Boat

Renewal:

Boat registration renewals can be made online.

New and/or Transferred:

New and/or transferred vessels are registered in Scott County. Boat registrations expire on April 30th. (every three years.). Boat fees are based on the length of the boat. All boats over 17' in length (except canoes and kayaks) require a title. All boats with a lien must be titled.

Items needed when transferring a boat:

  • Bill of Sale * 
  • The most current registration signed
  • Manufacturer's Statement of Origin or Title
  • Completed application, see below

* Before a recreational vehicle or vessel can be registered a receipt, bill of sale or satisfactory evidence that the sales or use tax has been paid for the purchase of the vehicle. Sales are subject to 7% if purchased in Iowa and 6% use tax if purchased out of state.

Use the following application for duplicate titles, Liens, or transfers:​.

Attachments:

Use the following application for duplicate titles, Liens, or transfers.

Boat Fees:

All boat registrations expire April 30th every three years (2019, 2022, etc). The cost for a new boat registration will be prorated based on the year of registration. A $5.00 penalty is added to the fee for any expired registrations. Please bring current registration with you when renewing.

Type/Length 3 Year
No Motor/No Sail $17.65
Motor/Sail under 16 ft $28.15
Motor/Sail 16 to 26 ft $41.65
Motor/Sail 26 to 40 ft $80.65
Motor/Sail 40 $155.65
Jet Skis (PWC) $50.65
Documented Any Length $30.65
Transfer Fee for Boats $4.50
Duplicate Registration Fee for Boats $4.50

 

Sales Tax Information: 

Per section 45 of SF 413 amended Iowa Code section 423.3(39).

  • Sales of boats and other watercraft in Iowa are subject to the state sales tax of 6 percent plus local option taxes, if any. This applies to sales by Individuals, as well as, dealers.
  • Anyone purchasing a boat from an individual should obtain a receipt that shows the cost of the boat. The buyer will then pay the sales tax on the cost of the boat to the County Recorder.
  • If a trailer is purchased with the boat, the motor vehicle use tax is paid to the County Treasurer.