Orange County residents now have a unique opportunity to safely and responsibly dispose of inoperable or derelict vessels at no cost through a new initiative called the “Vessels Turn-In Program.” This collaborative effort between the Texas General Land Office (GLO), the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and Orange County aims to enhance local waterways’ cleanliness and safety.
The program will be held on April 5, 8, 10, and 12, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Orange County Collections Station, located at 11265 FM 1442, Orange, Texas 77632.
Program Details
The Vessels Turn-In Program provides a voluntary, free method for boat owners to dispose of unwanted, inoperable, or derelict vessels. The goal is to reduce abandoned boats in local waters, promoting a cleaner and safer environment for everyone.
Eligible boat owners must:
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Complete a Release of Interest and Ownership form on-site
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Ensure their vessel title is free of outstanding loan balances, liens, or taxes
“The Vessels Turn-In Program is an important step toward cleaning up our waterways and providing a safe, responsible way for boat owners to dispose of boats that are no longer seaworthy,” said John Gothia, County Judge for Orange County. “We are proud to partner with the Texas General Land Office and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to offer this valuable service to our residents.”
Important Guidelines
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Boats must be free of trash and debris before being dropped off.
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The program will accept vessels up to 26 feet in length. Larger boats may be accepted on a case-by-case basis.
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The GLO will ensure the safe removal of hazardous materials such as oil, fuel, and batteries.
Orange County will assist with landfill disposal, making this a streamlined and environmentally conscious process for all participants.
Contact Information
For more information, eligibility requirements, or to discuss larger vessels, please contact the GLO during business hours (8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday):
(409) 332-9325 or (409) 727-7481
This program is a fantastic opportunity for residents to responsibly dispose of unwanted vessels while supporting efforts to maintain the health of local waterways.
