What is the new law in Florida for boats?
A sweeping new law set to take effect on July 1, 2025, marks a major shift in how law enforcement interacts with Florida boaters. Known as the “Boater Freedom Act,” the law prohibits law enforcement officers from stopping or boarding vessels without probable cause or a suspected violation. According to Florida’s Open Container laws, the public consumption of alcohol is generally prohibited, which includes spaces such as parks, streets, or even beaches. Depending on where you are, you can be cited for possessing an open alcoholic beverage while in public.For those who were hoping the answer to this question would be yes, we have news for you — Florida law specifically states that it’s unlawful to possess an open container of an alcoholic beverage or consume alcohol while either driving or while a passenger in a motor vehicle.You can’t drink in a vehicle, or even carry an open bottle of alcohol. Boating in Florida is a different story. Not only is it OK to have beer aboard a boat, everyone can chug, even the captain. The only restriction on the operator of the boat: Don’t exceed the blood-alcohol level considered to be legally drunk.Boating under the influence (BUI) is illegal in Florida. Statute 327. BAC) level of 0. Having an open container on a boat, on the other hand, is not illegal.If you’re wondering whether you can carry a gun on a boat in Florida, the answer is generally yes — especially if you have a valid concealed carry permit.
Is it illegal to use a paddle board without a life jacket?
You are required by law to have a lifejacket or PFD (personal flotation device) on board for each person on a watercraft, including human-powered crafts. A child under the age of six must wear a USCG-approved Type I, II or III personal flotation device while onboard a vessel under 26 feet in length while the vessel is underway.
Can anyone drive a pontoon boat in Florida?
Florida State Law requires that you be at least 21 years old and in possession of a Florida Boater’s License in order to operate any boat with an engine of 10 horsepower and above in Florida waters. This means you meed a boater’s license to rent a pontoon boat. For visitors who simply plan to rent a boat or PWC, Florida’s temporary boating license or safety certificate is probably the way to go. This card is good for 90 days, and it costs a fraction of the lifetime course at just $9.
Do you need paddles in a boat?
Paddles or oars with rowlocks must be carried on boats up to 6m long, unless the boat has a second means of propulsion – for example, an engine on a sailing boat, or a second engine on a powerboat. In Europe the biggest boat you could captain is about 18 feet long and with a motor not exceeding 30 HP… everything else needs a license. The US is a different story, as long as your boat is not for plight or hire there are no limits.
Do you need a life jacket to paddle board in Florida?
These human-powered vessels are subject to the same safety and operational requirements as other watercraft in Florida. Life jacket – One U. S. Coast Guard–approved wearable life jacket for each person on board. Must be worn by children under 6 years of age. All others strongly advised to wear a life jacket. Each person on board a PWC, and anyone being towed behind a vessel, must wear a USCG–approved life jacket. Inflatable life jackets are not to be worn on PWC or while water-skiing.The Coast Guard classifies a Type 1 life jacket as the highest classification for a PFD. It’s also known as an offshore life jacket because it’s suitable for use in open waters where rescue may be delayed. It provides a high level of buoyancy and is appropriate for rough conditions at sea.
What is mandatory to have on a boat in Florida?
All vessels are required to have onboard a wearable USCG-approved personal flotation device (PFD) for each person. The PFDs must be of the appropriate size for the intended wearer, be in serviceable condition, and within easy access. The state of Florida urges all people onboard a boat to wear a life jacket. The U. S. Coast requires that: You need a wearable PFD for every person onboard your boat, and it needs to be the right size. Four adults and two children? You need four adult-sized PFDs and two-child sized PFDs.PFDs, Flares Fire Extinguishers, Sound Devices and Lights To legally operate your vessel, both the Coast Guard and the states require you to carry certain equipment aboard your boat.