The California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) is offering up to $2.5 million in grant funding to help local agencies enhance boating safety and address abandoned vessels across California’s waterways.
The funding is available through two competitive programs that support boating law enforcement efforts and the removal of derelict recreational vessels that can pose hazards to navigation and the environment. Applications for both programs are currently open and must be submitted by April 30, 2026, at 3:00 p.m. PDT.
According to DBW officials, the grants are intended to help local public agencies improve safety on waterways while protecting marine environments from the impacts of neglected or abandoned boats.
“Enhancing safety on California’s waterways and protecting our shared environment can create healthy and memorable outdoor experiences for experienced and new recreational boaters,” said Ramona Fernandez. “Thank you to the boating law enforcement community for their efforts in keeping California’s waterways safe and enjoyable for boaters.”
The largest portion of the funding will be distributed through the Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment (BSEE) Grant Program, which offers up to $1.5 million for local government agencies statewide. These grants help agencies purchase equipment used for recreational boating safety patrols and enforcement operations.
Eligible purchases include patrol boats, replacement engines, personal watercraft, search-and-rescue gear, and other specialized patrol equipment. The funding is designed to supplement existing resources used by local boating law enforcement agencies rather than fully fund entire patrol programs. The BSEE grants are supported through the U.S. Coast Guard’s Recreational Boating Safety Program.
The second program, the Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange (SAVE) Grant Program, makes up to $1 million available to help local agencies address abandoned or unwanted recreational vessels. The funding allows agencies to accept surrendered boats and remove derelict vessels that may be left in coastal or inland navigable waterways.
Abandoned boats can create significant problems for harbors and waterways by obstructing navigation, leaking pollutants, or becoming safety hazards. The SAVE program helps local governments cover the costs associated with removing and properly disposing of these vessels. Funding for the program comes from California’s Abandoned Watercraft Abatement Fund.
Both grant programs have proven popular among local agencies. In 2025, DBW awarded 20 BSEE grants totaling more than $1.23 million and 26 SAVE grants totaling approximately $1.04 million.
To help agencies prepare competitive applications, DBW is offering virtual workshops that provide guidance on the application process and program requirements.
A workshop for the BSEE program is scheduled for March 24, 2026, from 10:00 to 10:45 a.m., while the SAVE program workshop will take place later that day from 1:00 to 1:45 p.m. The sessions will be held online and recorded for those who cannot attend the live presentations.
Grant applications must be submitted through DBW’s Online Grant Application System by the April 30 deadline. Once the review process is completed, DBW expects to announce the grant awards in August 2026.
More information about the grant programs, application requirements, and past recipients is available through the Division of Boating and Waterways website.
