The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) began work Sept. 16 to install waterway markers, including signs and buoys, to establish designated anchoring areas within portions of Boot Key, Bahia Honda, Niles Channel, Cow Key Channel, Sigsbee, Garrison Bight Flats and Fleming Key in Monroe County.
In 2022, the Florida Legislature approved changes to Section 327.4108, Florida Statutes, which designated Monroe County as an anchoring limitation area and requires each vessel anchored on state waters within the county, within 10 linear nautical miles of a public mooring field or designated anchoring area, to pull anchor and move at least once every 90 days. These statutory changes required the FWC to adopt rules establishing anchoring areas, along with maximum allowable vessel drafts, throughout Monroe County.
The installation of signs and buoys will notify boaters of designated anchoring areas, increase visibility of area boundaries and help vessel operators understand where anchoring restrictions apply. Clearly marked designated anchoring areas will also assist FWC law enforcement officers in enforcing applicable regulations and promoting compliance among vessel operators. Construction is expected to be completed by December 2026.
A vessel upon the waters of the state and within Monroe County, for which the owner or occupant has established the vessel as a residence in accordance with Section 222.17, Florida Statutes, is exempt from these relocation requirements until at least 60 new moorings are available for public use within 1 mile of the Key West Bight City Dock. The Monroe County government is in the process of securing appropriate permits for the establishment of the Man of War Harbor Mooring Field at Wisteria Island and estimates construction of the mooring field to be completed in spring 2027.
The FWC urges boaters to use caution, particularly in narrow waterways, while waterway marker construction is underway.
More information is at myfwc.com/boating; select “Waterway Management.”
