• Avoid littering on Florida waterways, it's illegal.litter sign image by Lena Gr??nwall from Fotolia.com
  
  Littering on Florida waterways is treated like any other form of littering and is punishable by fines and/or criminal prosecution. The amount and type of littering or dumping determines the penalty. Basic littering on a Florida waterway is punishable by standard litter laws, but when large amounts or hazardous materials are involved, the fines and penalties can be quite severe.
  
  

Florida's Litter Laws

• Litter laws in Florida are governed by the Florida Department of Environmental Control, which also handles the state's waste management and recycling programs. Florida Statutes, sections 403.704, 403.413, 775.082 and 775.083 are the primary sources governing Florida's litter laws.
  
  

Penalties

• Depending on the type of litter, jail time is possible.jail in calico ghost town, arizona image by Albo from Fotolia.com
  
  Florida law states that litter, " If not exceeding 15 pounds or 27 cubic feet," carries a fine of $50 dollars and community service may be required. If the amount is between 15 and 500 pounds (27 to 100 cubic feet), and is not commercially related, it is then punishable with a first degree misdemeanor. (imprisonment not exceeding one year) The fine can be up to $5,000 and community service will be required.
  
  

Felony Litter

• Felony litter fines can be costly in Florida.money image by Horticulture from Fotolia.com
  
  When litter exceeds 500 pounds or 100 cubic feet, it is now considered a third degree felony. Also included is any litter considered hazardous waste. A third degree felony is, "punishable by imprisonment not exceeding five years, a fine not exceeding $5,000, or both." When the litter is hazardous waste, the offender may be ordered by the court to pay for any cleanup or damages. If the litter is non-hazardous, the offender can be ordered to, "remove or render harmless the litter," and to repair any property damage.