Fla. Stat. § 327.45 Protection Zones For Springs

• Library: Florida Statutes
• Edition: 2023
• Currency: Current through Chapter 352 of the 2023 Legislative Session
• Year: 2023
• Citation: Fla. Stat. § 327.45

(1) As used in this section, the term "navigable waters of the United States" means the waters of the United States, including the territorial seas, as referenced in the Clean Water Act, 33 U.S.C. ss. 1251 et seq., and the federal rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.

(2) The commission may establish by rule protection zones that restrict the speed and operation of vessels, or that prohibit the anchoring, mooring, beaching, or grounding of vessels, to protect and prevent harm to first, second, and third magnitude springs and springs groups, including their associated spring runs, as determined by the commission using the most recent Florida Geological Survey springs bulletin. This harm includes negative impacts to water quality, water quantity, hydrology, wetlands, and aquatic and wetland-dependent species.

(3) When developing a protection zone, the commission shall do so in consultation and coordination with the water management district, the Department of Environmental Protection, and the governing bodies of the county and municipality, if applicable, in which the zone is located. If the zone includes navigable waters of the United States, the commission shall additionally coordinate with the United States Coast Guard and the United States Army Corps of Engineers.