What is required for a boat operating in a No Discharge Zone with a "Y" valve?

In a No Discharge Zone, it is essential to prevent the discharge of sewage or wastewater from boats into the water to protect the aquatic environment. Securing the "Y" valve in the closed position is the correct requirement in this situation. This action ensures that any waste is retained in the onboard holding tank and cannot be discharged into the surrounding water.

Using the "Y" valve freely would allow for potential discharges, which contradicts the regulations in a No Discharge Zone. Removing the "Y" valve entirely could lead to non-compliance with specific plumbing requirements on a boat, while simply replacing it with a standard valve doesn't address the primary concern of preventing sewage discharge. Therefore, securing the "Y" valve in the closed position is the most effective way to comply with environmental protections and maintain the integrity of water quality in designated No Discharge Zones.