In 2024, the State of Vermont passed the Flood Safety Act, which requires that polystyrene foam be encapsulated when used in floating structures on or in Vermont waters.
Polystyrene foam pollution affects Vermont waters and Lake Champlain basin in general. Winds, waves, sunlight, heat, and organisms can cause uncovered polystyrene foam used in floating structures to break apart. In turn, small pieces of foam can spread, making them difficult to clean up. Once in the environment, foam pieces do not biodegrade. They carry toxic chemicals coming from the production process and the surrounding environment. This pollution can harm wildlife and pose health risks to people. The Flood Safety Act aims to prevent polystyrene foam pollution in Vermont waterways.
The Lake Champlain Basin Marine Debris Coalition has created education materials to help you understand this regulation.
Dock Float Systems: Life Span and Risks of Foam Pollution (PDF)
Floating Structures: What’s Legal and What isn’t in Vermont (PDF)
Watch “The Flood Safety Act and Foam Floatation In Vermont” Video
Watch the “Inspecting Your Encapsulated Foam Dock Floats” Video
For more information about the polystyrene foam regulation in Vermont, visit the Vermont DEC website.