Last Updated: July 11, 2025.
Table of Contents
- Florida's New Law on Squatter's Rights: Overview
- Lawmakers Introduce 2024 Squatters Bill Florida (HB 621)
- Legislators in Florida Took a Stand on Squatting Laws
- What Is a Squatter in Florida?
- Do Squatters Have Rights in Florida?
- Florida Squatting Laws: Adverse Possession & OCEAN Rule
- New Florida Squatter Law (HB 621): Key Highlights
- How to Prevent Squatters in Florida
- Proposed Squatter Laws Across the United States
- How Property Managers Can Help with Squatters
- Florida Senate Bill 322 (SB 322): Strengthening Property Rights
- New U.S. Squatter Laws in 2025
- Who Can Remove a Squatter Under Florida's New Law?
- How to Legally Remove a Squatter in Florida (Step-by-Step)
- Penalties for Squatters in Florida
- Download the Florida Squatter Removal Affidavit (PDF)
- Squatting vs. Tenant Rights: What’s the Difference?
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Florida's New Law on Squatter's Rights Was a Fight for Private Property Rights
Florida property owners have long struggled with squatters—unauthorized people living in homes or real property without permission. Squatting can lead to lost rent, property damage, and legal headaches.
Before 2024, it was difficult to remove these unauthorized guests because of unclear local laws. Police often said it was a “civil matter,” and owners had to go through long, frustrating court processes.
Lawmakers Change Florida Squatter Laws: Introducing The 2024 Squatters Bill Florida
This shifted with the new anti squatter law, known as Florida House Bill 621 in 2024. Florida Statute Chapter 83 of Florida’s landlord-tenant laws does not directly address this issue. However, the new law helps property owners regain control of their homes more easily through legal action.
We will go over the topic as a whole with a focus on:
Florida law squatter's right
The eviction process in Florida
Adverse Possession Florida law and legal claims
How to remove a squatter without legal title
Let's examine this new legislation more closely and understand its significance for unoccupied property.
Legislators in the State of Florida Took a Stand with Squatting Laws with New Florida Squatter Bill
To protect property owners, the Florida Legislature passed House Bill 621. This new law started on July 1, 2024. Often called the Florida squatters’ law, this legislation strengthens private property rights and sets a precedent for other states. Created to abolish squatters rights as we know it.
During the 2024 Legislative Session, lawmakers passed HB 621 Florida. This law makes it quicker to remove people who live in a home without paying rent or owning it legally. It empowers law enforcement to act quickly in benefit of the true owner and helps clarify how to deal with squatters.
The bill, called “Property Rights,” got support from both parties. This shows how serious the squatting problem is for Florida property owners.
Importantly, this law does not apply if the occupant had legal permission to live there at some point.
Florida is taking the lead, but this issue is spreading across the U.S. More states will likely suggest similar laws in their 2025 sessions.
Thanks to HB 621, property owners have clear rules to protect their rights. They can now act against illegal occupants and know how to legally evict unauthorized residents.
What is a Squatter in Florida?
To define squatter, it is someone who lives in an empty or abandoned residential dwelling. They do this without the owner's permission and refuse to leave. This is illegal because they have no legal right to be there.
You might think someone is just trespassing, but it can be more complicated, especially in Florida. You should think about the bigger picture. You may need to find a legal way to remove them.
However, in some cases, squatters can claim adverse possession. This legal rule allows someone to gain ownership if they live on the property long enough and pay property taxes.
If the person had permission to stay at some point, like a former tenant, different rules apply. All legal disputes are different, based on the facts. Laws vary by state, but the idea of adverse possession comes from old English law.
Florida Squatting Rights: The Law on Squatters Rights Florida
Do Squatter's Have Rights in FL?
Florida squatting rights are a hot topic. People ask us all the time, "Why do squatters have rights?" Squatters rights comes down to a legal concept called adverse possession. Where is squatting legal you ask? Lets find out.
Under Florida law, Chapter 95, Section 95.18, a person can claim ownership of property. This means they can say they own something even if they do not have legal ownership.
To do this, the adverse possesor must meet certain requirements. These include living on the property openly and continuously. In some cases, they may also need to be paying taxes.
Other states, like Oregon, also have similar laws based on adverse possession. We’ll explore how different states handle this later in the blog.
Florida Squatting Laws: How to Claim Squatters’ Rights Through Florida Adverse Possession Law
Squatting laws in Florida are easy to understand, but their rights in Florida have changed with the new state law. To claim yourself a legal owner through adverse possession in Florida, you must meet certain legal requirements. A helpful way to remember these is the acronym OCEAN:
Open and Notorious Possession: You must use the property in a way that is clear and obvious. The actual owner should notice it if they take a look.
Continuous Possession: One must live on the property without stopping for a set number of years. This is usually 7 years in Florida, over 10 years in New York City, and at least 15 years in Texas.
Exclusive Possession: Only you control the property. Sharing it with the owner or others usually disqualifies your claim.
Actual Possession: You must physically use the land—like living there, building, or farming. Merely claiming ownership is insufficient.
