New anchoring rules for Florida Keys eyed

The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission is seeking input on new rules for where Monroe County boaters can drop anchor for more than three months at a time.

Florida legislators last year updated state law to designate the Florida Keys as an “anchoring limitation area.” The change requires vessels to pull anchor and relocate every 90 days or less, with specific areas designated for long-term stays.

Hundreds of Keys residents live on their boats, which can be cheaper than buying or renting homes or marina space.

FWC is accepting public comments on seven proposed “designated anchoring areas” through April 30.

– Jesse Scheckner, Florida Politics