Boating Regulations

Regulated by the U.S. Coast Guard (850-488-5600) and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (863-648-3203)

Boating regulations in Florida are governed by the U.S. Coast Guard and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FFWCC) Law Enforcement Division.  Basically, the FFWCC enforces boating laws on inland waters, as in Highlands County.  They have the authority to enforce laws regarding proper boat equipment, proper boat markings, life vest regulations, boat speed regulations, manatee zone regulations, etc.  For more specific information about boating laws, boating safety courses, life jackets, etc., visit the FFWCC's boating page or the U.S. Coast Guard's boating safety page. The office of boating and waterways can be reached at 850-488-5600.

Call the FWC Enforcement Hotline (800-404-FWCC or *FWC) to report:

• Fishing violations
• Boating accidents
• Oil spills
• Dead or injured marine mammals, sea turtles, or other wildlife
• For information on boating safety, shellfish harvesting, and fishing regulations

The boating safety hotline can be reached at 800-368-5647