Florida
Marine Turtle Protection Laws in Florida
January 13, 2023
There are 5 species of marine turtles in Florida: loggerhead, green, leatherback, Kemp’s ridley and hawksbill. All 5 species are listed as either endangered or threatened. As such, they and their habitats are protected by federal and state law. Discover what the law says about protecting sea turtles, and what boaters can do to help! … Read more ›
Florida Seagrass Protection and Destruction Penalties
Seagrass is a type of underwater flowering plant that is usually found in shallow marine waters and estuaries. Seagrass plays a vital role in Florida’s marine ecosystems, but is currently under threat from careless recreational boating practices. Discover the penalties for the destruction of seagrass in Florida, why the plant is so important and what … Read more ›
Laws Protecting Manatees in Florida State
The Florida manatee is a subspecies of West Indian manatee that has been designated as the state’s official marine mammal. Found throughout peninsular Florida, these gentle, slow-moving giants make their home in calm rivers, estuaries and bays, and move to warmer waters in the winter. Manatees in Florida are currently threatened by algae blooms … Read more ›
Boating Under the Influence (BUI) Laws and Penalties in Florida
Boating under the influence of alcohol or drugs can seriously endanger the vessel operator, their passengers and others using the waterway. These substances dull the senses and reflexes that are vital for boaters to remain in command of their craft and stay safe on the water. That’s why the state of Florida has instituted strict … Read more ›
Personal Watercraft (PWC) Laws in Florida
Commonly known by brand names such as Jet Ski, Sea-Doo and WaveRunner, personal watercraft (PWCs) are small motorized vessels often used for water skiing and towing activities. Since their design and operation differs from regular boats in several ways, they are subject to their own specific requirements, restrictions and regulations under Florida law. Safety measures … Read more ›
Florida Towed Water Sports & Water Skiing Laws
November 30, 2022
Towed water sports are a category of aquatic activity that involves a person using a device such as a board or skis to aquaplane while being towed behind a vessel or PWC. Towing activities include wakesurfing, kneeboarding, water skiing, and more. Being towed behind a vessel can be dangerous, particularly in adverse conditions, so it’s … Read more ›
Reckless Boating Operation Regulations in Florida
While pleasure craft operators in Florida are not all required to take a boating safety course, they are nevertheless obliged to familiarize themselves with safe boating practices and vessel regulations. Boaters are responsible for operating their vessel safely and in compliance with state law. Find out what the state of Florida considers reckless boating and … Read more ›
Florida Clean Vessel Act, Marine Sanitation and Pumpout Stations
November 29, 2022
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 ›
Florida Life Jacket Laws & Requirements
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 ›
Florida Divers-Down Flag Symbol and Laws
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 ›