Derelict Vessel Removal Grant Program
Total Removal Funding
2024/2025 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.
NEW! Derelict Vessel Block Grant Program
The FWC is providing block grants to local governments for costs associated with removing from state waters, storing, destroying and disposing derelict and at-risk vessels that have become a public nuisance. Local governments may apply by reviewing the guidelines and completing the application (selecting the Block Grant option).
Successful block grant applicants will be reimbursed for eligible derelict vessel removal costs. The block grant allows the approved and awarded entity to remove derelict vessels within their jurisdiction without the need to pre-apply for removals. Only those vessels meeting the requirements outlined in the guidelines are eligible for reimbursement. Awarded entities will have a specific amount of funding available.
Application and Guidelines:
For More Information
Contact Phil Horning, FWC's Derelict Vessel Program Administrator, at 850-617-9540 or Phil.Horning@MyFWC.com