Florida’s waterways, including the Indian River Lagoon, will gain stronger protections against derelict vessels under a new law effective July 1, 2025.
Senate Bill 164, signed by Governor Ron DeSantis on June 19, aims to curb the growing issue of derelict and at-risk vessels that threaten the state’s aquatic environments and public safety.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) will lead the implementation of the law, which introduces stricter regulations and enforcement tools to hold vessel owners accountable.
The new law tackles several problems, like making it clearer who owns a boat and giving tougher punishments to people who repeatedly break the rules. It aims to cut down on the dangers to the environment and boaters caused by abandoned or neglected boats.
Key Provisions of Senate Bill 164
The new law has several rules to stop boats from becoming abandoned and to make it easier to remove them when needed:
- Clearer Ownership Rules: The law clarifies the definition of a “vessel owner” and establishes a valid vessel title as presumed evidence of ownership, simplifying enforcement actions.
- Mandatory Propulsion Checks: Owners of vessels deemed at-risk must now undergo an Effective Means of Propulsion (EMP) evaluation when requested by law enforcement. If an officer suspects a vessel lacks proper propulsion, the owner must comply immediately or within 48 hours if notified otherwise.
- Public Nuisance Designation: Vessels accumulating three citations for at-risk conditions—such as unpaid fines or failure to appear in court—within a 24-month period can be declared a public nuisance, subjecting them to removal like derelict vessels.
- Expanded Citation Authority: Minor violations, like expired registrations or unauthorized long-term anchoring, can now be addressed through mailed noncriminal citations, easing the burden on law enforcement.
- Flexible Funding for Removal: Funds previously reserved for derelict vessel (DV) removal can now also support preventive efforts through the Vessel Turn-In Program (VTIP) and the removal of public nuisance vessels.
- Tougher Penalties for Repeat Offenders: The law escalates penalties for derelict vessel violations, with a first offense classified as a first-degree misdemeanor, a second as a third-degree felony, and a third as a second-degree felony.
- Ban on Living Aboard Derelict Vessels: Residing on a court-declared derelict vessel, or one where the owner has not requested an administrative hearing, is now a first-degree misdemeanor.
Starting July 1, 2026, vessels anchoring long-term will require an annual electronic permit from the FWC. Unauthorized anchoring will incur fines of $100 for a first offense, $250 for a second, and $500 for a third or subsequent violation.
Three violations within two years may result in the vessel being declared a public nuisance and removed. Exemptions apply for government-operated vessels, construction vessels, those engaged in fishing, or those docked at public or private facilities or permitted moorings.
A Growing Problem
Derelict vessels—those that are sinking, grounded, stripped, or lacking essential systems—pose significant risks to Florida’s seagrass beds, marine life, navigation, and public safety.
“These vessels are not just eyesores; they’re environmental and safety hazards,” said Capt. Travis Franklin, leader of the FWC’s Derelict Vessel Removal and Prevention Program. “This new legislation enhances our efforts to not only remove derelict vessels but also prevent at-risk vessels from becoming derelict.”
The FWC has already removed nearly 200 vessels via the Vessel Turn-In Program. This voluntary program encourages owners of at-risk vessels to surrender them before they become derelict, reducing costs and environmental damage.
“We’ve seen increasing success,” Franklin added, “and this law gives us more tools to keep our waterways safe and clean.”
Environmental and Economic Stakes
The local waterways are vital to the state’s economy, boosting tourism, fishing, and outdoor activities. Abandoned or derelict boats harm these industries by damaging delicate ecosystems like seagrass beds, which are important homes for marine animals. These boats also create dangers for boaters and property by blocking safe navigation routes.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is working harder with local governments and police to tackle these problems. The Vessel Turn-In Program is a big part of this effort, and it’s open for boat owners who want to safely get rid of vessels that are at risk of becoming derelict.
Looking Ahead
As the FWC prepares to enforce Senate Bill 164, officials are urging vessel owners to comply with the new regulations to avoid penalties and protect Florida’s waterways. “Leaving a vessel in a derelict condition is a crime,” Franklin emphasized. “We’re committed to working with boaters to prevent these issues and preserve our natural resources for future generations.”
For more information on the new law, derelict vessels, or the Vessel Turn-In Program, visit MyFWC.com/Boating.
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