reglab/statecodes huggingface dataset:
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.42 - Departmental duties, powers, prohibitions.

30.42
Departmental duties, powers, prohibitions.
(1)
The department shall:
(a)
Manage the land in the riverway under its ownership, supervision, management or control in conformity with ss. 30.40 to 30.49.
(b)
Promote to the recreational users of the riverway an appreciation of the physical characteristics of the riverway and an appreciation of the local history, traditions and culture of the river valley.
(c)
Consult with the board and with municipalities located at least in part in or adjacent to the riverway on issues concerning the riverway.
(d)
1.
Promulgate rules that are applicable only to land in the riverway to regulate the cutting and harvesting of timber so that the effect of cutting or harvesting of timber on the scenic beauty and the natural value of the riverway is minimized. For land that is in the river edge zone or the bluff zone, the rules promulgated under this paragraph shall require that the cutting and harvesting of timber be solely by selection cutting and that the minimum basal area for the residual stand of timber be 60 square feet per acre. The rules promulgated under this paragraph do not apply to any cutting or harvesting of timber subject to regulation under s. 30.43 (3).
2.
For purposes of subd. 1., the department shall, by rule, define “basal area" and “selection cutting".
(e)
For each county named in s. 15.345 (8) (b), assign a department employee whose office is in the county to serve as a liaison representative on issues concerning the riverway.
(f)
Encourage an owner of land who on August 9, 1989, is subject to a contract under subch. I of ch. 77 or an order designating managed forest land under subch. VI of ch. 77 to voluntarily modify the contract or amend the order to require compliance with the rules regulating timber cutting and harvesting promulgated under par. (d).
(2)
The department may:
(a)
Acquire land in the riverway under s. 23.09 (2) (d) including easements and rights in land under s. 23.09 (10).
(b)
Enter into agreements with other agencies or persons to provide continuing and necessary maintenance, management, protection, husbandry and support for the land in the riverway under the ownership, supervision, management or control of the department.
(3)
Notwithstanding s. 227.11, the department may not promulgate rules interpreting or establishing procedures for ss. 30.44 to 30.46 except for the promulgation of rules under sub. (1) (d).
(4)
Notwithstanding s. 15.03, the department shall process and forward all personnel and biennial budget requests by the board without change except as requested or concurred in by the board.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1991 a. 76; 1995 a. 27, 211; 2015 a. 55.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.43 - Board duties.

30.43
Board duties.
The board shall:
(1)
Review applications for permits under s. 30.44 (1) to (5) and issue permits for activities that comply with their applicable performance standards.
(3)
Promulgate rules establishing procedures for the cutting or harvesting of timber or the cutting of woody vegetation in order to restore or maintain prairies or other native plant communities, to enhance wildlife habitat or to maintain confirmed archaeological sites. The rules shall require the person proposing the cutting or harvesting to prepare a management plan and obtain approval of the management plan from the department.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1991 a. 76; 1995 a. 211.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.435 - Board powers.

30.435
Board powers.
The board may:
(1)
Grant waivers under s. 30.44 (8) (c) and (f) and impose conditions under s. 30.44 (7).
(2)
Issue general permits under s. 30.44 (1) (f).
(2m)
Promulgate rules and otherwise act under s. 30.443.
(3)
Enter into contracts to carry out its duties and powers under ss. 30.40 to 30.49.
(4)
Employ staff outside the classified service in accordance with s. 16.505.
(5)
Inform or advise a municipality that has land located outside the riverway as to the impact the development of the land may have on the riverway.
(6)
Advise or make a recommendation to a city or village that has land adjacent to the riverway to encourage the city or village to adopt ordinances or other rules or regulations that preserve the scenic value of that land.
(7)
Report to the legislature on the effectiveness of ss. 30.44 to 30.49.
(8)
Advise the department on any conflict between the recreational use in the riverway and ss. 30.44 (1) to (5), 30.445 and 30.45 to 30.48.
(9)
Delegate to its staff the power to:
(a)
Issue, grant waivers to and impose conditions on permits, other than general permits.
(b)
Enter into contracts.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1991 a. 76; 1995 a. 211.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.443 - Erosion prevention and control.

30.443
Erosion prevention and control.
(1)
For activities under s. 30.44 (1) (b), the board may do any of the following:
(a)
Promulgate rules establishing standards for erosion prevention or control at sites in the riverway that are not subject to the standards established under s. 101.1206 (1), 101.653 (2), or 281.33 (3) (a) and that have a natural slope of 20 percent or less.
(b)
Promulgate rules establishing standards for erosion prevention or control that are in addition to standards established under ss. 101.1206 (1) and 101.653 (2) for sites in the riverway that are subject to those standards and that have a natural slope of 12 percent or more but 20 percent or less.
(2)
The board may impose any of the applicable standards established under sub. (1) (a) or (b) or ss. 101.1206 (1) or 101.653 (2) as a condition for receiving a permit under s. 30.44 (1), and the board may promulgate rules to enforce these standards in the riverway.
History:  1995 a. 211; 2009 a. 28; 2011 a. 32; 2013 a. 20.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.445 - Piers.