Hostile Possession: You occupy the land without the owner’s permission. This doesn't imply you’re being forceful—it simply indicates that the owner did not consent to it.
Adverse possession law is common law in Florida will set the tone for the rest of the United States in the years to come. Taking possession of the property wont be as easy with the new legal processes.
An Overview of Florida Law Squatters Rights & the New Squatter Law Florida
On March 27, 2024, Governor Ron DeSantis signed HB 621 into law. This law allows property owners and managers to quickly remove squatters who do not leave the property. It also gives law enforcement clear steps to take when dealing with unauthorized occupants without a legal document. Squatting cases can now come with criminal penalties.
Florida Squatters Rights Laws & Squatter Rules - Key Highlights of HB 621:
Faster Evictions: Owners can now remove squatters without a lease or legal rights. In some cases, squatters must leave within 24 hours of notice.
Protection from Property Damage: If they damage the home, owners can now seek payment for repairs.
Stricter Penalties: Squatting has become a major offense. Repeat offenders or organized groups can face up to 20 years in prison.
This law is a significant advancement in protecting private property in the State of Florida.
Preventing Squatters in Florida - Tips for Property Owners
Here are tips for keeping squatter's away from your property and to avoid a squatter eviction:
Regular Visits: Regularly visit or inspect your property to prevent illegal occupation.
Secure the Property: Lock all entry points and consider installing security cameras.
Engage Neighbors: Ask neighbors or HOA to watch your property if it is vacant, and to report anything suspicious.
Post “No Trespassing” Signs: These written notice signs can support your case if squatters try to claim adverse possession.
Hire a Property Management Firm: Professional property managers can help monitor your property through their services.
How Property Managers Can Help with Squatters
Allegiant Management Group specializes in professional property management across Central Florida—and we have real-world experience handling squatter-related issues quickly and legally.
If someone is occupying your rental property without permission, time is critical. Evictions or unlawful detainer actions can take more than 30 days if not handled correctly. That’s where our team steps in.
Here’s how we support property owners facing squatters:
Legal Support: We coordinate with skilled attorneys to initiate legal action and remove unauthorized occupants swiftly and effectively.
Routine Property Inspections: Proactive inspections reduce the risk of squatters by catching unauthorized activity early.
Thorough Tenant Screening: We perform detailed background checks on all prospective tenants to reduce the risk of lease violations.
- Vacant Property Monitoring: Our Vacant Home Watch service regularly checks and secures unoccupied homes.
Let Allegiant Management Group handle the stress of dealing with unwanted occupants. From issuing notices to coordinating legal action, we work to protect your investment and uphold your property rights.
“This law was a necessary step forward in protecting private property rights. For too long, owners were left powerless against unlawful occupancy. Now, they have a clear and enforceable path to reclaim what’s rightfully theirs.”
— Maria Napolitano, Broker & Co-Founder, Allegiant Management Group
Florida SB 322 – Strengthening Rights
Starting July 1, 2024, Florida's new Squatter Law (HB 621) helps property owners take back their property faster. This law allows for faster removal of unauthorized occupants under certain conditions—without waiting for a full eviction process.
Starting January 1, 2025, landlords and property owners must share ownership details. This is due to the Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) Reporting Rule. Staying compliant is key—and our team is here to help you navigate every step.
New U.S. Squatter Laws in 2025
On July 1, 2024, new laws will make it easier to remove unlawful occupants. In 2025, Florida lawmakers introduced Senate Bill 322 (SB 322) to strengthen private property rights.
This bill focuses on protecting residential and commercial property owners from unauthorized use of their land or buildings. Under SB 322:
Property owners can take legal action faster when someone occupies their property without consent.
It clarifies that unauthorized persons do not gain legal rights simply by occupying a property.
It supports enforcement of trespass laws, distinguishing between legitimate tenants and individuals unlawfully squatting.
The goal of SB 322 is clear. Florida will not allow illegal occupation of properties. The state will also not accept squatter misuse of the legal system.
This legislation, alongside HB 621, empowers landlords, investors, and homeowners to act swiftly and avoid lengthy, costly legal proceedings.
🔒 SB 322 is a win for those who support property rights in Florida. It helps keep squatting and unauthorized possession under control.
A modern infographic titled “SB 322 – Strengthening Property Rights in Florida.” The infographic explains the 2025 Florida Senate Bill 322, which enhances legal protections for property owners. Key points include: (1) allowing faster legal action against unauthorized occupants, (2) clarifying that unlawful occupants do not gain legal rights, and (3) supporting enforcement of trespass laws. Each point is paired with icons—a gavel, a verified user, and a house—within rounded blocks and bold headers for easy readability.
New U.S. Squatter Laws in 2025
In 2025, many U.S. states made new squatter laws. These laws help protect property owners and make it easier to evict unauthorized occupants.
Florida, Texas, Georgia, New York, and West Virginia passed laws. These laws limit squatter rights and protect property owners. They also make it clear that squatters are not legal tenants.
