Boating Regulations & Your Responsibilities
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POLLUTION REGULATIONS
The discharge of any type of debris or waste into the water, including, but not
limited to, food, trash, garbage, oil, fuel, liquids and human waste, is highly
restricted and sometimes considered unlawful. Authorities highly recommend that
you NEVER discharge anything into the water.
Become familiar with the following pollution regulations. Pollution is a serious
matter, and law enforcement authorities highly enforce these regulations. As a
boat owner/operator, you are responsible for your actions affecting the
environment; therefore, you must fully understand and be aware of these
regulations. Contact the USCG, state and local authorities for additional
information.
MARPOL Treaty
The USCG enforces the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution
from ships, commonly referred to as the MARPOL Treaty (MARine POLlution).
This treaty prohibits the overboard dumping of all ship-generated plastics,
chemicals, garbage and oil. Contact the USCG for further information.
Refuse Act of 1899
The Refuse Act of 1899 prohibits throwing, discharging or depositing refuse
matter of any kind (including food, trash, garbage, oil and other liquid pollutants)
into U.S. waterways.
Federal Water Pollution Control Act
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the discharge of oil or
hazardous, potentially harmful substances into U.S. navigable waters. Boats at
least 26 feet (7.9 meters) in length must display a placard at least 5 x 8 inches
(127 x 203 mm), made of durable material, fixed in a conspicuous place in the
machinery spaces, or at the bilge pump control station, stating the following:
Discharge of Oil Prohibited
The Federal Water Pollution Control Act prohibits the
discharge of oil or oily waste upon or into any navigable
waters of the U.S. The prohibition includes any discharge
which causes a film or discoloration of the surface of the
water or causes a sludge or emulsion beneath the
surface of the water. Violators are subject to substantial
civil and/or criminal sanctions including fines and
imprisonment.
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