Marine Sewage Pumpout Facility Grants

The Maryland Marine Sewage Pumpout Facility Grant Program, administered by the Maryland Department of Natural Resources (DNR), is designed to improve water quality across the state by supporting marinas in the installation and maintenance of marine sewage pumpout facilities. Funded primarily through the federal Clean Vessel Act (CVA) and supported by the Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund, the program provides reimbursement grants of up to $20,000 for new pumpout system installations and up to $18,000 for system upgrades or replacements. This initiative plays a critical role in protecting Maryland’s waterways by enabling marinas to offer boaters environmentally responsible options for sewage disposal. Applicants must be public or private marinas operating in Maryland. To qualify, facilities must serve vessels over 22 feet in length and with more than 50 slips, as required under Maryland law. The grant supports the purchase, installation, maintenance, and operation of pumpout stations that can handle both onboard holding tank waste and portable toilet disposal. Reimbursable expenses include equipment, installation labor (with appropriate bids or documentation), and some permit fees. The program does not offer upfront funding, but allows partial reimbursements on equipment costs before final inspection. The grant application process is structured and requires multiple steps. Applicants must begin by completing an official application and a brief project proposal, which includes a description of the equipment and installation plan. Competitive installation bids are required unless using in-house labor, which must be pre-approved. Additional application materials include a site map, current IRS W-9, environmental review form, and permits from local authorities. The DNR conducts a risk assessment as part of its compliance with federal regulations and may require a Buy America certification. Once all components are approved, applicants receive a formal grant approval letter. Only then can they proceed with the purchase and installation of the pumpout system. Upon completion, applicants submit receipts, proof of payment, and an invoice to request reimbursement. Final reimbursement is issued after DNR conducts a site inspection to verify installation and operation. Grant recipients are expected to maintain the facility for at least 10 years and limit pumpout charges to $5 for the first 50 gallons. Grant funds are available on an annual cycle, with applications accepted throughout the year, subject to funding availability. The most recent federal award supporting this program was issued on July 1, 2025, under CFDA Number 15.616. Grants are approved on a rolling basis and are valid for one year from the date of approval. Applications that are not completed within this timeframe must be resubmitted. The program is managed by Donna Morrow, who can be reached at 410-260-8772 or pumpouts.dnr@maryland.gov for questions or assistance. Through this program, the Maryland DNR promotes responsible boating practices, protects sensitive aquatic environments, and ensures compliance with both federal and state environmental standards. The initiative ultimately contributes to healthier ecosystems and supports the sustainability of Maryland’s recreational and commercial water-based industries.

Applicants must not purchase equipment before approval. Incomplete submissions or failure to provide required permits will delay processing. Consult DNR staff for help with in-house labor documentation.