A server without a captain is a sinking ship. When the Server Owner goes AWOL (Absent Without Leave), moderation tools break, bot integrations expire, and the community stagnates. You cannot simply “vote” for a new leader; you must navigate Discord’s strict bureaucratic protocol to seize control.
This is your tactical guide to executing a Server Ownership Transfer Request to recover an abandoned community and restore the chain of command.
1. The Rules of Engagement: Eligibility Criteria
Discord Support will not hand over the keys to just anyone. To prevent hostile takeovers, you must meet ALL of the following criteria before submitting a ticket. If you miss one, your request will be auto-rejected.
- Server Population: The server must have 100+ Members. (Small friend servers do not qualify).
- Owner Status: The current Owner has been offline/inactive for at least 30 days.
- Your Status: You must have been active within the last 30 days.
- Your Clearance: You must currently hold Administrator or Moderator permissions within that server.
2. Intel Gathering: Obtaining the IDs
Support requires precise identification numbers, not just usernames. You must extract the Server ID and User IDs.
Step 1: Activate Developer Mode
You cannot see IDs without this toggle.
- Go to User Settings (Gear Icon) > Advanced.
- Toggle Developer Mode to ON.
Step 2: Extract the Data
- Server ID: Right-click the Server Icon on the sidebar > Copy Server ID.
- Owner/User ID: Right-click the user’s avatar (in chat or member list) > Copy User ID.
3. Execution: Submitting the Transfer Ticket
Once you have the intel, proceed to the Discord Support Portal.
The Submission Flow:
- Ticket Type: Select “Help & Support”.
- Email: Use the email address associated with your Discord account.
- Type of Question: Select “Server Related Request”.
- Specific Request: Select “Server Ownership Transfer Request”.
The Payload (Subject/Description):
You must provide the following data clearly:
- Target Server Name
- Target Server ID
- Current (Inactive) Owner’s Username & User ID
- New Owner’s (Your) Username & User ID
Pro Tip: Keep the description professional. State clearly: “The owner has been inactive for over 30 days, and as the active Administrator, I request ownership transfer to maintain community safety.”
4. The Exception: Verified & Partnered Servers
High-Value Target Warning: If the server has a Verified Checkmark or is part of the Partner Program, standard transfer requests do not apply.
- The Rule: Ownership transfers for these servers usually require the current owner to initiate the request.
- The Workaround: If the owner is incapacitated, you must escalate the ticket, but be prepared for a significantly longer vetting process.
5. Insight Matrix: Transfer Methods
| Method | Speed | Difficulty | Requirement |
| Voluntary Transfer | Instant | Low | Owner clicks “Transfer Ownership” in settings. |
| Support Request | 2-4 Weeks | High | Owner inactive >30 days + 100 Members. |
| Mutiny/Forking | Variable | Extreme | Creating a new server and moving members manually. |
6. FAQ Vortex: Operational Intelligence
Q: Can I request ownership if the server has fewer than 100 members?
A: No. Discord Support does not intervene for small servers. In this scenario, your only option is to create a new server and invite the active members to move.
Q: Will the old owner be notified?
A: Yes. Discord creates a paper trail. If the owner returns during the process or shortly after, they may contest the transfer.
Q: I am a regular member, can I request ownership?
A: Unlikely. Discord prioritizes users with existing moderation privileges (Admin/Mod roles) to ensure continuity of leadership.
Q: How long does the process take?
A: Response times vary, but expect a turnaround time of 1 to 3 weeks depending on the Trust & Safety queue volume.
Take the helm.
An inactive owner is a security risk. If you meet the criteria, gather your IDs and submit the request today. Your community needs a captain.