30.445
Piers.
(1)
No person may construct, relocate or modify a pier or reconstruct a destroyed pier in the riverway.
(2)
No person may have or maintain a pier in the riverway after November 30, 1990, unless the board has issued a permit for the pier under sub. (3) and the board has not revoked the permit under sub. (6).
(3)
Any person who owns a pier in the riverway that was in existence on October 31, 1989, may, before September 1, 1990, apply for a permit from the board to have and maintain the pier. Upon application the board shall issue the permit.
(3m)
(a)
Notwithstanding subs. (2), (3) and (7), the board shall issue a permit to have and maintain a pier in the riverway to an owner of a pier in the riverway that was in existence on October 31, 1989, if the person applies for the permit before September 1, 1992, and if at least a two-thirds majority of the board votes to approve the issuance of the permit.
(b)
If an owner fails to apply for a permit under par. (a) before September 1, 1992, or to remove the pier before that date, or if the board fails to approve the permit, the owner shall remove the pier before July 1, 1993.
(4)
A permit issued under sub. (3) or (3m) authorizes the person to whom the permit is issued to have and maintain the pier in the riverway on the condition that it be maintained in at least as good condition as it was in on the date of the application for the permit.
(5)
A permit issued under sub. (3) or (3m) authorizes repairs to the pier unless any of the following applies:
(a)
A municipal ordinance or other municipal regulation prohibits the repair.
(b)
The repaired pier will be larger in size or more visible from the river than it was immediately before the damage.
(6)
The board shall revoke any permit issued under sub. (3) or (3m) if the owner of the pier does not comply with sub. (4) or (5).
(7)
If a person who owns a pier in the riverway that was in existence on October 31, 1989, does not apply for a permit from the board or has not removed the pier before September 1, 1990, the person shall remove the pier by November 30, 1990.
(8)
If a permit issued under sub. (3) or (3m) has been revoked, the owner of the pier shall remove the pier within 15 days after the revocation, or if the board grants additional time for the removal, within that time.
(9)
Subsections (1) to (8) do not apply to a pier that is not located in the river and that is constructed after December 6, 1991.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1991 a. 76, 189, 315.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.452 - Prohibited activities in the river.

30.452
Prohibited activities in the river.
In the river, no person may:
(1)
Construct, relocate, replace or reconstruct a swimming raft.
(2)
Have or maintain a swimming raft after November 15, 1990.
History:  1991 a. 76, s. 42; Stats. 1991 s. 30.452.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.455 - Department of transportation activities.

30.455
Department of transportation activities.
(1)
Construction, reconstruction, design, maintenance, modification or repair activities, or nonmetallic mining activities in the riverway, that are carried out under the direction and supervision of the department of transportation are not subject to ss. 30.44 to 30.45. At the earliest practical time before the commencement of these activities, the department of transportation shall notify and consult with the department and the board on the location, nature and extent of the proposed work.
(2)
(a)
The exemption under sub. (1) does not apply unless the standard in par. (b) is met.
(b)
To the extent it is economically and technically feasible, the department of transportation shall minimize the visual impact of the activity and any resulting highway or structure.
(c)
The department of transportation, in consultation with the department, shall adopt standards to implement par. (b).
(3)
If the department determines that there is reasonable cause to believe that an activity being carried out under this section or a resulting highway or structure is not in compliance with the standard in sub. (2) (b), it shall notify the department of transportation. If the secretary and the secretary of transportation are unable to agree upon the methods or time schedules to be used to correct the alleged noncompliance, the secretary, notwithstanding the exemption provided in this section, may proceed with enforcement actions as the secretary considers appropriate.
(4)
Except as may be required under s. 1.11, no public notice or hearing is required in connection with any interdepartmental consultation and cooperation under this section.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1991 a. 76, 189; 1995 a. 211.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.46 - Agricultural use.

