Diving Regulations for the City of Marathon

 

Sport Lobster Season 2005 - July 27-28

 

During this year’s Sport Lobster Season or “mini season”, please keep in mind that the City of Marathon Ordinance 2003-24, prohibits diving and snorkeling within navigable canals and within 300 feet of marinas, improved residential and commercial shorelines of the City for the entire two-day sport lobster season.  The Ordinance aims to protect property and environmental resources while addressing the safety concerns of divers in areas where boats are navigating.

 

Diving and snorkeling are prohibited along any shoreline that may be considered either improved residential or commercial.  If there are any dwellings or buildings on the property then it can be considered improved residential or commercial.  If the property is a City park or public recreation area, then diving is allowed along that portion of the shoreline.  Contact the State park system for any regulations in regards to diving / harvesting adjacent to State property.

 

Nothing in the Ordinance shall prohibit diving incidental to vessel or dock maintenance provided the diver performing the maintenance lawfully displays a diver down flag and otherwise complies with the requirements of Chapter 327, of the Florida Statutes.  At no time should the diver performing the maintenance have in his / her possession lobster or fish harvesting equipment or paraphernalia.  Diving is not allowed at night during mini season.

 

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Monroe County Sheriff’s office will be enforcing this Ordinance during mini season.  A violation of the Ordinance may result in the issuance of a citation, summons, notice to appear in county court, or arrest.  Any offense is punishable by a fine not to exceed $500. 

 

If you have any questions or need additional information regarding the Ordinance, please contact the City Marina at (305) 289-8877.  Any reports of diving or snorkeling should also be reported to the City Marina or the Boot Key Bridge from 6:00 am to 10:00 pm at 743-5827.