Township of Ocean, NJ Article VI Removal of Abandoned Boats

[Adopted by Ord. No. 1990-19 (§ 5-20 of the 1972 Ocean Codified Ordinances)]

§ 150-19 Nuisances.

Any boat or watercraft which becomes a menace to navigation, is unseaworthy, or sinks, or is otherwise abandoned within any waterway within the Township is deemed to be a nuisance.

§ 150-20 Abatement; removal of boat or watercraft; violation.

In the event that any boat or watercraft becomes a nuisance as defined in § 150-19, the owner or person in charge of such boat or watercraft shall abate and remove such nuisance within 72 hours from the time of notice by the Township. If the owner of such boat or watercraft fails to remove the same as directed within said time period, they shall be deemed to be in violation of the within section and issued a summons by the Police Department or Zoning Department of the Township.

§ 150-21 Township removal of boat or watercraft; costs to owner.

In the event that the owner or person in charge of the boat cannot be located after a reasonable inquiry, the Township may remove or destroy such boat or watercraft and the owner shall be responsible for payment of the reasonable costs thereof.

§ 150-22 Definitions.

As used in this article, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

ABANDONMENT OF A BOAT OR WATERCRAFT

A vessel which remains moored, grounded or otherwise attached or fastened to or upon any public land or waterway or any private property without consent of the property owner for a period of more than 10 days shall be prima facie evidence of such abandonment.

§ 150-23 Violations and penalties.

Any person who violates any one or more sections of this article shall be subject to a fine of not more than $500 for each separate offense and/or confinement in the Ocean County Jail for a period of not more than 90 days.