The issue of boats moored in what people consider their backyard comes up periodically. Boats can break loose from moorings in storms. Invasion of privacy. No rent, itinerants. Get rid of them.
We have looked into it several times. The answer is the same. If they are not breaking a law then there is nothing we can do. I've had them virtually in my back yard (don't get me started on the late night snook fishing). It comes with the territory. We live on the water because we love it. The water has boats.
Here is the latest from our St Pete Beach Police:
From: Dean Horianopoulos Sent: Thursday, May 12, 2011 2:56 PM To: Mike Bonfield Cc: Dave Romine; Officer Micklitsch Subject: Sailboat near the CC
CM, I spoke with our marine officer (Bob Micklitsch) reference the sailboat anchored in the inter-coastal waterway near the community center. According to Bob, both he and PCSO have had numerous contacts with the owner. The owner lives in the apartment complex just north of the community center, and gets to and from the sailboat via a dingy.
Bob told me he keeps a close eye to ensure the vessel isn’t dumping waste into the waterway. He also mentioned that several years ago, state statue was amended to enable boat owners to anchor in this manner. Bob assured me that if he sees a violation, he will act on it.
Let us know if you need anything else. Thanks!
Captain Dean Horianopoulos St. Pete Beach Police Department 200 76th Avenue St. Pete Beach Florida (727) 363-9216 Office deanh@stpetebeach.org