The bill amends section 327.46 of the Florida Statutes to revise the authority of municipalities and counties in establishing ordinances for boating-restricted areas. It allows these local governments to create ordinances that regulate vessel speed and operation without needing prior review and approval from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. The bill also mandates that the boundaries of these restricted areas be clearly marked with uniform waterway markers. Notably, it removes previous provisions that required the commission's approval for such ordinances and clarifies the types of boating-restricted areas that can be established.

Additionally, the bill introduces new language that specifies the conditions under which municipalities and counties can create various types of boating-restricted areas, including idle speed, slow speed, and vessel-exclusion zones. It emphasizes the need for clear marking of these areas and allows for the establishment of restrictions based on safety concerns, such as visibility and navigation hazards. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2026.

Statutes affected:
H 1173 Filed: 327.46