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Bill

Bill

SB 284

Recreational Customary Use of Beaches

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Darryl Rouson

Bill establishing recreational customary use rights for Florida beaches died in committee, though companion legislation (CS/SB 1622) ultimately passed into law.

Died in Judiciary, companion bill(s) passed, see CS/SB 1622 (Ch. 2025-178)
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Bill Summary · SB 284

Legislative bill overview

SB 284 sought to establish or clarify recreational customary use rights for Florida beaches, allowing the public to use beach areas for leisure activities based on historical usage patterns. The bill was introduced in January 2025 but ultimately died in the Judiciary Committee, though a companion measure (CS/SB 1622) passed and became law.

Why is this important

Beach access and customary use rights affect millions of Floridians and tourists annually, touching on property rights, public recreation, environmental access, and coastal governance. The resolution of these issues influences whether beachgoers can freely enjoy shorelines or face restrictions based on private property claims.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. public access: Balancing private beachfront property owners' rights against claims of public customary use rights based on historical patterns
  • Definition and enforcement: Determining what constitutes "customary use," how long such use must persist, and how to enforce these rights consistently
  • Coastal development pressure: Whether customary use protections might limit profitable development or restrict property owners' ability to exclude the public

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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