30.46
Agricultural use.
(1)
A person may develop or use land in the riverway for agricultural use that is not in agricultural use on October 31, 1989, if:
(a)
The development and use comply with the rules for the soil and water resource management program promulgated by the department of agriculture, trade and consumer protection under s. 92.14; and
(b)
The person otherwise complies with this subchapter in developing or using the land for agricultural use.
(2)
Notwithstanding sub. (1) (b), a person is not required to comply with rules for the soil and water resource management program promulgated under s. 92.14 by the department of agriculture, trade and consumer protection for land in the riverway and that is in agricultural use on October 31, 1989.
(3)
Notwithstanding sub. (1) (b), s. 30.44 (1) does not apply to the construction, modification, repair or reconstruction of a structure that is used exclusively for agricultural use on land in the riverway if the land is in agricultural use on October 31, 1989.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1991 a. 189.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.47 - Restrictions on recreational use.

30.47
Restrictions on recreational use.
(1)
No natural person may operate a boat on public waters in the riverway without having an adequately sized waterproof container in the boat in which to place refuse.
(2)
No person may leave refuse on land in the riverway owned, managed, supervised or controlled by the department or on public waters in the riverway.
(3)
(a)
Except as provided in par. (b), no person may have a glass container on land in the riverway owned, managed, supervised or controlled by the department or on islands or public waters in the riverway.
(b)
1.
Paragraph (a) does not apply to a natural person or his or her guest having a glass container on land in the riverway that the natural person owns or occupies as a tenant.
2.
Paragraph (a) does not apply to a natural person having a glass container on land in the riverway that is also in a state park.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1993 a. 73.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.48 - Applicability.

30.48
Applicability.
(1)
Sections 30.44 to 30.47 are in addition to and are not superseded by any law, rule, ordinance or other regulation governing an activity that occurs in the riverway.
(2)
Sections 30.44 to 30.47 do not apply to land that is located in a city or village on October 31, 1989, or to land located within 0.5 mile of the corporate limits of a city or village on October 31, 1989, that is annexed to the city or village after October 31, 1989.
History:  1989 a. 31; 1991 a. 189.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.49 - Enforcement.

30.49
Enforcement.
(1)
Forfeitures.
(a)
Any person who knowingly violates ss. 30.44 to 30.455 or 30.46 (1) shall forfeit not more than $1,000 for each violation.
(b)
Each day that a violation under par. (a) continues is a separate violation.
(c)
Any person who violates ss. 30.44 to 30.455 or 30.46 (1) shall forfeit not more than $1,000 for each violation.
(d)
Any person who intentionally violates s. 30.47 shall forfeit not more than $500.
(e)
Paragraph (b) does not apply to a violation under par. (c) or (d).
(f)
1.
For violations under par. (c), if the alleged violator has not previously received a warning notice for a violation of the same statutory provision, the law enforcement officer or warden shall issue the violator a warning notice and may not issue a citation.
2.
The warning notice under subd. 1. shall inform the alleged violator of the action the alleged violator is required to take to be in compliance with the applicable statutory provision. If the warning notice requires the alleged violator to remedy the effects of the violation, the alleged violator has 30 days to do so unless subd. 3. applies.
3.
The alleged violator may request in writing from the board an extension of time to remedy the effects of the violation. The board for good cause may grant an extension of time.
4.
If the alleged violator fails to comply with the warning notice, the law enforcement officer or warden may issue a citation. If the alleged violator complies with the warning notice, the law enforcement officer or warden may not issue a citation.
5.
The department shall record the issuances of warning notices for purposes of this paragraph.
(2)
Civil remedies.
(a)
The state, board or a municipality may file a civil action to enforce ss. 30.44 to 30.46.
(b)
If the plaintiff prevails in a civil action under par. (a), the court may grant:
1.
Injunctive relief under ch. 813.
2.
A declaratory judgment under s. 806.04.
3.
A decree for specific performance for which the court may supervise compliance.
(3)
Other rights, remedies. This section does not limit any other right or remedy provided by law.
History:  1989 a. 31.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.505 - Certificate of number system to conform to federal system.

30.505
Certificate of number system to conform to federal system.
The certificate of number system and the issuance of identification numbers employed by the department shall be in conformity with the overall system of identification numbering for boats established by the U.S. government. The department shall promulgate rules as are necessary to bring the state certificate of number system and the issuance of identification numbers into conformity with this federal system.
History:  1983 a. 27 s. 858; 1997 a. 198.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.525 - Voluntary contributions for nonmotorized boats.

30.525
Voluntary contributions for nonmotorized boats.
The department shall encourage owners of boats which are exempt from the certificate of number requirement under s. 30.51 (2) (a) 1. or 2. to contribute funds to be utilized for the development or enhancement of programs or services which provide benefits relating directly to nonmotorized boating activities. The department shall make reasonable efforts to publicize the nonmotorized boat voluntary contribution program and the purposes for which these revenues are to be utilized.
History:  1983 a. 27.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.53 - Certificate of origin; requirements; contents; guaranteed asset protection waivers.

