Once this isn't the current topic, and the issue has been settled, I'd expect some areas to have anchoring restrictions. But will they really be enforced i wonder?
I think there will be some enforced, simply because the homeowners complaining will call for enforcement. It's my hope that the final results go both ways in creating anchorages and moorages and in creating rules that both sides can live with.
I find the derelict vessel law to be far more important and the way the one being considered right now has been watered down, I see very little likelihood of enforcement.
I think the state has overall moved responsibly, just some people won't accept that. They created pilot sites. They then said they wanted to see that project completely through to 2017 before making further recommendations. Again, some want immediate and far reaching solutions.
When we purchased in Fort Lauderdale in 2012 there was one area we chose not to purchase because of the number of boats anchored. We didn't mind the look, but didn't want to have to go through that every time in and out. My problem is why purchase in such a situation and then feel it must change. WYSIWYG.
We have an anchorage close to our home and it's never a problem. The anchoring in Middle River, which is part of the bill, is very close to us as well. We saw it before we bought here and nothing has changed. There have been some blow ups though when local enforcement has asked boats to move in the area near the park. Note, I didn't say to leave, just to move a little. I do not know the specifics beyond that and have no first hand knowledge.
In my opinion, as a homeowner, I don't consider us to have an anchoring problem in our area. I do consider derelict boats a problem nearly everywhere there is boating in the country and because Florida has more boating, it's more of an issue, but totally separate from anchoring.
I wish the pro-anchor side would come up with their own recommendation at some point, perhaps at the completion of the pilot. This is a pre-emptive move I'd like to see. I do believe there will be some restrictions and who better to come up with a reasonable plan than those who do anchor. Some sites and publications have campaigned diligently against various proposed laws but I haven't seen their alternative proposal.
And I am strongly opposed to a piece meal solution of the state legislature passing a provision to cover a specific anchorage.