Clean Boater Program

Established in 2001, the Clean Boater Program is an extension of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (DEP) Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Grant Program. It aims to engage and educate boaters on protecting Florida’s waterways by preserving native vegetation, wildlife and our natural environment. In collaboration with the Clean Marina Program, the Clean Boater Program provides guidance on adopting environmentally friendly practices, including proper trash disposal, using bilge socks and fueling collars, selecting the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Safer Choice Products and recycling. 

By adopting pollution prevention measures, Florida Clean Boaters play a vital role in keeping the state’s waterways clean for future generations. Boaters are encouraged to visit designated Clean Marinas throughout Florida, many of which provide pumpout services to support sustainable boating.

Take the Clean Boater Pledge 

By taking the Clean Boater Pledge and sharing the importance of protecting Florida’s environment, you are actively safeguarding the state’s waterways. All participants receive a welcome package that includes program decals and a CVA informational card.

For more information on the Clean Boater Program, please contact the Clean Vessel Act office at Clean.Vessel.Act@FloridaDEP.gov. 

Resources

Florida's Clean Boaters are encouraged to review these resources and practice environmentally friendly habits. 

• DEP’s Clean Boater Habits booklet provides information on how to properly inspect equipment, cleaning techniques for boats and trailers and educational materials on invasive aquatic plant species.
• Download the Pumpout Nav app to find pumpout locations across Florida.
• The U.S. Coast Guard provides vessel safety checks for free to ensure all watercraft are in full compliance with federal and state boating laws.
• The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Florida Tide Charts provide daily tide forecasts including high and low tide times, which are searchable by station name, ID or coordinates.
• The BoatUS Foundation’s Free Clean Boating Course demonstrates simple steps you can take to reduce the environmental impact of boating activities in Florida, including tips on waste disposal and information on invasive species.