§ 8-145. Regulation of vessels anchored in public waterways.

(a)

Except as authorized in section 8-146, it is unlawful to anchor or moor in the public waterways of the city in excess of twenty-four (24) consecutive hours, except in an emergency situation.

(b)

In the event of an emergency situation, the owner or occupant of the vessel shall immediately contact the appropriate authorities and inform them of the nature of the emergency and the amount of time required to remedy the emergency situation. Upon abatement of the emergency, the vessel may anchor or moor under permit in a designated area.

(c)

Anchoring or mooring in the public waterways for more than twenty-four (24) consecutive hours is permitted only at a site designated by resolution of the city commission as appropriate for liveaboard vessels or for special events. Such resolution shall establish policy for mooring location, maximum length of stay, motor vehicle parking rules, permit fee and other rules and regulations that shall apply to each designated site.

(d)

The supervisor of marine facilities shall issue a permit to anchor or moor in a designated area if space is available and upon remittance of the required permit fee unless the supervisor finds:

(1)

The vessel does not have adequate facilities for living aboard without creating a health hazard; or

(2)

The vessel is not seaworthy and may reasonably constitute a hazard to life or navigation.

The decision of the supervisor to accept or reject a vessel for anchorage or moorage is final. The owner or occupant of a vessel receiving a permit shall be required to keep a copy thereof prominently displayed on such vessel during the entire duration of the anchorage or moorage so that it is clearly visible from the exterior of the vessel and to produce it upon demand of any police officer, auxiliary police officer or supervisor of marine facilities or his assistant.

(e)

This section shall not apply to the anchorage or moorage of nonliveaboard vessels engaged in the exercise of rights of navigation.

(Code 1953, § 11-38; Ord. No. C-71-101, § 1, 11-2-71; Ord. No. C-87-96, § 1, 11-17-87)

State law reference

Anchoring so as to interfere with navigation, F.S. § 327.44.