30.53
Certificate of origin; requirements; contents; guaranteed asset protection waivers.
(1)
Requirements. No manufacturer, importer, dealer or other person may sell or otherwise dispose of a new boat to a dealer, to be used by the dealer for purposes of display and resale, without delivering to the dealer a manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin executed in accordance with this section and with those assignments on the certificate as are necessary to show title in the purchaser of the boat. No dealer may purchase or acquire a new boat without obtaining from the seller of the boat the manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin.
(2)
Contents. A manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin of a boat shall contain, in the form and together with the information the secretary requires, the following information:
(a)
A description of the boat, including, if applicable, the make, year, length, series or model, hull type and hull identification number of the boat and, for a boat with an inboard motor, the make of the engine and the engine serial number.
(b)
Certification of the date of transfer of the boat to a distributor, dealer or other transferee, and the name and address of the transferee.
(c)
Certification that this transaction is the first transfer of the new boat in ordinary trade and commerce.
(d)
The signature and address of a representative of the transferor.
(3)
Assignment. An assignment of a manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin shall be printed on the reverse side of the manufacturer's or importer's certificate of origin in the form prescribed by the secretary. The assignment form shall include the name and address of the transferee, a certification that the boat is new and a warranty that the title at the time of delivery is subject only to the liens and encumbrances that are set forth and described in full in the assignment. Nothing in this subsection requires the transferee to apply for a certificate of title under s. 30.533.
(4)
Nonapplicability. Subsection (3) does not apply to or affect:
(a)
A lien given by statute or rule of law to a supplier of services or materials for the boat.
(b)
A lien given by statute to the United States, this state or any political subdivision of this state.
(c)
A security interest in a boat created by a manufacturer or dealer who holds the boat for sale, which shall be governed by the applicable provisions of ch. 409.
(5)
Guaranteed asset protection waivers. Any dealer in boats or creditor may offer or sell guaranteed asset protection waivers in connection with the retail sale or lease of boats in this state if the dealer or creditor complies with the same requirements applicable with respect to motor vehicles under s. 218.0148. Any guaranteed asset protection waiver offered or sold under this subsection shall be treated the same as one offered or sold under s. 218.0148, including that the guaranteed asset protection waiver is not insurance.
History:  1987 a. 397; 2017 a. 161.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.531 - Certificate of title; requirements; exemptions.

30.531
Certificate of title; requirements; exemptions.
(1)
Certificate. The owner of a boat subject to registration or certificate of number requirements in this state, whether or not the boat is operated on the waters of this state, shall make application for certificate of title for the boat under the following circumstances:
(a)
If the owner has newly acquired the boat, he or she shall make application under s. 30.533.
(b)
If the owner applies for registration of a boat without holding a valid certificate of title previously issued to that owner by the department for the boat, he or she shall at the same time apply for a certificate of title.
(2)
Prerequisite to registration. Except as provided in sub. (3), an applicant's eligibility for a certificate of title is a prerequisite to registration of the boat. If the applicant for registration holds a valid certificate of title previously issued to the applicant by the department for the boat, that is prima facie evidence of ownership of the boat and the applicant need not apply for a new certificate of title when applying for registration.
(3)
Exemption.
(a)
Boats exempt from registration requirements. A boat is exempt from both the certificate of origin and certificate of title requirements of this chapter if it is exempt under s. 30.51 (2) (a) from the certificate of number and registration requirements or exempt under s. 30.51 (2) (b) from the certificate of number requirements of this chapter.
(b)
Boats under 16 feet. A boat is exempt from both the certificate of origin and certificate of title requirements of this chapter if it is less than 16 feet in length.
(bn)
Boats voluntarily registered. A boat issued a registration card pursuant to s. 30.52 (1) (b) 1m. is exempt from both the certificate of origin and certificate of title requirements of this chapter.
(c)
Boats purchased by nonresidents. A nonresident who purchases a boat in this state and who intends to title and register the boat in another state is not required to apply for a certificate of title under this chapter. A nonresident who purchases a boat in this state may apply for a certificate of title under this chapter.
History:  1987 a. 397; 1991 a. 39, 269; 1997 a. 198.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.537 - Certificate of title; issuance, records, fees.

