It's the Law: On the Water

Discharge of Sewage and Waste

• You are not required to have an installed toilet on your vessel. Many people use portable toilets and dispose of the waste at a public launch that has a pump-out station equipped for portable toilets.
• For long outings, equip your vessel with toilet facilities. See a list of pump-out and sanitation sites.
• If your vessel does have an installed toilet, federal law requires a U.S. Coast Guard—certified marine sanitation device (MSD) that is working properly.

Types of MSDs

• Types I and II MSDs treat waste with special chemicals to kill bacteria. If you have a Type I or II MSD, it must have a holding tank for untreated waste and a "Y" valve that must be secured in a closed position while operating in U.S. waters.
• Type III MSDs provide no treatment and are either holding tanks or portable toilets. Collected waste should be taken ashore and disposed of in a pump-out station or onshore toilet.

Discharge of Oil and Other Hazardous Substances

• It is illegal to discharge oil or hazardous substances.
• You are not allowed to dump oil into the bilge of the vessel without means for proper disposal.
• You must dispose of oil waste at a reception facility. On recreational vessels, a bucket or bailer is adequate for temporary storage.
• If on federal waters, and your vessel is 26 feet or longer, you must display a 5 x 8-inch placard near the bilge pump switch stating the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

Discharge of Trash

• It is illegal to dump refuse, garbage, or plastics into federally controlled or state waters. Store trash in a container on board, and place it in a proper receptacle on shore.
• Federal law requires you to display a 4 x 9-inch placard (sign) on any vessel 26 feet or longer. It must notify passengers and crew about discharge restrictions.