In Florida and Texas, Gulf state waters extend 9 nautical miles from shore, and it is illegal to discharge sewage within these waters.
When boating along the Florida coast, it’s essential to understand the boundaries of state waters—especially when it comes to rules surrounding sewage discharge. For most of the U.S., state waters typically extend 3 nautical miles from shore. However, if you’re navigating the Gulf of America off Florida or Texas, that boundary extends to 3 leagues which is roughly 9 nautical miles. So, why the boundary difference? And what does it mean for boaters?
A Look at the History
The 3 league (9 nautical mile) boundary for Florida’s Gulf waters has deep historical roots. Before Florida became a state, Spain claimed these waters; when Florida joined the Union in 1845, this boundary remained intact. The federal government later reaffirmed this claim in 1960 with a key court case tied to the Submerged Lands Act, which clarified that Florida’s jurisdiction extends 3 leagues (9 nautical miles) into the Gulf.
Similarly, Texas enjoys the same 9-nautical-mile boundary, thanks to its unique history. Before becoming a state, Texas was an independent republic after gaining independence from Mexico in 1836. As an independent republic its statues established a 3-league (9 nautical mile) boundary which the U.S. ratified when Texas was admitted to the Union in 1845.
Why This Matters for Boaters
These extended boundaries aren’t just a historical footnote—they have real implications for today’s boaters. As a boater, it’s important to remember that it’s illegal to discharge untreated sewage in state waters. In the Gulf of America, that means within 9 nautical miles of Florida and Texas shores.
Navigating the Rules
As a responsible boater, it’s crucial to know where state waters end, and federal waters begin. If you’re 9 nautical miles or less from the coasts of Florida or Texas in the Gulf, be sure to use a holding tank and pump-out facility for your boat’s sewage. On Florida’s Atlantic coast and in most other coastal U.S. states, this boundary is 3 nautical miles, so stay mindful of where you are and the specific regulations that apply.
By staying informed, you can help protect our waters and ensure that boating remains a fun and safe activity for everyone. In Florida, to find a pumpout that works download the Pumpout Nav app, on iOS and Android devices.
Funded through the Florida Department of Environmental Protection through a grant from US Fish and Wildlife Services.
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