Removal of obstructions to navigation
Wis. Stat. § 30.16
in effect(1) Watercraft and floats.
(a) Removal. The governing body of any municipality in this state may cause to be removed to a convenient and safe place any watercraft or float obstructing or interfering with the free navigation of any river, canal, water channel or slip within its harbor after having given reasonable notice to the master or owner or the agent of the master or owner, if known and a resident of this state, or to the person in charge thereof, to so remove such watercraft or float. The governing body of the municipality by ordinance or resolution may authorize any harbor master or other public officer over whom it has jurisdiction to remove the obstruction, and may prescribe the officer’s duties with respect thereto and the mode of carrying them into effect and may prescribe penalties for violation of such ordinance or resolution.
(b) Costs of removal. All costs, charges and expenses of such removal are a first lien on such watercraft or float, which lien may be enforced in the manner provided by law. The owner of any such watercraft or float is also personally liable for such costs, charges and expenses, to be recovered by the municipality by a personal action.
(2) Removal of obstructions to navigation; wharves and piers; alternative. As an alternative to the procedure specified under sub. (1), the governing body of a city, village or town may remove that portion of a wharf or pier which constitutes an unlawful obstruction to navigation as provided under s. 30.13 (5m).
Source: WI Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://docs.legis.wisconsin.gov/document/statutes/30.16Fetched: 10/7/2026