Boaters must steer clear of Greer Island.
Longboat Key commissioners adopted an ordinance June 20 designating two restricted boating areas on Greer Island.
Greer Island is a spit of land at the north end of Longboat Key, commonly referred to as Beer Can Island, that has been a popular boater’s hangout.
The ordinance prohibits motorized vessels from anchoring or beaching on the sand at Greer Island.
The intent for the town is to protect bathers who wade or lounge in the shallow waters surrounding Greer Island.
Longboat Key staff worked with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission on the permitting for waterway buoys to indicate the boat prohibition and reported at a June 20 commission meeting that the designated areas will be marked and closed for the July 4 holiday.
Staff also indicated signs for Greer Island, including signs regarding warning of potential hazardous swimming conditions, will be placed by the holiday weekend.
Boaters who violate the restrictions face a $250 fine for a first offense and a $500 fine for a second or any subsequent offense. The ordinance revisions went into effect immediately and fine citations will be issued by Longboat Key Town Police beginning with the July 4 holiday.
The commission also plans an outreach campaign, informing businesses, homeowners and rental agents about the changes.
“The ability of staff and counsel and everyone to step up and pull this thing together before the Fourth of July has been heroic,” Longboat Key Mayor Ken Schneier said.