Clean Vessel Act Grant Program

The Clean Vessel Act (CVA) grant program, administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), is currently on a temporary pause for accepting new applications until early December 2025. This temporary pause allows the department to implement significant improvements, including transitioning to a new grant processing system, updating agreement and reimbursement documentation, and enhancing the program website to improve access to application guidance, tools, and resources. While new applications are not being accepted during this period, all progress reports, gallon reports, reimbursement requests, and other documentation for active or completed agreements continue to be processed. The CVA grant program aims to support public-use marinas in Florida by funding infrastructure that promotes responsible sewage disposal from recreational boats. Projects funded through this program must serve the public, with pumpout units that charge no more than $5 per use and are listed in the Pumpout Nav app. Eligible activities include permitting, site preparation, renovations, equipment purchases and installation, equipment operation, maintenance and repairs, sewage hauling, pumpout signage, and the development of educational and instructional materials. Applicants must ensure that all manufactured products used in their projects comply with the Build America, Buy America (BABA) Act, which mandates U.S. production. Additionally, federal marina facilities are ineligible for CVA funding. It is crucial that no grant-funded work begins prior to a formal agreement being signed; otherwise, incurred costs will not be reimbursed. Applications must be submitted via email and include a fully completed CVA Grant Application, quotes for budget items exceeding $2,500 (two quotes required), a Federal Funding Accountability and Transparency Act form (if applicable), photographic documentation of the marina, Sunbiz registration (for private entities), MyFlorida marketplace registration, a Unique Entity ID from SAM.gov, a valid W-9 form, and required insurance documentation. Insurance minimums include liability, automobile, and worker’s compensation coverage. Self-insured government entities must provide a letter confirming their status. Once an application is submitted, it undergoes a completeness review by DEP staff. Applicants will then be contacted by a grant manager, and a site visit will be arranged. The program can cover up to 75% of eligible project costs, with the applicant responsible for the remaining share. Matching funds are required and must be documented appropriately. Prospective applicants are encouraged to revisit the program’s website for updates as the December 2025 reopening approaches.

Ensure the pumpout fee is no more than $5, submit complete insurance with DEP listed as certificate holder, and verify registration on required state and federal platforms before submitting.