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Editor: Rod Sullivan
Profession: Maritime Attorney

Category: Boating Accidents

Here is a call I get frequently: Someone abandoned a boat on public proprerty. I think it has value. Can I claim it?

If you find a lost or abandoned vessel ashore, you can claim it by calling your local sheriff's office. You will have to complete a "Found Property Claim".

If the boat is on the water, you may call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-3922.

You will be required to pay a fee to cover the cost of advertising a notice in a local newspaper. In addition, you will need to pay all towing and storage costs, and any other costs associated with removing the vessel.

If the owner does not claim the vessel within 90 days after the report is made, title to the vessel may be transferred to you as the finder. (See 705.104(1), Florida Statutes).

If title to the vessel is transferred to you, you need to contact the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and request an officer complete a vessel inspection. After the inspection is completed, please contact the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles to request a new title at: http://www.hsmv.state.fl.us/dmv/faqboat.html.