Florida Kayaking Laws and Safety

Florida is popular spot for kayaking. The state has several regulations governing kayaks that must be followed when on the water. Kayak or yacht, these rules apply to any flotation device. Learning what is expected of you can make your next kayak trip safer.

  1. Regulations

    • According to the Florida Marine Guide, every person in a kayak must have a life jacket. Also, Florida and the United State Coast Guard require that a whistle, or some other sounding device, be on board at all times. If you plan an overnight or sunrise outing, the kayak must also display some sort of white light. The light helps avoid accidents with other boaters.

    Vessel Registration

    • In Florida, any flotation device must be registered, including kayaks. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, the vessel registration application and title must be filed with the tax collector's office in the county where the owner lives. Anyone who purchases a new boat or kayak has 30 days to file. Until the boat owner receives his registration, he must have a bill of sale with him anytime he is on the water. If you are on vacation, Florida will acknowledge valid registration certificates for 90 days. If you plan to be in Florida longer than 90 days, you must file with the county tax collector.

    Safety Tips

    • The Florida Marine Guide offers these kayaking safety tips: Never paddle alone. Do not pile the kayak full of gear and when loading distribute the weight evenly. Before going out on the water, check for leaks. Be aware of any rapids or low-head dams and stay away from drop-offs and dams. Carry the kayak around low-head dams. Avoid areas in the river called "strainers." These obstructions can throw you out of the kayak or damage it. On a lake, keep a close eye on the weather and kayak close to shore.

    In Case of Accident

    • A brochure provided by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles states that, in the event of an accident, a kayak owner should report the incident to one of the following: the Division of Law Enforcement, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, the county sheriff or the police chief. Accidents can include, but are not limited to, a collision with another boat, capsizing, sinking, injury requiring medical attention, the disappearance of a kayaker or death.

    Places to Kayak

    • Florida offers many waterways that are shallow and ideal for kayaking. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, Jonathan Dickinson State Park is a popular spot for kayakers. The swampy area includes part of the Loxahatchee River. Florida also has a website--Florida Trails Network--with kayaking information.