Dumping untreated sewage into the water, particularly in large quantities, can have a detrimental effect on the environment and human health. As more and more recreational boaters make use of Florida’s waterways, the state has had to implement strict sewage disposal laws in order to protect local ecosystems and populations. Find out about Florida’s marine … Read more ›
Life jackets aren’t just for weak swimmers and children. They can save your life if you are unexpectedly thrown overboard or become too tired, injured or cold to keep yourself afloat. While not required by law, the state of Florida strongly recommends that life jackets be worn at all times while boating. Find out the … Read more ›
A divers-down warning device serves to alert boaters in the vicinity that there are divers in the water. It must be displayed when and only when there are individuals who are partially or wholly submerged underwater and using some type of breathing apparatus (snorkels included). This requirement is intended to reduce the risk of run-over … Read more ›
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Division of Law Enforcement is responsible for regulating and enforcing boating laws in the state. Florida boating law enforcement Law enforcement officers of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, county sheriff’s deputies, municipal police officers and all other law enforcement officers have the authority to enforce Florida’s … Read more ›
It’s important for boaters to know what steps to take in the event of an emergency on the water. The state of Florida has laws in place to ensure that when an accident happens, help is given to those who need it and the authorities are notified in a timely manner. Find out what your … Read more ›
The state of Florida has strict regulations governing the titling and registration of recreational vessels. Boat owners and operators should familiarize themselves with these requirements and follow them assiduously in order to remain in compliance with state law. Florida boat registration and titling All motorized vessels on state waterways are required to have a title … Read more ›
Aquatic nuisance species are plants, fish, mollusks etc. that are not native to an area but spread quickly once introduced and cause harm to the local ecosystem and human health, recreational and economic interests. They may kill, starve out or displace native species, affect public water supplies, cause flooding or detract from the enjoyment of … Read more ›
Airboats are flat-bottomed vessels powered by an internal combustion engine and propelled by an aircraft-style propeller mounted on the stern. They are a popular means of transportation in shallow, marshy waters where a submerged propeller would be impractical, such as the Florida Everglades. Airboat muffler laws in Florida Since airboats are powered by internal combustion … Read more ›
Personal watercraft (PWCs) are motorized vessels under 16 ft in length that are powered by waterjet propulsion. They are usually designed to hold two or three people, who stand, kneel or sit on the craft rather than inside it. PWCs are often called by their brand names, which include Jet Ski, Sea-Doo and WaveRunner. … Read more ›
According to the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation, 82% of victims who drowned in New York between 2005 and 2021 were not wearing a life jacket. Considering the major role PFDs play in saving lives on the water, they should ideally be worn at all times while boating. However, the … Read more ›
