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Editor: Rod Sullivan
Profession: Maritime Attorney

Category: Boating Accidents

Here is how:

First, look at Section 823.11 of Florida Statutes. It says in part:

(b) When a derelict vessel is docked or grounded at or beached upon private property without the consent of the owner of the property, the owner of the property may remove the vessel at the vessel owner's expense 60 days after compliance with the notice requirements specified in s. 328.17(5). The private property owner may not hinder reasonable efforts by the vessel owner or agent to remove the vessel. Any notice given pursuant to this paragraph shall be presumed delivered when it is deposited with the United States Postal Service, certified, and properly addressed with prepaid postage.

Then look at Section 328.17(5) of Florida Statutes, which requires you to send a letter to the owner by certified mail, post a notice on the boat, and provide notice to anyone else who might have an interest in the boat.

You may then advertise it and sell it. If there are no bidders, it is yours to do with as you wish.