Submerged Lands Management

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Sovereignty submerged lands include, but are not limited to, tidal lands, islands, sandbars, shallow banks and lands waterward of the ordinary or mean high water line, beneath navigable fresh water or beneath tidally influenced waters.

The state of Florida acquired title to sovereignty submerged lands on March 3, 1845, by virtue of statehood. Sovereignty submerged lands include all submerged lands, title to which is held by the Board of Trustees (Governor and Cabinet) of the Internal Improvement Trust Fund.

The Submerged Section processes incoming correspondence related to local government issues for state-owned lands including:

Submerged land leases.
Easements.
Renewals.
Modifications.
Assignment to new upland owners.

The Florida Clean Marina Program is designed to bring awareness to marine facilities and boaters regarding environmentally friendly practices intended to protect and preserve Florida’s precious natural environment. Marinas, boatyards and marine retailers receive Clean designations by demonstrating a commitment to prescribed best management practices.

Read the rules that govern submerged lands at the Division of State Lands' Florida Statutes and Rules References.

Find out how to apply to use state-owned submerged lands by contacting your local district.

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Last Modified:

January 17, 2023 - 3:33pm

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The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is the state’s lead agency for environmental management and stewardship – protecting our air, water and land. The vision of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection is to create strong community partnerships, safeguard Florida’s natural resources and enhance its ecosystems.

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3900 Commonwealth Boulevard
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-3000 Public.Services@FloridaDEP.gov 850-245-2118

Submerged Lands Management

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