30.537
Certificate of title; issuance, records, fees.
(1)
Issuance. The department shall file each application for certificate of title received by it and, when satisfied as to its genuineness and regularity and that the applicant is entitled to the issuance of a certificate of title, shall issue and deliver a certificate to the owner of the boat.
(2)
Records. The department shall file and retain for at least 5 years a record of all applications for certificate of title, including, if applicable, the manufacturer's certificate of origin, and all certificates of title issued by it:
(a)
According to title number.
(b)
According to hull identification number or engine serial number or both.
(c)
Alphabetically, according to name of owner.
(d)
In any other manner which the department determines to be desirable.
(3)
Search fee. The department shall conduct a title search upon the request of an applicant for a certificate of title and shall charge a fee of $5 for each search.
(4)
Title fees. The department shall require that:
(a)
The owner of the boat pay a $5 fee to file an application for the first certificate of title.
(b)
The owner of the boat pay a $5 fee for a certificate of title after a transfer.
(c)
The owner of the boat pay a $5 fee for a replacement certificate of title.
(d)
The owner of a boat pay a single $5 fee for the original notation and subsequent release of a security interest on a certificate of title.
(e)
A person who has perfected a security interest and who is notified under s. 30.571 pay a $2 fee for each notification.
(f)
An assignee of a security interest pay a $2 fee to be named a secured party on a certificate of title.
(g)
All fees remitted to or collected by the department under pars. (a), (c), and (d) be credited to the appropriation account under s. 20.370 (9) (hu).
(5)
Fee restriction. The department shall not charge any fee for services under this section except as specified in subs. (3) and (4).
History:  1987 a. 397; 1989 a. 128; 1991 a. 39; 2021 a. 58; 2021 a. 240 s. 30.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.539 - Contents of certificate of title.

30.539
Contents of certificate of title.
(1)
Information. Each certificate of title issued by the department shall contain:
(a)
The name and address of the owner.
(b)
The title number assigned to the boat.
(c)
A description of the boat, including, if applicable, the make, year, length, series or model, hull type and hull identification number of the boat and, for a boat with an inboard motor, the make of the engine and the engine serial number.
(d)
Any other data which the department deems pertinent and desirable.
(2)
Forms. The certificate of title shall contain forms for assignment and warranty of title by the owner, and for assignment and warranty of title by a dealer, or insurance company, and may contain forms for applying for a certificate of title by a transferee.
History:  1987 a. 397; 1997 a. 198.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.54 - Lost, stolen or mutilated certificates.

30.54
Lost, stolen or mutilated certificates.
(1)
If a certificate of title is lost, stolen, mutilated or destroyed or becomes illegible, the owner or legal representative of the owner named in the certificate, as shown by the records of the department, shall promptly make application for and may obtain a replacement upon furnishing information satisfactory to the department. The replacement certificate of title shall contain the legend “This is a replacement certificate and may be subject to the rights of a person under the original certificate".
(2)
If a person applies for a replacement certificate under sub. (1), conservation wardens or local law enforcement officials, after presenting appropriate credentials to the owner or legal representative of the owner named in the certificate of title, shall inspect the boat's engine serial number or hull identification number, for purposes of verification or enforcement.
(3)
The department shall not issue a new certificate of title to a transferee upon application made on a replacement until 15 days after receipt of the application.
(4)
A person recovering an original certificate of title for which a replacement has been issued shall promptly surrender the original certificate to the department.
History:  1987 a. 397.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.543 - Report of stolen or abandoned boats.

30.543
Report of stolen or abandoned boats.
Each sheriff and police department in the state shall immediately report to the department of justice each boat reported stolen or recovered within its jurisdiction and the department of justice shall subsequently report such information to the national crime information center.
History:  1987 a. 397.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.544 - Inspection of boats purchased out-of-state.

30.544
Inspection of boats purchased out-of-state.
For purposes of enforcement, conservation wardens or local law enforcement officials, after presenting appropriate credentials to the owner of a boat which was purchased outside of this state and which is subject to the certificate of title requirements of this chapter, shall inspect the boat's engine serial number or hull identification number.
History:  1987 a. 397.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.547 - Alterations and falsifications prohibited.

30.547
Alterations and falsifications prohibited.
(1)
No person may intentionally falsify an application for a certificate of title or a certificate of title issued under s. 30.537 (1) or 30.541 (4).
(2)
No person may intentionally falsify an application for a certificate of number or registration issued under s. 30.52.
(3)
No person may intentionally alter, remove or change any number or other character in an engine serial number.
(4)
No person may do any of the following:
(a)
Intentionally alter, remove or change any number or other character in a hull identification number.
(b)
Manufacture a hull identification number that the person knows to be false to be placed on a boat that is manufactured after November 1, 1972.
(c)
Place a hull identification number that the person knows to be false on a boat that is manufactured after November 1, 1972.
History:  1987 a. 397; 1997 a. 198; 2001 a. 16.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.549 - Transfer of ownership of boats with a certificate of title, certificate of number or registration.

