As commercial and recreational uses of the Florida waterway system continue to expand with population growth, new coastal development, and a healthy marine industry, the potential for conflicts among boaters, natural resources, and different user groups will also increase. Faced
To assist with the understanding of Florida’s complex vessel management system, we scoured the statutes and regulations for terms that define the types of vessels using Florida waters and then classified these into the broader categories we thought they best
Florida navigates a complex and rapidly evolving legal landscape when it comes to managing on-the-water activities. With 18.5% of the state covered by water, vast stretches of shallow and sensitive estuaries, and more than a million registered vessels, hundreds of
Florida’s boaters and waterways received considerable attention in the 2025 legislative session. The most significant of these is SB 1388, a wide-ranging bill that addresses vessel stops, safety and marine sanitation enforcement, vessel energy source regulation, and springs protection. Other
Cuando se navega en bote a lo largo de la costa de Florida, es esencial entender los límites de las aguas estatales, especialmente cuando se trata de normas relativas a la descarga de aguas residuales. En la mayor parte de
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
The Environmental Protection Agency recently approved a No-Discharge Zone (NDZ) for the Indian River Lagoon Vero Beach to Fort Pierce Aquatic Preserve; this is the fourth NDZ designation in the state and the first of the Florida Department of Environmental
When you think about boating, you imagine perfect days on the water with friends and family—soaking up the sun, casting a line, and enjoying the moment. But to keep those good times rolling, clean boating steps into the picturesque scene.
Curious about what happens during Florida Sea Grant’s pumpout site visits at marinas? In this informative video, we take you behind the scenes to explore the essential work our staff perform to ensure effective sewage management. Discover firsthand what our
Ever wondered what boats are discharging into the water at marinas? In this eye-opening video, we clarify the difference between a boat discharging sewage overboard versus its bilge pump turning on to pump water out.
Today on Marine Science Minute with Florida Sea Grant: World Ocean Day. Planet Earth is 71 percent water. Our bodies consist of 70 percent water. On World Ocean Day, we recognize and celebrate our connection to the water.
Today on Marine Science Minute with Florida Sea Grant: Find a Sewage Pumpout! A pumpout is used by boaters to properly dispose of sewage which helps keep our waterways clean and safe for people and wildlife.
Whether your boat has a head or not, your input is important. By participating in Florida Sea Grant’s boater survey, you’re helping to shape and direct sewage disposal resources. Whether it’s less wait times at pumpouts, more port-a-potty dump stations,
Boaters now have access to an interactive tool to locate more than 250 publicly available pumpouts, portable toilet dump stations, and mobile pumpout vessels throughout the state.
Choosing the right sewage management system for your boat depends on several factors, including if the law requires you to have a specific type of Marine Sanitation Device. When considering your options, familiarize yourself with the Laws and Regulations and
