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How to apply for PUMPOUT GRANTS

Marine Sewage Pumpout Facility Grants
The Department of Natural Resources provides a reimbursement of up to $15,000 to marinas for the purchase and installation of marine sewage pumpout facilities. Marinas that install these systems provide boaters with a proper method of disposing of their sewage and thus contribute to cleaning up Maryland waters. Grant funding is also available for a reimbursement of pumpout operations and pumpout operations and maintenance, pumpout upgrades and replacement. This program is funded by the Federal Clean Vessel Act (75%) with supporting funds (25%) from the Maryland Waterway Improvement Fund.

Who Should Apply?
Any public or private marina.

How to Apply

  • Step 1: Download and complete a copy of DNR’s grant application from www.dnr.state.md.us/boating/pumpout/ (Adobe Acrobat format) or contact DNR at (410) 260-8772.


  • Step 2: Submit completed application to DNR with a proposed plan for the facility which includes the following:

    • Brief description of the project
    • Equipment to be purchased (including prices)
    • At least two competitive bids for installation (i.e., plumbing and electrical)
    • Copies of any required permits submitted to your local health department agency and the Maryland Department of the Environment. (DNR can help put you in touch with the proper agencies.)
    • Drawing showing location for installation (include electrical and plumbing runs)

  • Step 3: Once permits have been approved and all documentation has been received, DNR will approve the application and forward a copy to you with an approval letter for your files.


  • Step 4: Purchase and install pumpout facility and notify DNR when complete.


  • Step 5: Once equipment has been purchased, submit invoice with receipts and proof of payment to DNR. Marinas must pay for the equipment up-front and can immediately submit paperwork for partial reimbursement on the equipment itself.


  • Step 6: Installation expenses and final reimbursement payments will be made after final inspection has been made.

NOTES: Some counties charge permit fees for first-time installations. These fees are reimbursable and should be included in your requested grant amount. Maryland law requires that all marinas with 50 or more slips berthing any boats over 22’, must have a pumpout. New marinas and expanding marinas with more than 10 slips must also have pumpouts.

Chesapeake Bay Hotline

Call 1-877-224-7229

to report any of the following

  • Boating accident or reckless activity
  • Fish kill or algal bloom
  • Floating debris that poses a hazard to navigation
  • Illegal fishing activity
  • Public sewer leak or overflow
  • Oil or hazardous material spill
  • Critical area or wetlands violation
  • Suspicious or unusual activity