Florida Legislature Unanimously Passes Adverse Possession Reform Bill

Tallahassee, Fla. – This morning, by a unanimous vote, the Florida House of Representatives passed SB 1142/HB 927 Adverse Possession sponsored by Rep. Ken Roberson (R-Port Charlotte). This bill, which substantially reforms the law relating to adverse possession, was filed as a result of the ongoing abuse of the current adverse possession statute to the detriment of landowners throughout Florida.
Senator Paula Dockery (R-Lakeland), the Senate sponsor, stated, “The Senate passed this bill last month and I am very pleased that the House has shown by today’s vote that the members recognize the importance of this issue.”
Currently, Polk County has over 720 adverse possession filings, and many other counties have seen an increase in the number of filings. The abuse of this antiquated statute is creating tremendous hardships for property owners, tax collectors and property appraisers. This legislation will discourage abuse of the adverse possession process and improve the administration of these claims for the benefit of both record landowners and adverse possessors with legitimate claims.
“I am proud to sponsor legislation that will protect private property rights in Florida,” stated Rep. Roberson.
The legislation, which has passed both the House and the Senate, will now be sent to the Governor to be signed into law.