It's the Law: On the Water

Discharge of Oil and Other Hazardous Substances

• It is illegal to discharge oil or hazardous substances into the water.
• 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.
• If boating on federally controlled waters and your vessel is 26 feet or longer, you must display a 5 x 8-inch placard near the bilge pump control station, stating the Federal Water Pollution Control Act.

Discharge of Sewage and Waste State and federal law prohibits vessels from discharging any untreated sewage into the waters of Louisiana. All recreational vessels with installed toilet facilities must have an operable marine sanitation device (MSD). Vessels 65 feet in length and under may use a Type I, II, or III MSD. Vessels over 65 feet must install a Type II or III MSD. It is illegal to discharge waste, oil, or trash into any federally controlled or Louisiana state waters. Types of MSDs Type III MSDs consist of holding tanks or portable toilets. Waste is discharged on shore into a pump-out facility. Types I and II MSDs treat waste with special chemicals to kill bacteria. Types I and II MSDs with "Y" valves that direct the waste overboard must be secured by placing a lock or non-reusable seal on the "Y” valve or by taking the handle off the "Y" valve.

Discharge of Trash

It is illegal to dump refuse, garbage, or plastics into any state or federally controlled waters. Many forms of litter can kill birds, fish, and marine mammals.

• You must store trash in a container while on board and place it in a proper receptacle after returning to shore.
• If boating on federally controlled waters and your vessel is 26 feet or longer, you must display a Garbage Disposal Placard that is at least 4 x 9 inches and notifies passengers and crew about discharge restrictions.