Fort Lauderdale encourages boaters to follow best practices to help keep local waterways clean and safe

Fort Lauderdale, Florida – Fort Lauderdale’s waterways are a popular destination for boaters, but keeping these waters clean requires effort and awareness from everyone who enjoys them. The City of Fort Lauderdale is encouraging boaters to take active steps to prevent sewage and waste from entering local waterways, helping to protect the environment and maintain the city’s reputation as a premier boating destination.

One of the simplest ways boaters can reduce pollution is by properly using pumpout facilities and waste dump receptacles. Boaters are reminded not to discharge any sewage—even treated—while moored at a marina, and never to release untreated sewage into U.S. territorial waters. Following the proper instructions when using and maintaining a marine sanitation device is critical to protecting the ecosystem. Whenever possible, boaters are encouraged to use onshore restrooms and showers to minimize the risk of contaminating waterways.

The City of Fort Lauderdale operates four complimentary pumpout locations to make responsible waste disposal convenient for all boaters. Two self-service 24/7 locations are available at Cox’s Landing Boat Ramp at 1784 SE 15th Street and Smoker Park at 501 S. New River Drive. In addition, assisted service is offered daily from 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. at Marshall Point, 410 SW 4th Avenue, and Cooley’s Landing Marina, 450 SW 7th Avenue. More information about these facilities is available online at ftlcity.info/marinefacilities.

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Looking ahead, Fort Lauderdale plans to introduce an innovative on-demand sewage pumpout vessel starting in spring 2026. Funded through a Clean Vessel Act grant from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, this free service will allow boaters to have their waste holding tanks emptied directly by a City-operated vessel, making it even easier to prevent harmful discharges into waterways.

In addition to using proper facilities, boaters are encouraged to commit to responsible habits by taking the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s Clean Boater Pledge. The pledge encourages boaters to consistently use pumpout stations, support Florida Clean Marinas, Clean Boatyards, and Clean Marine Retailers, promote clean boating practices, and keep waterways free of trash. Proper fueling techniques and recycling whenever possible are also key components of this commitment. More details about the Clean Boater program are available at floridadep.gov/CleanBoater.

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By following these guidelines, boaters can play a crucial role in maintaining the health and beauty of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways. The combined efforts of individual boaters, marina operators, and City programs ensure that the waterways remain safe, clean, and enjoyable for everyone—residents, visitors, and wildlife alike. Whether using onshore facilities, participating in the Clean Boater program, or taking advantage of the upcoming pumpout vessel service, Fort Lauderdale boaters have multiple ways to make a positive environmental impact while enjoying time on the water.

Through awareness, convenience, and community commitment, Fort Lauderdale continues to lead efforts in clean boating practices, proving that small actions on the water can have a lasting effect on the health of the city’s marine ecosystem. By keeping waste out of the waterways and supporting clean boating initiatives, everyone can contribute to the long-term sustainability of this vibrant coastal city.