The bill amends section 327.46 of the Florida Statutes to grant municipalities and counties the authority to adopt ordinances that extend boating-restricted areas under specific conditions. These ordinances can regulate vessel speed and operation within 300 feet of certain water body confluences that present visibility challenges, and can extend up to 1,000 feet if necessary for safe navigation. The bill also mandates that the boundaries of these areas be clearly marked with uniform waterway regulatory markers in accordance with commission rules.

Additionally, the bill outlines various types of ordinances that can be established, including those for idle speed, minimum wake, and vessel-exclusion zones. It specifies that any ordinance adopted must be reviewed and approved by the commission to ensure it is necessary for public safety, with a timeline for the commission to act on applications. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1173 Filed: 327.46
H 1173 c1: 327.46