Property owners in Florida will soon have stronger legal backing to reclaim their commercial spaces from squatters and unauthorized occupants, thanks to two new laws recently signed by Governor Ron DeSantis.
Aimed at commercial and hospitality properties, these measures streamline the removal of non-paying individuals from hotels and other commercial spaces. One law grants police the authority to remove hotel guests who haven’t paid, following written notice. The other, Senate Bill 322 (SB 322), empowers commercial property owners—or their designated agents—to request immediate removal of unlawful occupants by the local sheriff, without the need for lengthy court proceedings.
Governor DeSantis emphasized the need to protect property rights, pointing to other states that, in his view, have become too lenient on squatting. Under SB 322, if specific conditions are met, law enforcement is authorized to arrest unauthorized individuals occupying commercial property.
These legislative changes mark a significant shift in how Florida addresses squatting, reinforcing the rights of property owners while allowing law enforcement to take swifter action.