30.549
Transfer of ownership of boats with a certificate of title, certificate of number or registration.
(1)
Duty of seller.
(a)
If the owner of a boat transfers all or any part of the owner's interest in the boat, other than by the creation of a security interest, the owner shall give the current certificate of number card or the registration card to the new owner and shall deliver the current certificate of title, if the boat is required to be titled, to the new owner as provided under s. 30.541 (1). If the owner does not possess a current certificate of number or registration or a current title, the owner shall provide to the department any documentation or information the department determines to be necessary to effect the transfer of ownership.
(b)
When the owner of a boat that is voluntarily registered pursuant to s. 30.52 (1) (b) 1m. transfers all or any part of the owner's interest in the boat, other than by the creation of a security interest, the owner shall send written notification of the transfer to the department within 15 days after the date of transfer.
(2)
Duty of purchaser.
(a)
Transfer of the ownership of a boat terminates the certificate of title and the certificate of number or registration for the boat except in the case of a transfer of a part interest which does not affect the transferor's right to operate the boat. The transferee shall make application for a new certificate of title and a new certificate of number or registration within 10 days after the date of purchase as prescribed by the department. Upon receipt of the application accompanied by the required fee, the department shall issue a new certificate of title and a new certificate of number card or registration card for the boat.
(b)
The purchaser of a boat that is voluntarily registered pursuant to s. 30.52 (1) (b) 1m. need not register the boat upon transfer of ownership.
(c)
Notwithstanding s. 30.52 (5) (a) 2. or (b) 2., the department may not issue new certification decals or new registration decals if the fee specified under s. 30.52 (3) (h) rather than the appropriate fee specified under s. 30.52 (3) (b) to (g) is paid. The department shall not award a new identification number to the boat unless compliance with federal numbering regulations requires otherwise.
History:  1979 c. 275; 1983 a. 27; 1987 a. 397 s. 5; Stats. 1987 s. 30.549; 1991 a. 39; 1997 a. 198; 2001 a. 16.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.55 - Notice of abandonment or destruction of boat or change of address.

30.55
Notice of abandonment or destruction of boat or change of address.
(1)
Destruction or abandonment. If a boat covered by a certificate of title and certificate of number or registration issued by this state is destroyed or abandoned, the owner shall notify the department of that fact within 15 days after the destruction or abandonment and shall at the same time return the certificate of title and certificate of number card or registration card to the department for cancellation.
(2)
Change of address. If a person, after applying for a certificate of title and certificate of number or registration or after receiving a certificate of title and certificate of number card or a registration card, moves from the address given in the application or the card, he or she, within 15 days after moving, shall notify the department in writing of both the old and new address and of any identification numbers awarded under this chapter.
History:  1973 c. 302; 1983 a. 27; 1987 a. 397.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.553 - Sharing boat title records.

30.553
Sharing boat title records.
(1)
At time intervals to be determined by the department, but at least quarterly, the department shall, upon request, provide boat manufacturers with the department's records under ss. 30.537 (2) and 30.541 (4) (c) for the primary purpose of validating the hull identification numbers and engine serial numbers provided by applicants for certificate of title.
(2)
Upon examination, if a boat manufacturer discovers a discrepancy between the information contained in the department's records and the manufacturer's records, the manufacturer shall notify the department of the discrepancy and the department shall investigate and determine which is the correct information.
History:  1987 a. 397.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.57 - Perfection of security interests.

30.57
Perfection of security interests.
(1)
Except as provided in sub. (2), a security interest in a boat of a type for which a certificate of title is required is not valid against creditors of the owner or subsequent transferees or secured parties of the boat unless perfected as provided in this section and ss. 30.572 and 30.573.
(2)
Sections 30.57 to 30.576 do not apply to any of the following:
(a)
A lien given by statute to a supplier of services or materials for a boat.
(b)
A lien given by statute to the United States, this state or a political subdivision of this state.
(c)
A security interest governed by ch. 409 that is created by a manufacturer or dealer who holds the boat for sale.
(3)
Except as provided in sub. (4), a security interest is perfected by the delivery to the department of the existing certificate of title, if any, an application for a certificate of title containing the name and address of the secured party, and the required fee. The security interest is perfected as of the later of the time of its delivery or the time of the attachment of the security interest.
(4)
If a secured party whose name and address is contained on the certificate of title for a boat acquires a new or additional security interest in the boat, the new or additional security interest is perfected at the time of its attachment under s. 409.203.
(5)
An unperfected security interest is subordinate to the rights of persons described in s. 409.317.
(6)
The rules of priority stated in s. 409.322, the other sections referred to in that section, and subch. III of ch. 409 shall, to the extent appropriate, apply to conflicting security interests in a boat of a type for which a certificate of title is required.
(7)
The rules stated in subch. VI of ch. 409 governing the rights and duties of secured parties and debtors and the requirements for, and effect of, disposition of a boat by a secured party, upon default shall, to the extent appropriate, govern the rights of secured parties and owners with respect to security interests in boats perfected under this section and ss. 30.572 and 30.573.
(8)
If a boat is subject to a security interest when brought into this state, s. 409.316 states the rules which determine the validity and perfection of the security interest in this state.
History:  1991 a. 39; 2001 a. 10.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.571 - Notification of person who has perfected security interest.

