Chapter 4: The Legal Requirements of Boating
Vessel Sanitary Systems (ORC 1547.33)
It is illegal to discharge untreated waste, oil, or trash into
any federally
controlled or state waters and for very good reasons.
- Sewage carries disease and other pollutants that are harmful
to people, aquatic plants, and animals.
- Trash thrown into the water can injure swimmers and wildlife.
- It also can plug engine cooling water intakes. Pollution is
unsightly and diminishes enjoyment of the water.
On all Ohio waters except on Lake Erie, the Muskingum River,
and the Ohio River:
- No person shall launch, moor, dock, operate, or permit to
be operated any vessel with a sink, toilet, or sanitary system
capable of discharging urine, fecal matter, contents of a chemical
commode, kitchen wastes, laundry wastes, slop sink drainage,
or other household wastes into the waters in this state.
- Such a sink, toilet, or sanitary system shall be removed,
sealed, or made to drain into a tank or reservoir that can be
carried or pumped ashore for disposal in an approved sewage treatment
works.
On Lake Erie, the Muskingum River, and the Ohio River, see “Marine
Sanitation Device” in the Federal Regulations section for
vessel sanitary systems requirements.
Inland Navigation Rules (OAC 1501:47-4-03)
The operators of mechanically propelled vessels that are 12 meters
(39.4 feet) or more in length must carry on board and maintain
for ready reference a copy of the Inland Navigation Rules.
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