Boat
Posted date : Dec 19, 2023.
My wife and I plan on towing our boat to Florida this year to use for the five months that we are there. Do we need to let U.S. Customs know in advance of our crossing? Do we need a permit from the Florida government to use the boat in Florida? The boat will not be left in the water. It will be trailered in and out every time we use it.
Jim Desson
Goderich, ON
Ed.: You do not need to notify U.S. Customs in advance. You must be prepared to provide proof of ownership for the boat and the trailer when you cross the border. Evidence of insurance coverage is advisable for good measure. You do not need a permit to operate your Canadian vessel in Florida, however you should make sure that you have the specific safety equipment on board that is required by the state of Florida. You can “google” Florida Boat Safety Equipment requirements, which will direct you to the Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission website for details.
This is the link: myfwc.com/boating/safety-education/equipment/vessels-16-to-259-feet