30.571
Notification of person who has perfected security interest.
If the department receives information from another state that a boat that is titled in this state is being titled in the other state and the information does not show that a perfected security interest, as shown by the records of the department, has been satisfied, the department shall notify the person who has perfected the security interest. The person shall pay the department the fee under s. 30.537 (4) (e) for each notification.
History:  1991 a. 39.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.572 - Duties on creation of security interest.

30.572
Duties on creation of security interest.
(1)
Subsections (2) to (4) apply if an owner creates a security interest in a boat of a type for which a certificate of title is required, unless the name and address of the secured party already appears on the certificate of title for the boat.
(2)
At the time that the security interest is created, the owner shall complete, in the space provided on the certificate of title or on a separate form prescribed by the department, an application to name the secured party on the certificate, showing the name and address of the secured party. The owner shall deliver the certificate, application and the fee required under s. 30.537 (4) (d) to the secured party.
(3)
Within 10 days after receipt, the secured party shall deliver the certificate, application and fee to the department.
(4)
Upon receipt of the certificate of title, application and fee, the department shall issue to the owner a new certificate containing the name and address of the new secured party. The department shall deliver to the new secured party and to the register of deeds for the county in which the debtor resides, memoranda, in a form prescribed by the department, of the notation of the security interest upon the certificate. The department shall deliver to the secured party and to the register of deeds additional memoranda of any assignment, termination or release of the security interest.
(5)
A register of deeds may maintain a file of all memoranda received from the department under sub. (4). A filing, however, is not required for a perfection, assignment or release of a security interest, which is effective upon compliance with ss. 30.57 (3), 30.573 and 30.574.
History:  1991 a. 39.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.573 - Assignment of security interest.

30.573
Assignment of security interest.
(1)
Except as otherwise provided in s. 409.308 (5), a secured party may assign, absolutely or otherwise, the secured party's security interest in a boat to a person other than the owner without affecting the interest of the owner or the validity of the security interest, but any person without notice of the assignment is protected in dealing with the secured party as the holder of the security interest and the secured party remains liable for any obligations as a secured party until the assignee is named as secured party on the certificate of title.
(2)
Subject to s. 409.308 (5), to perfect an assignment, the assignee may deliver to the department the certificate of title, the fee required under s. 30.537 (4) (f) and an assignment by the secured party named in the certificate in the form the department prescribes. Upon receipt, the department shall name the assignee as a secured party on the certificate and issue a new certificate.
History:  1991 a. 39; 2001 a. 10.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.574 - Release of security interest.

30.574
Release of security interest.
(1)
Within one month, or within 10 days following written demand by the debtor, after there is no outstanding obligation and no commitment to make advances, incur obligations or otherwise give value, secured by the security interest in a boat under any security agreement perfected under ss. 30.57, 30.572 and 30.573 between the owner and the secured party, the secured party shall execute and deliver to the owner a release of the security interest in the form and manner prescribed by the department and a notice to the owner stating in no less than 10-point boldface type the owner's obligation under sub. (2). If the secured party fails to execute and deliver the release and notice of obligation as required by this subsection, the secured party is liable to the owner for $25 and for any loss caused to the owner by the failure.
(2)
Within 5 days after receipt of the release and notice of obligation, the owner, other than a dealer holding the boat for resale, shall mail or deliver the certificate and release to the department. The department shall release the secured party's rights on the certificate and issue a new certificate.
History:  1991 a. 39.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.575 - Secured party's and owner's duties.

30.575
Secured party's and owner's duties.
(1)
A secured party named in a certificate of title shall, upon written request of the owner or of another secured party named on the certificate, disclose any pertinent information about the secured party's security agreement and the indebtedness secured by it.
(2)
An owner shall promptly deliver the certificate of title to any secured party who is named on it or who has a security interest in the boat described in it under any applicable prior law of this state, upon receipt of a notice from the secured party that the secured party's security interest is to be assigned, extended or perfected.
(3)
A secured party who fails to disclose information under sub. (1) shall be liable to the owner for any loss caused by the failure to disclose.
(4)
An owner who fails to deliver the certificate of title to a secured party requesting it under sub. (2) shall be liable to the secured party for any loss caused to the secured party by the failure to deliver.
History:  1991 a. 39.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.576 - Method of perfecting exclusive.

