Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program

Total Removal Funding

2023/2024 Derelict Vessel Grant Opportunities

The FWC, pursuant to sections 206.606 and 823.11, F.S., has a program to provide grants to reimburse local governments for removing derelict vessels from the public waters of the state. The program is funded by an appropriation from the Florida Legislature.

The FWC's Derelict Vessel Grant Guidelines allow for the receipt of these grant applications on a continuing basis with no deadlines as long as funding is available. The FWC will pay 100% reimbursement to the grantee for all eligible vessels in the grant contract.

At a minimum, eligibility includes an opportunity for the vessel owner to challenge the derelict vessel determination in criminal court and/or in an administrative hearing. Vessel cases in which administrative hearing opportunities weren’t offered to vessel owners will not be considered for state funding assistance.

Rapid Removal Grant Program

Applications that meet the requirements for the Rapid Removal Grant Program may be submitted at any time as long as funding is available. Rapid removal cases must also meet guideline and due process requirements. All applications will require a law enforcement Letter of Authorization to remove and dispose of the vessel applied for in the application submitted. Applications may be emailed to DVGrant@MyFWC.com or mailed to:

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission
Boating and Waterways Section
Derelict Vessel Grant Program Administrator
620 S. Meridian Street – Room 235
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-1600

This grant program is available for state, county and local governments only. It is not available for private citizens or nongovernmental organizations.

Application and Guidelines:

For questions or additional information, please contact Phil Horning, FWC's Derelict Vessel Program Administrator, at (850) 617-9540 or Phil.Horning@MyFWC.com