. Vessels up to 26 feet were accepted; larger boats could qualify with prior approval.

Those requirements applied to the 2023 event. Residents should confirm current rules with Precinct 2 before hauling a boat to any drop-off site.

Statewide track record

Removing an abandoned vessel from coastal waters can cost more than $1,500 per linear foot, according to the GLO's vessel operations page. Statewide, the GLO has coordinated 52 VTIP events, safely disposing of 1,996 boats totaling more than 32,634 linear feet. The agency estimates those removals represent $24.5 million in projected cost savings for state and local governments.

Residents interested in the free disposal program can reach Harris County Precinct 2 at (713) 274-2222.

Upcoming: Nassau Bay's Maritime Safety Committee meets at 4 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 21, at Nassau Bay City Hall, 1800 Space Park Dr.