30.576
Method of perfecting exclusive.
(1)
Except as provided in sub. (2) and subject to s. 409.311 (4), the method provided in ss. 30.57 to 30.575 of perfecting and giving notice of security interests subject to those sections is exclusive. Security interests subject to ss. 30.57 to 30.575 are exempt from the provisions of law that otherwise require or relate to the filing of instruments creating or evidencing security interests.
(2)
Subsection (1) does not affect the validity of a security interest perfected before January 1, 1992.
History:  1991 a. 39; 2001 a. 10.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.577 - Suspension or revocation of certificate of title, certificate of number, or registration.

30.577
Suspension or revocation of certificate of title, certificate of number, or registration.
(1)
The department shall suspend or revoke a certificate of title, certificate of number, or registration for a boat if it finds any of the following:
(a)
The certificate of title, certificate of number, or registration was fraudulently procured, erroneously issued, or prohibited by law.
(b)
The boat has been scrapped, dismantled, or destroyed.
(c)
A transfer of title, certificate of number, or registration is set aside by a court by order or judgment.
(2)
Suspension or revocation of a certificate of title does not, in itself, affect the validity of a security interest noted on it.
(3)
When the department suspends or revokes a certificate of title, certificate of number, or registration, the owner or person in possession of the certificate or registration shall, within 5 days after receiving notice of the suspension or revocation, mail or deliver the certificate or registration to the department.
(4)
The department may seize and impound a certificate of title, certificate of number, or registration that is suspended or revoked.
History:  1991 a. 39; 2015 a. 89.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.578 - Grounds for refusing issuance of certificate of title.

30.578
Grounds for refusing issuance of certificate of title.
The department shall refuse issuance of a certificate of title if any required fee is not paid or if it has reasonable grounds to believe that any of the following exists:
(1)
The person alleged to be the owner of the boat is not the owner.
(2)
The application contains a false or fraudulent statement.
(3)
The applicant fails to furnish information or documents required by the department.
History:  1991 a. 269.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.60 - Classification of motorboats.

30.60
Classification of motorboats.
For the purposes of ss. 30.61 and 30.62, motorboats are divided on the basis of their length into 4 classes as follows:
(1)
Class A—those less than 16 feet.
(2)
Class 1—those 16 feet or over but less than 26 feet.
(3)
Class 2—those 26 feet or over but less than 40 feet.
(4)
Class 3—those 40 feet or over.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.625 - Rental of motorboats.

30.625
Rental of motorboats.
(1)
No person who is engaged in the rental or leasing of motorboats to the public may do any of the following:
(a)
Rent or lease a motorboat for operation by a person who will be operating a motorboat for the first time in each calendar year and who does not hold a valid certificate issued under s. 30.74 (1) unless the person engaged in the rental or leasing gives the person instruction on how to operate a motorboat in the manner established by the department under s. 30.74 (1) (am).
(b)
Rent or lease a personal watercraft to a person under 16 years of age.
(c)
Rent or lease a personal watercraft without providing the person who will be operating the personal watercraft with a personal flotation device that meets the requirements specified under s. 30.62 (3) (b).
(1m)
No person who is under 16 years of age may rent or lease a personal watercraft.
History:  1991 a. 257; 2005 a. 356 ss. 1b to 1e, 8; 2009 a. 180; 2011 a. 260 s. 81.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.63 - Sale and use of certain outboard motors restricted.

30.63
Sale and use of certain outboard motors restricted.
(1)
Sale. No person may sell any new outboard motor for use in the waters of this state unless such motor is equipped with a crankcase effectively sealed to prevent the drainage of raw fuel into the waters in which the motor is operated.
(2)
Use. Beginning January 1, 1990, no person may operate an outboard motor in the waters of this state unless such motor is equipped with a crankcase effectively sealed to prevent the drainage of raw fuel into the waters in which such motor is operated.
History:  1973 c. 125; 1989 a. 56.
2023 Wisconsin Statutes & Annotations › Chapter 30 - Navigable waters, harbors and navigation. › 30.635 - Motorboat prohibition.

30.635
Motorboat prohibition.
On lakes 50 acres or less having public access, motorboats may not be operated in excess of slow-no-wake speed, except when such lakes serve as thoroughfares between 2 or more navigable lakes. The department by rule may modify or waive the requirements of this section as to particular lakes, if it finds that public safety is not impaired by such modification or waiver.
History:  1973 c. 302; Stats. 1973 s. 30.63; 1973 c. 336; Stats. 1973 s. 30.635.