Fort Lauderdale launches new program to help boaters properly dispose of sewage and keep waterways clean

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Fort Lauderdale is taking a significant step toward cleaner waterways with the creation of a new Sewage Pumpout Vessel program designed to make it easier for boaters to properly dispose of their waste. Approved by the Mayor and City Commissioners on Tuesday, the initiative is funded through a grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection via the Clean Vessel Act, and represents a proactive effort to maintain the city’s waterways in a safe and sanitary condition.

The program will provide a free on-demand or by-appointment service, sending a dedicated vessel directly to other boats to empty their waste holding tanks. By offering a convenient and accessible option, city officials hope to reduce the number of boaters discharging sewage directly into Fort Lauderdale’s waters — an issue that can lead to unsanitary conditions and environmental damage.

“Pumping out sewage can be a dirty and difficult task and calling a service to do it for you can be expensive,” said City Manager Rickelle Williams. “We’re hoping that by making it easier and more convenient for boaters to empty their waste holding tanks, it will reduce the number of people discharging directly into the waterways leading to unsanitary conditions.”

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The new Sewage Pumpout Vessel program is being hailed as a game changer for both the boating community and the environment. The city’s Chief Waterways Officer, Marco Aguilera, emphasized the program’s simplicity and effectiveness, noting that the service eliminates barriers for proper waste disposal.

“This is a huge asset as we work to keep our waterways clean,” Aguilera said. “We are removing any excuse for someone not to remove their waste appropriately. It’s free. It’s easy. You don’t even need to be there when the service is completed.”

The program is slated to launch in the spring of 2026, with residents and boaters able to schedule appointments or request the service through the FixItFTL app or by visiting the City’s website at fortlauderdale.gov. The city plans to use the program as a foundation for ongoing waterway management, ensuring both recreational and commercial vessels have a safe, reliable option for sewage disposal.

City officials hope that by reducing improper sewage discharge, the program will have a lasting impact on the health of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways, benefiting marine life, residents, and visitors alike. Beyond environmental protection, the initiative also underscores the city’s commitment to supporting its boating community with accessible, practical services that promote public responsibility and sustainability.

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The Sewage Pumpout Vessel program is part of a broader push by Fort Lauderdale to invest in water quality and environmental stewardship, aligning with regional and state goals to protect Florida’s waterways. By combining innovative technology, city resources, and grant funding, officials are confident that the program will become a model for other coastal cities seeking to tackle similar challenges.

For boaters, the message is clear: disposing of waste responsibly just got easier, cheaper, and safer. With the city removing obstacles and providing free service, Fort Lauderdale is paving the way for cleaner waters and a healthier ecosystem for generations to come.