New Boating Safety Zone Approved

Boaters in Fort Lauderdale will soon see new speed restrictions along a busy stretch of the Intracoastal Waterway after the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) approved a new boating restricted area.

The new slow-speed, minimum-wake zone covers the section of the Intracoastal between the Oakland Park Boulevard Bridge and the Sunrise Boulevard Bridge, just west of Fort Lauderdale Beach. The change aims to reduce congestion and improve safety in one of South Florida's most heavily trafficked boating corridors. Slow speed is usually considered to be between 5 and 9 miles per hour.

Once the rule takes effect, FWC will install updated signage, and officers will focus on informing boaters as they adjust to the new restrictions. FWC anticipates changing the signage in mid-January 2026 and implementing a 30-day educational period where violations will result in warnings.

The new zone connects two existing year-round idle speed no-wake areas near the bridges and overlaps with a seasonal manatee protection zone.

"Fort Lauderdale's waterways are among our most treasured assets, and this is an important safety measure," said Mayor Dean Trantalis. "Ensuring that everyone can enjoy the water safely is a top priority for our community."

The City of Fort Lauderdale has been advocating for this change for months. In August of this year, a teenager was killed while riding a personal watercraft on the Intracoastal Waterway. Since then, city leaders worked tirelessly to come up with ways to improve safety, and support the changes made by FWC.

"This new boating zone is about protecting people, property and the natural environment," said City Manager Rickelle Williams. "By slowing down in this area, boaters will have more time to react, avoid accidents and ensure everyone can enjoy our beautiful waterway safely."

The City's Marine Advisory Board and the Fort Lauderdale Police Department have expressed strong support for regulating vessel speeds, emphasizing the need to address public safety concerns in this area.

"Our goal is not to write tickets but to educate through enforcement; making your safety our priority," said Fort Lauderdale Police Chief Bill Schultz. "This new zone will have a meaningful impact and create a safer waterway for all."

The City of Fort Lauderdale reminds all boaters to follow posted speed limits, stay alert and help keep the waterways safe for everyone.