Legal in Fla answers the question Floridians, snowbirds and new arrivals ask every day: is this legal in Florida? We read the Florida Statutes, explain them in plain English, and date every guide so you know how current it is.
Why we built Legal in Fla
Florida law surprises people. Recreational marijuana is still illegal, but you can carry a handgun without a permit. Your window tint can be darker than in California but not as dark as you might think. Many boaters need a boating education ID card, a 2025 law cracked down on plate covers and frames, and new laws arrive every July and October. Most search results come from law firm ads or old forum posts. We give the answer first and then the statute behind it.
What every guide includes
- A short answer that starts with yes, no or partly and names the Florida Statutes section.
- The details that change the answer: age, amount, place, timing and exceptions.
- Penalties stated as noncriminal infraction, misdemeanor or felony degree, with the ranges in chapter 775.
- Florida scenarios from Miami to the Panhandle.
- A last-checked date and a log of changes.
What we cover
- Cannabis, THC and Substances: medical marijuana cards, why recreational weed is still illegal, delta-8, THCA, kratom and alcohol.
- Driving and Vehicles: tint limits, the new license plate cover law, super speeders, car seats, no-fault PIP and the lemon law.
- Everyday Life and Your Rights: evictions and squatters, boating rules, the Halo law, pets, fireworks, recording calls and HOAs.
- Guns and Weapons: permitless carry, open carry after 2025, stand your ground, knives, FRT triggers and pepper spray.
- Marriage, Family and Relationships: common-law marriage, divorce, custody, the age of consent and the Romeo and Juliet law.
- Gambling and Betting: Hard Rock Bet and the Seminole compact, DraftKings, PrizePicks, Kalshi and online casinos.
- Abortion and Reproductive Rights: the six-week law, its exceptions, abortion pills and what the 2024 Amendment 4 vote changed.
- Work and Business: breaks, overtime, final pay, teen work hours, E-Verify and the cottage food law.
- Florida Legal News: new Florida laws and court rulings, with the date each change takes effect.
Who writes the guides
Guides are researched and edited by Juno Talbridge, the editor of Legal in Fla. Each one starts from the Florida Statutes, bill text and effective dates from the Legislature, the Florida Administrative Code, opinions of the Florida Supreme Court and District Courts of Appeal, and guidance from agencies such as FLHSMV, FDLE, the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and the Office of Medical Marijuana Use. Our editorial policy explains the process.
What we are not
Legal in Fla is an independent publisher, not a law firm, and reading a guide does not create an attorney-client relationship. If you are charged with a crime, facing a deadline or signing something important, talk to a lawyer licensed in Florida. The Florida Bar runs a Lawyer Referral Service that can help you find one.
Contact
Questions, corrections and topic ideas are welcome. We read every message.