HRS §200-72
Defacing vessel hull identification numbers
Read the official text at capitol.hawaii.gov ↗This section makes it illegal to damage, remove, or change the hull identification number permanently attached to a boat. It does not stop an owner from restoring the original number with the department’s permission, or a manufacturer from marking new hulls normally.
everyone
The statute, as written — Defacing, etc., vessel hull identification numbers
A copy, taken August 20, 2026. The version published by the Legislature is the one that governs, and it may have changed since. Check it before relying on anything here.
No person shall wilfully deface, destroy, remove, or alter the vessel hull identification number which is carved, burned, stamped, embossed, or otherwise permanently affixed to the hull of a vessel by the manufacturer, or by the owner in the case of restoration, for the purpose of identifying the hull. This section does not prohibit the restoration by an owner of an original number when the restoration is authorized by the department, nor prevent any manufacturer from placing in the ordinary course of business, numbers or marks upon new hulls.
LawTrove is not legal advice. The summary above is a computer-generated restatement — the authoritative text is the official version linked above.