Disposal of Plastics and Other Garbage
Plastic refuse dumped in the water can kill fish and marine wildlife, and can foul
vessel propellers and cooling water intakes. Because of this, U.S. Coast Guard
regulations completely prohibit the dumping of plastic refuse or other garbage mixed
with plastic into the water anywhere, and restricts the dumping of other forms of
garbage within specified distances from shore.
USCG Dumping Placard:
ILLEGAL TO DUMP
INSIDE 3 MILES (and in U.S. Lakes, Rivers, Bays and Sounds):
• PLASTIC
• DUNNAGE, LINING AND PACKING
• MATERIALS THAT FLOAT
• ANY GARBAGE EXCEPT DISHWATER/
• GRAYWATER/FRESH FISH PARTS
3 TO 12 MILES:
• PLASTIC
• DUNNAGE, LINING AND PACKING
• MATERIALS THAT FLOAT
• ANY GARBAGE NOT GROUND TO
LESS THAN ONE SQUARE INCH
12 TO 25 MILES:
• PLASTIC
• DUNNAGE, LINING AND PACKING
• MATERIALS THAT FLOAT
OUTSIDE 25 MILES:
• PLASTIC
Section 3
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Owner’s/Operator’s Manual
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