Required Removal Project Permitting
Derelict Vessel Permitting Resource Page
Most derelict vessel removal projects in Florida require environmental permitting from all of the following agencies. Failure to apply and be granted required permitting before a project begins could result in state and/or federal fines and penalties being assessed. Call ahead before you begin any derelict vessel removal project. Find agency locator maps and contact information at the links below:
- Florida Department of Environmental Protection
- United States Army Corps of Engineers
- Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary
Exemption
State rule provides an exemption to derelict vessel removal permitting whereby obtaining a Florida Department of Environmental Protection permit to remove a derelict vessel from state waters is not required as long as:
- Best management practices are followed.
- No harm to the environment is done. If damage may occur, the project should be reviewed and permitted. Failure to comply with the no harm clause could result in fines and/or prosecution.
- The derelict vessel case has been entered into the Statewide Derelict Vessel Database maintained by the FWC.
For more information, see Administrative Rule 62-330.051(5)(g).
NOTE: State rule does not provide an exemption for any necessary U.S. Army Corps of Engineers or Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary permits.