Zero Waste Marin provides safe and convenient options for Marin County residents to properly dispose of boat and marine-related hazardous waste. These programs help protect local waterways and support responsible boating practices.
Residents can dispose of common boat-related hazardous waste through Marin County’s Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) program and special marine collection opportunities.
If an item is not accepted through a marine-specific program, Marin County residents can take it to the San Rafael Household Hazardous Waste facility. Novato residents should use the Novato Household Hazardous Waste facility.
Important: These programs are available to Marin County residents only, including those living on boats or in houseboats. Businesses must use standard hazardous waste disposal services.
Examples of hazardous materials commonly generated by boats, marinas, and houseboats.
The Oil & Absorbent Pad Exchange Program (OAEP) helps prevent oil from entering local waterways.
Boaters, marina tenants, and houseboat residents can receive a free absorbent pillow or sheet to place in the bilge. These absorbents capture oil before it can be discharged into the water. Once saturated, participating marinas will collect and properly dispose of the used material and provide a replacement.
Program details:
San Rafael Yacht Harbor
557 Francisco Blvd. East
San Rafael, CA 94901
(415) 456-1600
Clipper Yacht Harbor
310 Harbor Dr.
Sausalito, CA 94965
(415) 332-3500
Marine flares are hazardous and should never be placed in the trash. Zero Waste Marin periodically offers collection events where residents can safely dispose of expired or unwanted flares.
Boats, marinas, and houseboats may also generate other types of household hazardous waste that are not accepted through marine-specific programs. Items such as gasoline, solvents, paint products, cleaners, adhesives, and other marine chemicals should be taken to the San Rafael Household Hazardous Waste Facility for proper disposal.
Do not place hazardous materials in trash, recycling, or organics carts.
Boat & Marina Hazardous Waste Requires Special Handling and Disposal Boat and marina hazardous waste must be taken to an approved collection facility or event. Placing hazardous waste in trash, recycling, or organics carts is illegal in California. Marine flares and oil-soaked absorbent pads can create fire and environmental hazards if improperly disposed of.
