68B-24.0045. Importation of Spiny Lobster; Documentation and Other Requirements

(1) Documentation Requirements During Open Season – During the open season specified in subsection 68B-24.005(1), F.A.C., a person may possess wrung spiny lobster tails or possess spiny lobster in excess of the bag limit specified in subsection 68B-24.004(1), F.A.C., while on state waters, if such person is also in possession of appropriate receipt(s), bill(s) of sale, or bill(s) of lading to show that the spiny lobster were purchased in a foreign country and are entering the state in international commerce. Failure to maintain such documentation or to promptly produce same at the request of any duly authorized law enforcement officer shall constitute violation of this rule.

(2) Sale of Imported Spiny Lobster During the Closed Season, Documentation – Notwithstanding the provisions of Sections 379.367, F.S., spiny lobster tails that have been imported into Florida from a foreign country may be sold during the closed harvesting season of April 1 through August 5 of each year, if such spiny lobster tails are accompanied with the appropriate receipts(s), bill(s) of sale, or bill(s) of lading to show that the spiny lobster were harvested and purchased in a foreign country and are entering the state in international commerce. Such documentation shall accompany the lobster through retail or restaurant sale. Failure to maintain such documentation or to promptly produce same at the request of any duly authorized law enforcement officer shall constitute violation of this rule.

(3) Each spiny lobster imported pursuant to this rule shall comply with the minimum size requirements specified in subsection 68B-24.003(1), F.A.C., and the prohibitions relating to eggbearing spiny lobster specified in subsection 68B-24.007(1), F.A.C.

Specific Authority Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. Law Implemented Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. History–New 7-2-90, Amended 10-4-95, Formerly 46-24.0045, Amended 6-2-02.