CS/HB 681 - Divers-Down Warning Devices

• Revises definitions of divers-down buoys, flags, and symbols; creates new term "divers-down warning device" to encompass various indicators used to signal submerged divers in Florida waters.

• Specifies minimum size requirements of 12 by 12 inches for divers-down symbols displayed from water and 20 by 24 inches for those displayed from vessels.

• Requires all divers to prominently display a divers-down warning device in the area where diving occurs, except in areas customarily used for swimming only; prohibits divers-down buoys from being used or displayed onboard vessels.

• Establishes 100-foot safety distance requirement around warning devices on rivers, inlets, and navigation channels, and 300-foot requirement on all other waters; vessels must proceed no faster than idle speed when approaching these zones.

• Effective date: July 1, 2016; violations are noncriminal infractions with $50 civil penalty.