Monroe County Tightens Vessel Pump-Out Rules for Anchored Boats
Monroe County is enforcing a requirement that vessels anchored or moored in the Keys for more than 10 consecutive days must carry proof of a sewage pump-out within the past 30 days, a move aimed at protecting water quality and sensitive marine habitats. Local boaters are being advised to retain receipts, monthly stickers, or GPS-documented pump-out records to avoid penalties under county code.
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Monroe County officials have clarified enforcement of a local ordinance requiring proof of recent sewage pump-outs for vessels that anchor or moor in the Keys for longer than 10 consecutive days. Under the rule, any vessel equipped with a marine sanitation device must show evidence of a pump-out performed within the previous 30 days; acceptable proof includes a service receipt, a current monthly sticker, or documentation of a pump-out conducted outside the county’s No-Discharge Zone with accompanying GPS evidence.
The policy applies to both transient and long-staying vessels and is part of broader county efforts to reduce pollution in the Florida Keys’ fragile marine environment. Non-compliance is subject to penalties under county code, reinforcing the county’s focus on protecting local waters that support tourism, commercial and recreational fisheries, and sensitive ecosystems such as coral reefs and seagrass beds.
Boat owners and operators have several options to meet the requirement. Mobile pump-out services operate in the area and can provide receipts that constitute acceptable proof. Many marinas in Monroe County also offer pump-out facilities and will issue stickers or receipts. In addition, shore-based RV dump stations throughout the county provide alternative waste disposal options for those who temporarily dock ashore. When a pump-out is performed outside the No-Discharge Zone, the county requires GPS evidence to verify the location of service.
For local residents and business owners, the regulation carries practical implications. Liveaboards and seasonal boaters who remain in anchorages for extended periods should plan for regular pump-outs and retain documentation to avoid fines. Charter operations and tour operators that routinely stay in local waters will likewise need to integrate pump-out scheduling into their operating procedures. Marinas and service providers may also see increased demand for timely pump-outs and documentation services.
The regulation reflects longstanding community concerns about sewage discharges and their impact on water quality, fisheries, and the tourism economy. While the ordinance targets a narrow administrative requirement—proof of a pump-out within 30 days for vessels staying more than 10 consecutive days—it intersects with larger county priorities to maintain clean waterways and comply with state and federal environmental standards.
Boat owners seeking more information on acceptable proof and locations for pump-out services can consult Monroe County’s official guidance on vessel pump-out services. The county’s outreach emphasizes simple documentation and available service options to help residents and visitors meet the requirement and protect the Keys’ waterways.
