New York Sea Grant's
Marina Pollution Prevention Web Site

Section 5: Facility Management - Pet Waste

Potential Environmental Impacts

Pet waste can contain harmful bacteria. If left on marina grounds, it will eventually enter the marina basin and contaminate the water and shellfish beds. The nutrients in pet waste may also encourage weed or algae growth in the marina basin, which may eventually lead to lower oxygen levels in water. Pet waste is also unsightly and may be a source of customer complaints.

Best Management Practices

Provide a dog walking area that is identifiable by signs.

Require customers to clean up after their pets. Provide bags for boaters to scoop up waste and dispose of in trash.

Specify pet waste rules in marina slip contract.

Encourage cat owners to maintain a litter box on their boat.

Regulatory Issues

Mismanaged pet waste may be considered public nuisance by a local health authorities if it is allowed to accumulate on-site.

Local ordinances may prohibit the leaving of pet waste on private property. Check with your municipality.