Grants & Loans: Investing in California
California State Parks Division of Boating and Waterways (DBW) administers several grant and loan programs designed to improve and safeguard the boating experience for all users. Funds provided through these programs enhance recreational boating infrastructure and safety statewide from Mission Bay to Lake Shasta and many lakes, rivers, and streams in between.
California has approximately 2.6 million recreational boats and over 4 million recreational boaters. Recreational boating annually contributes several billion dollars to the state's economy, and DBW investments help to strengthen this economy through our many grant and loan programs.
Program specific details and contact information for each grant and loan program can be accessed using the links below. Current funding opportunities are located in the California Grants Portal.
Grant Programs
Aquatic Center Grant Program
Universities, colleges, local public and nonprofits are eligible to receive grants to fund classroom and on-the-water safety education.
Boat Launching Facilities
Local public entities may apply for grants to plan, design, renovate, and construct launching ramps and facilities for motorized and non-motorized boats.
Boating Infrastructure Grants (BIG)
Local public and private agencies may apply for grants to provide transient (guest) dockage for recreational vessels 26 feet or more in length.
Boating Safety and Enforcement Equipment
Local governmental agencies may apply for grants to purchase boats, equipment, dive gear, etc.
Boating Safety and Enforcement Financial Aid
Provides funding to local government agencies to augment their existing budget for boating law enforcement personnel, search and rescue operations, recovery of drowned bodies, etc.
Quagga and Zebra Mussel Infestation Prevention
Any person who owns or manages a reservoir that is open to the public and is not currently infested with the Dreissenid Mussel may apply for grants to be reimbursed for costs related to an infestation prevention program.
Sewage Management
Sewage management grants fund: the placement, operation and maintenance of vessel pumpout and dump station; education and outreach about proper sewage disposal for boaters, the use of pumpout facilities and pumpout monitoring; deployment, and operation and maintenance of floating restrooms.
Shoreline Erosion Control and Public Beach Restoration
Grants are available to public entities to plan, design and restore public beaches.
Surrendered and Abandoned Vessel Exchange
Public agencies may apply for grants to remove, store and dispose of abandoned recreational vessels, other navigational hazards and to dispose of surrendered recreational vessels.
Loan Programs
Public Marinas
Local public entities may apply for funding to plan, design, renovate and construct small craft harbors, marinas, dry storage facilities and fund emergency repairs.
Private Marinas
Local private entities may apply for funding to plan, design, renovate and construct small craft harbors, marinas, dry storage facilities and fund emergency repairs.