Anchorage Limitation Areas implemented in Venice

 

 

Anchorage Limitation Areas implemented in Venice

Francesco Abbruzzino, The Uncensored Report, LLC

 

COV

 

The Venice Police Department and Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office have long faced the challenge of balancing the rights of responsible boat owners with the need to address poorly maintained, derelict vessels. These vessels, often used as live-a-boards, can pose significant hazards to navigation and the environment. After storms, they frequently wash ashore and are abandoned, leaving taxpayers to cover the cost of removal.

 

To manage this issue, Anchorage Limitation Areas (ALAs) have been implemented. These areas allow vessels to anchor for up to 45 days within a six-month period. This ordinance is currently in place in Roberts Bay, Higel Basin and has been adopted by the City of Venice. The City recently completed the installation of the regulatory signage and buoys to delineate the ALAs and allow for enforcement to commence.

After 45 days, vessels must relocate at least 3 nautical miles from their original location. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in the issuance of violation, fines, and potentially impoundment of the vessel.

For more information, contact Master Police Officer Paul Joyce with the VPD Marine Unit at [email protected]