Diving Regulations

All persons diving in Florida waters must display a divers-down flag. Diving means swimming at or below the surface of the water while equipped with a mask and snorkel, or any other underwater breathing apparatus.
The size of divers-down flags displayed on vessels must be at least 20 inches by 24 inches, and a stiffener is required to keep the flag unfurled. Dive flags carried on floats must be at least 12 inches by 12 inches.
Divers-down flags on vessels must be displayed above the vessel’s highest point so that the flag’s visibility is not obstructed in any direction.
Divers must make reasonable efforts to stay within 300 feet of a divers-down flag on open waters (all waterways other than rivers, inlets, or navigation channels) and within 100 feet of a flag within rivers, inlets, or navigation channels.
When divers are out of the water, a dive flag may not be displayed.
Vessel operators must make a reasonable effort to maintain a distance of at least 300 feet from divers-down flags on open waters and at least 100 feet from flags on rivers, inlets or navigation channels. Vessels approaching divers-down flags closer than 300 feet in open water and 100 feet in rivers, inlets and navigation channels must slow to idle speed.

Vessel operators are responsible for operating their vessel in a reasonable and prudent manner with regard to the presence of a divers-down flag so as not to endanger people or property. Failure to operate responsibly is considered reckless operation of a vessel, which is a first degree misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $1,000 and/or up to six months in jail.
Divers must make a reasonable effort to stay within 100 feet of the divers-down flag in rivers, inlets or navigation channels and within 200 feet on all waters other than rivers, inlets or navigation channels.
Vessels may approach within 100 feet or 300 feet of a divers-down flag at idle speed.