Boats
New and/or transferred vessels are registered with the Polk County Recorder. Registrations expired on April 30, 2022. A $5.00 Penalty fee will be added to the renewal transaction on July 1st, 2022. Boat fees are based on the length and type of the boat. Please call office at 515-286-3160 for registration fees. ($5.00 Penalty May Apply / Add $1.00 Handling Fee If Mailing in Payment)
Transfers need bill of sale, title if (applicable) and registration all signed by seller.
Boat Titles
Boats with a lien and boats that are 17' and over in length (except canoes and kayaks) are required to be titled.
The fee for boat titles are:
Application for Boat Certificate of Title
BILL OF SALE REQUIRED FOR ALL TRANSFERS
Effective July 1, 2005 per the Iowa Department of Revenue:
- Per section 45 of SF 413 amended Iowa Code section 423.3(39).
- Sales of all recreational vehicles are subject to the 6% State sales tax (plus any local option taxes). This applies to sales by individuals and 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 5% motor vehicle use tax is paid to the County Treasurer.
