Did FWC pass a new rule to require mufflers?
FWC Commissioners did not pass a “rule,” but instead directed staff to implement an “enforcement protocol” for FWC officers relating to muffling airboat exhaust. Based on the scientific research, the protocol provides clarification and direction to law enforcement officers about the fact that flex-pipe alone does not meet the muffling standards found in statute. It directs officers to begin an educational effort aimed at informing airboat operators that automotive-style mufflers are required to be installed on the exhaust of airboats operated in Florida. Once the FWCs educational effort has been completed (including a direct mailing of information to everyone who has registered an airboat in Florida and information-posting on the Web), officers will begin issuing warnings and citations for violations.
