Harsher marine pollution penalties to be introduced
A fine for illegal sewage discharges is to more than double with the introduction of stricter regulations aimed at reducing marine pollution from smaller vessels.
Jaché Adams, the Minister of Public Works and Environment, announced to the House of Assembly that the maximum fine for the violation has increased from $8,000 to $20,000.
The Water Resources (Prevention of Pollution by Sewage from Boats) Amendment Regulations 2025, pursuant to the Water Resources Amendment Act 2024, were laid in the House of Assembly yesterday.
Mr Adams said the regulations are part of the Government’s “ongoing commitment to protecting Bermuda’s environment and preserving the health of our marine ecosystem”.
He revealed that since 2018, there had been just one successful prosecution for illegal discharge.
The case involved a visiting yacht that emptied its sewage tanks “in broad daylight” near King’s Square in St George’s Harbour.
Mr Adams said the increased penalty was “sending a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated”.
He added: “Recent monitoring has shown, at times, elevated levels of bacteria in popular boating and swimming areas, particularly where boats tend to raft up during the warmer months.
“These levels are sometimes linked to illegal sewage discharge. With that said, I want to be clear on this point, our waters remain safe for swimming.
“These regulations are about staying ahead of the problem and preventing long-term harm to both human health and marine life.
“In addition to potential health concerns, pollution in shallow and enclosed waters contributes to environmental stress especially when warmer temperatures lead to low oxygen levels.
“These conditions increase the risk of fish kills and can damage sensitive marine ecosystems.”
Boat operators, particularly those entering Bermuda from overseas, will now be required to maintain and submit discharge records.
This aims to help authorities ensure compliance with the law and track discharge practices more accurately.
Additionally, the regulations authorise designated officers, including members of the Bermuda Police Service, the Royal Bermuda Regiment Coastguard and trained public officers appointed by the minister, to board vessels where there is reasonable cause to suspect a breach of the law.
Mr Adams said: “These designated officers will not be authorised to board these vessels without reasonable cause and these inspections must take place during reasonable hours, and with proper identification.
“Officers will be permitted to examine discharge systems, review records and use inert dye tablets to help identify illegal sewage dumping.”
The new rules do not apply to larger vessels such as cruise ships and commercial ships, which are covered under merchant shipping regulations under the Ministry of Transport.
Mr Adams said that in the coming weeks, he will bring forward additional regulations to address pollution risks in the public water systems and aquifers.
He reminded boaters to use designated pump-out facilities when available and to ensure the government-issued educational sticker is clearly placed near the boat’s head.
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