At Risk Vessels
AT RISK
vessels are a concern for the boating public in the state of
Florida. Presently, State, County, and Local Law Enforcement
Officers are keeping their eyes on these vessels. If an officer
sees a vessel that is AT RISK, he will enter the vessel information
into a Statewide Database and will leave a notice on the vessel for
the owner to take action.
Claiming Abandoned Vessels
In the State of Florida there are no "Vessel Salvage Rights". In
order to claim title to an abandoned vessel, you must follow the
Statutes for Found Property. 705.102 FS requires a person to report
found property to Law Enforcement. After this has been done,
you may begin the process of claiming found property.
Useful Links for Vessel Buyers & Sellers
In Florida there is a legal requirement to complete when buying
or selling a vessel. It requires more than just a bill of sale, and
if not done correctly could subject you to criminal charges, Fines
and Fees! Click the link above to see how to properly buy and sell
vessels in Florida.
No person shall sell, assign or transfer a vessel titled by the
State of Florida without delivering to the purchaser or transferee
a valid certificate of title with an assignment on it showing
transfer of title to the purchaser or transferee. No person shall
purchase or otherwise acquire a vessel required to be titled by the
state without obtaining a certificate of title for it in their
name.
Abandoned Vessels
Florida is plagued with many abandoned vessels. These vessels
become derelict vessels quickly and then subject the boating public
to safety issues, become locations for illegal activity, illegal
housing, opportunities for theft and vandalism and ultimately cost
the taxpayers to be removed by Local, County or State
authorities.
Persons with Disabilities