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Boating: Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program

NOTE: Funding for this program was not appropriated for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2009 and ending June 30, 2010

The Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program provides grants to local governments for the removal of derelict vessels from Florida waters.

The program was established by Florida Statute 376.15.

Rules governing the program are in the Florida Administrative Code, Chapter 68D-16.029 ()

What is a derelict vessel?

"Derelict vessel" means any vessel that is left, stored, or abandoned: in a wrecked, junked, or substantially dismantled condition upon any public waters of this state, at any port in this state without the consent of the agency having jurisdiction thereof, or docked or grounded at or beached upon the property of another without the consent of the owner of the property.

For more information on derelict vessels, contact your local Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission district office ().

How is the program funded?

Pursuant to Florida Statute 376.11, the program is funded by the Florida Coastal Protection Trust Fund.

Who may apply for a derelict vessel removal grant?

All local governments in Florida are eligible for participation in this program.

Florida Statute requires that the transfer of a vessel be made with a title. Failure to do so may cause the previous owner to remain legally responsible for a future derelict vessel. Failure by a vessel owner to notify DHSMV within 30 days of transferring title is a 2nd degree misdemeanor. See 328.64, F.S., for further information.

For more information about the Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program, please contact:

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission

Division of Law Enforcement

620 South Meridian Street

Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600

Phone: (850) 488-5600

Fax: (850) 488-9284