Legal Operation

What is the law regarding dumping oil, fuel, or trash into the water?

Answer

It is illegal to discharge oil or throw plastic and other trash into the water

Discharging oil or oily waste is prohibited, and it is illegal to dump plastic or other trash into any water. Report significant oil or fuel spills, and carry your trash back to shore for disposal.

Source: U.S. Coast Guard, Boating Safety Division — "A Boater's Guide to the Federal Requirements for Recreational Boats" (rev. Nov. 8, 2023), “Pollution Regulations,” pp. 26–27 (33 CFR 151/155; MARPOL Annex V) — https://www.uscgboating.org/assets/1/AssetManager/Boaters-Guide-to-Federal-Requirements-for-Receational-Boats-20231108.pdf

Not the answer

  • Only glass may not be dumped
  • There are no rules on the water
  • It is allowed far from shore

Practice this

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