Boating Waste

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Boating is certainly popular in Florida with more than 37,000 registered boats, nearly 100 boatyards and marinas, and world class fresh and salt water activities available throughout the county. Safe, clean boating is a goal and responsibility of all boaters and that responsibility extends to the proper disposal of hazardous materials used in the operation and care of boats.
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On-Board Hazardous Materials

Old fuel, expired marine flares, lead acid batteries, used oil, fire extinguishers, and mercury float switches are the most common items in nearly all boats. Never put flares in the trash because they can start fires. Coast Guard regulations prohibit discharging flares except in an emergency. 

Boat Care and Maintenance


Caring for your boat often requires using a variety of powerful cleaning agents, repair substances, and coatings. All of these materials are accepted at the  SWA's Home Chemical and Recycling Centers.
Whole Boat Disposal
 Entire boats can be disposed in the landfill after all of the hazardous materials have been removed. Disposal rates are based on weight as published in the SWA Tipping Fee Rate Schedule.

Boat Disposal Procedures:

  • Boats are accepted only at the landfill.
  • All boats must be inspected for hazardous materials before being admitted to the North County Landfill for disposal. Fiberglass is not considered a hazardous material.
  • SWA Hazardous Waste staff will inspect boats at the Home Chemical and Recycling Center at 6161 North Jog Road in WPB Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Landfill Operations staff will perform inspections outside of these hours.
  • All hazardous materials, such as fuel, batteries, and flares, etc., must be removed by the owner or hauler prior to disposal. 
  • Built-in fuel tanks must be accessible for inspection. (SWA will not pump fuel from tanks)
  • The SWA will accept the removed hazardous materials at the Home Chemical and Recycling Centers.
  • For liability reasons, the SWA will not unload boats from trailers or any vehicle. The customer will be allowed to tie off to a piece of equipment and pull out from under the boat if necessary. Customer must bring their own supplies to tie off to SWA equipment.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES

DID YOU KNOW?

The SWA inspects and disposes of 250-300 boats per year.

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