State Looks to Remove Derelict Boats After Ian

Of 7,000 boats believed displaced by Hurricane Ian, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission reported Friday that owners of about 50 have given derelict vessels to the state.

With about 2,100 displaced boats in state waters, the agency has given owners until Nov. 15 to remove those vessels or get them into non-derelict condition.

“At this time, the FWC (the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) will not be charging displaced vessel owners with a criminal violation of Florida law but the decision to hold vessel owners responsible for removal, destruction and disposal costs could be made at a future date,” the agency said Friday.

The agency noted that owners can release control of vessels if they don’t have resources to cover repairs.

On Wednesday, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced creation of a program where residents can request removal of displaced and abandoned property such as boats, cars, motorcycles, trailers and all-terrain vehicles from upland private and commercial properties and in waterways.

Tags: News Service of Florida