South Carolina § 50-21-220 - Causing vessels to sink or become abandoned; misdemeanors; fines and costs.
Full text of South Carolina South Carolina Code of Laws § 50-21-220 — Causing vessels to sink or become abandoned; misdemeanors; fines and costs., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 50-21-220. Causing vessels to sink or become abandoned; misdemeanors; fines and costs.
(A) It is unlawful for a person to cause or allow a vessel to become an abandoned vessel or a derelict vessel. A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than ten thousand dollars, imprisoned for not more than sixty days, or both. In addition, the person is liable for all costs arising from the removal and disposal of the vessel from the waters of the State, or public property adjacent thereto.
(B) It is unlawful for a person to intentionally or recklessly cause a vessel to sink on the waters of the State. A person who violates this subsection is guilty of a misdemeanor and, upon conviction, must be fined not more than ten thousand dollars, imprisoned for not more than sixty days, or both. In addition, the person is liable for all costs arising from the removal and disposal of the vessel from the waters of the State. This subsection does not apply to a person who sinks a vessel pursuant to the department's artificial reef program.
(C) Fines collected under this section must be used by the department for the removal and disposal of abandoned vessels, derelict vessels, and sunken vessels.
(D) The magistrate court is vested with jurisdiction for cases arising under this article.
HISTORY: 2025 Act No. 22 (S.367), SECTION 1, eff May 8, 2025.
Source: official South Carolina text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About South Carolina § 50-21-220
What does South Carolina Code of Laws § 50-21-220 cover?
Section 50-21-220 ("Causing vessels to sink or become abandoned; misdemeanors; fines and costs.") is part of the South Carolina Code of Laws, the codified statutory law of South Carolina. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite South Carolina § 50-21-220?
A common citation format is "South Carolina Code of Laws § 50-21-220" (South Carolina). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of South Carolina law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the South Carolina official source linked on this page or consult a licensed South Carolina attorney.
How does South Carolina § 50-21-220 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in South Carolina can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in South Carolina.