This section defines key terms used in the chapter, including “abandoned vessel,” “derelict vessel,” “law enforcement officer,” “vessel,” and “waters of this state.”
As used in this chapter, the following terms shall have the following meanings: (1) ABANDONED VESSEL. A vessel left unattended for four or more weeks after a hurricane, tropical storm, or other natural event resulting in a declaration of emergency by the Governor or, in the absence of a hurricane, tropical storm, or other natural event resulting in a declaration of emergency by the Governor, any of the following: a. A vessel left unattended that is moored, anchored, or otherwise in the waters of the state or on public property for a period of more than 10 days. b. A vessel not left on private property for repairs that is moored, anchored, or otherwise on private property for a period of more than 10 days without the consent of the owner or lessee of the property. c. A vessel left on private property for repairs that has not been reclaimed within 10 days from the latter of the date the repairs were completed or the agreed-upon redemption date. (2) AGENCY. The Alabama State Law Enforcement Agency. (3) DERELICT VESSEL. A vessel in the waters of this state that satisfies any of the following: a. Is sunk, in danger of sinking, or is otherwise taking on water without an effective means to dewater. b. Is obstructing a waterway. c. Is endangering life or property. d. Has broken loose or is in danger of breaking loose from its anchor. e. Is listing due to water intrusion. f. Does not have an effective means of propulsion for safe navigation or is otherwise not seaworthy. (4) LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICER. An officer of a county, municipality, or any state agency, department, or subdivision thereof, who is certified by the Alabama Peace Officers’ Standards and Training Commission. (5) VESSEL. Every description of watercraft, other than a seaplane, capable of being used as a means of transportation on the water. The term does not include a vessel built or constructed before the year 1918. (6) WATERS OF THIS STATE. Waters of this state as defined in Section 33-5-3.