Relieving yourself over the side of a boat could soon be banned in parts of the Marlborough Sounds.
A proposed new rule, part of Marlborough District Council's Marlborough Environment Plan, means boaties would have to be 1km off shore, rather than 500 metres, before they can discharge their untreated sewerage.
Also in the plan is a new 1km restriction for the discharge of untreated sewage near marine farms.
If adopted, the plan would come into effect on June 9, 2022.
Boat owner Ian Logan, who lives on his boat Eluder, told the Marlborough Express that urinating into the sea was common practice among sailors.