Division of Boating and Waterways Local Assistance Pumpout/Dump Station Installation Grant FY23

The Clean Vessel Act (CVA) Grant Program, administered in California by the Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW), supports efforts to reduce pollution from vessel sewage discharges into United States waters. Established through federal legislation in 1992, the program funds the construction, renovation, operation, and maintenance of pumpout and dump stations that service pleasure craft. By facilitating proper sewage disposal and promoting educational outreach, the CVA program helps ensure recreational boating in California remains clean, safe, and environmentally responsible. Eligible applicants include a broad range of both public and private sector entities such as local government agencies, state agencies, districts, certified community conservation corps, other public agencies, private businesses including for-profit and commercial operators, as well as nonprofit organizations. All applicants must own or operate boating facilities that are open to the public. A central requirement of the program is that these funded facilities must remain accessible to all recreational vessels for the full useful life of the infrastructure. The grant reimburses up to 75% of the installed cost for eligible equipment and improvements. Allowable costs include new equipment purchases, renovations, pumps, piping, holding tanks, dock modifications, signage, permits, and related installation needs. However, the grant will not fund onshore restroom facilities or sewage treatment plants, including septic systems and other treatment devices. A 25% match is required from the applicant, which can be fulfilled through cash, in-kind contributions, or a combination of both. Reimbursement is not allowed for costs incurred prior to the execution of a grant agreement. Although user fees for facility use are permitted, they are capped at $5 per use. Proposals that offer free or reduced-cost use are given higher priority during evaluation. Additional responsibilities of the grant recipient include proper signage, ongoing maintenance, and the visible acknowledgment of Sport Fish Restoration Program funding. Applications for the FY 2025–26 grant cycle were published on July 31, 2025 and are open. There are no submission deadlines specific for this opportunity that applicants should be aware of per the online application website. Registration with the federal System for Award Management (SAM) is mandatory for all grantees. For application inquiries or assistance, Ethan Tratner serves as the primary point of contact and can be reached at ethan.tratner@parks.ca.gov or (916) 902-8823. Given the federal funding source (CFDA 97.012) and the competitive nature of this program, up to 10 awards are anticipated for the upcoming cycle. Applicants are evaluated on the completeness of their proposals, the level of public accessibility offered, and their commitment to the proper long-term maintenance and public service goals of the funded infrastructure. Future grant cycles are expected annually, with the next anticipated round likely opening in August 2026.

Costs incurred before the grant agreement are ineligible; attach all bids and match documentation; projects must demonstrate usage by recreational vessels; complete all required permits before construction; incomplete or handwritten applications will not be accepted.