Finding a pump-out station can be tricky, but it’s an essential part of responsible boating. Knowing where to safely dispose of your boat’s wastewater keeps waterways clean and ensures you stay compliant with regulations. This is important for boaters practically everywhere – whether you’re cruising along the coast, exploring lakes, or docking at a marina.
What is a Pump-Out?
If you have a head (toilet) on your boat, all of your business has to go somewhere after it’s flushed. First, it goes to your boat’s holding tank — but eventually, that tank needs to be emptied at a pump-out.
A pump-out is a facility where you can safely dispose of your boat’s sewage. Some pump-outs are permanent stations at marinas, while others are mobile services that come to you. Either way, their purpose is simple: keep waste out of our waterways and make boating cleaner for everyone.
Why Are Pump-Outs Necessary?
Proper waste disposal isn’t just a good idea — it’s the law in many areas. Using pump-outs:
- Protects waterways and wildlife by preventing untreated sewage from entering rivers, lakes, and oceans.
- Keeps marinas and public waterways clean and safe for all boaters.
- Ensures compliance with regulations, avoiding potential fines for improper disposal.
Pump-outs are a necessary part of ensuring boating is a fun and safe experience for everyone.
The Slow Way to Find a Pump-Out
If you’ve been boating for a while you’re probably used to having to rely on word of mouth and signage to find a pump-out. Your method might have been something like:
- Ask around at marinas.
- Check state/local government resources (some publish lists of pump-out stations, but they may be outdated).
- Look for dockside signage (not always reliable).
Even once you locate a station, you may run into problems: inconsistent hours, broken equipment, or private access only. Wasting time navigating detours and closed stations is frustrating, especially when you’re ready to get back on the water.
The Fast Way to Find a Pump-Out
Argo takes the guesswork out of locating pump-outs. All stations are already in the app’s map database, and because listings are updated with boater input, the information stays current and reliable.
Find a Pump-Out Using Argo
Follow along with this 40 second video to learn how to find a pump-out using Argo. Here are the steps:
- Tap the Search Icon (magnifying glass) in the upper menu
- Tap “Search Categories” (the third option in the list).
- Scroll down to amenities.
- Select “Pump Out”
- Tap “Show Results
You’ll see nearby pump-out stations on the chart. You can move the map to explore other areas, tap different options to see details, and even create a route or add the station to your planned trip.
Learn more about how to find places using Argo.
Tips for Using Pump-Outs
Some pro tips for using a pump-out:
- Call ahead to confirm hours or availability.
- Check if there’s a fee (and if so, carry cash/credit).
- Be courteous — leave the station clean for the next boater.
- If you notice inaccurate info, update it in Argo so the community benefits.
For newcomers, it’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with how a pump-out works before hitting the water.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
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What if the station is full or out of order?
Consider using Argo to find the next nearest option.
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How often should I pump-out?
Follow your local regulations and monitor your tank levels regularly.
See more commonly asked questions and troubleshooting help.
Final Thoughts About Pump-Outs
Proper waste disposal isn’t just about compliance. It keeps waterways enjoyable for everyone.
With Argo, finding a pump-out is fast, reliable, and stress-free. Be sure to download the app before your next trip to locate pump-outs, marinas, fuel docks, and more. That way you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your time on the water.