Florida’s House Bill 621 starts on July 1, 2025. It lets law enforcement remove squatters quickly, without a long eviction process. New York removed the 30-day loophole that previously granted tenancy rights to squatters.
n Georgia, the new law requires squatters to show proof of legal occupancy within three days—or face arrest. Texas expanded sheriff authority to remove squatters immediately and made fraudulent lease claims a criminal offense.
The 2025 squatter law updates show a growing focus on protecting real estate investors. They also aim to improve rental property rules and speed up the resolution of illegal occupancy cases.
Your Property. Your Rights. Protected.
Contact Allegiant Management Group today. Learn how we help landlords with squatter issues. Stay informed about legal changes in Florida’s rental market.
Call us to:
Protect your property.
Partner with experienced professionals.
Let us take the worry off your plate.
How to Legally Remove a Squatter in Florida (Step-by-Step)
Florida's new law (HB 621) allows certain people to remove squatters quickly. They can do this without a long court process. To be eligible, you must:
- Be the legal property owner or authorized agent
- Provide proper identification
- File a notarized affidavit with the sheriff
Important: Tenants, neighbors, or HOA members cannot ask for removal under this law. They must be the legal owner or act for one.
How to Legally Remove a Squatter in Florida (Step-by-Step)
- Contact your local sheriff’s office and request the squatter affidavit form.
- Complete and notarize the affidavit, confirming the individual is unlawfully occupying your property.
- Submit the affidavit and valid ID to the sheriff.
- The sheriff will then post a 24-hour notice for the squatter to vacate.
- If the squatter refuses, law enforcement may remove them without a court order.
This process applies to residential properties only and does not apply to landlord-tenant disputes.
Penalties for Squatters in Florida
Squatting in Florida is now classified as a criminal act with severe consequences:
- Second-degree misdemeanor: Refusing to leave after a sheriff's notice
- Felony charges: If squatters falsify a lease, claim ownership, or cause property damage
- Restitution: May be ordered to pay damages to the property owner
These penalties aim to protect private property rights and deter future unlawful occupation.
Download the Florida Squatter Removal Affidavit (PDF)
Most county sheriff offices now provide downloadable versions of the affidavit required to remove a squatter. Here are a few examples:
Tip: Always check your county’s official website or contact their office directly, as requirements may vary slightly.
Squatting vs. Tenant Rights: What’s the Difference?
One common question property owners have is how to know if someone is a squatter or a real tenant. Here's a quick comparison:
Squatter | Tenant |
|---|---|
No lease or rental agreement | Signed lease or verbal agreement with proof |
Entered property without permission | Granted access by owner/agent |
Subject to sheriff removal via affidavit | Must go through formal eviction process |
If you're unsure of the situation, consult with a licensed property manager or attorney before taking legal action.
Watch Our Video: The New Squatters Law Florida
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is a Squatter?
A squatter is a person who occupies land or property without legal permission, ownership, or a lease agreement. Squatters may attempt to claim ownership through adverse possession if they meet specific legal requirements over a period of time.
What is squatting?
Squatting means living in a building or on land that is empty or abandoned. They do this without legal permission. Squatters can live there without paying rent or asking the property owner for permission. They often say they need a place to stay or have housing rights.
What is squatters rights?
Squatters rights let a person gain legal ownership of property through adverse possession. This happens when they occupy the property openly, exclusively, and continuously without permission. In Florida, people must meet certain legal conditions during this 7-year period.
What is the new law in Florida about squatters?
In 2024, Florida passed a law allowing property owners to remove squatters without a court order. Owners can ask law enforcement to quickly remove unauthorized occupants. This applies to those who entered unlawfully and refuse to leave. This process skips the long eviction steps.
Why do squatters have rights?
Squatters have rights to encourage landowners to monitor and use their property and to prevent land from remaining idle. Adverse possession laws reward people who use land continuously and openly without challenge. This encourages productive land use and helps resolve long-term occupancy issues legally.
Why are squatters rights a thing?
Squatters rights exist to prevent land from remaining unused and to encourage property upkeep. They also protect individuals who occupy property openly and continuously over time, deterring absentee owners from neglect. These laws support efficient land use and resolve disputes through legal possession.
Can you turn off electricity on squatters?
No, you cannot legally turn off electricity to remove squatters. Disrupting utilities constitutes a “self-help” eviction and is illegal in Florida. Use proper legal channels to remove unauthorized occupants.
How can you remove a squatter?
To remove a squatter, serve a formal eviction notice. Then, file an unlawful detainer action in court. Finally, obtain a writ of possession. Law enforcement must execute the writ to legally remove the squatter from the property.
How to claim squatters' rights in Florida?
Claim squatters’ rights in Florida by occupying a property openly, continuously, and exclusively for 7 years. You must pay property taxes during this period and treat the property as your own. After 7 years, file an adverse possession claim with the county property appraiser.
How to evict a squatter in Florida?
Evict a squatter in Florida by filing an unlawful detainer action in county court. Serve the squatter with a summons. If they don’t leave, request a court order for removal. Law enforcement can then enforce the eviction after the court’s judgment.
What is Florida House Bill 322?
Florida House Bill 322 (2025) boosts private property rights. It raises penalties for trespassing and helps law enforcement respond faster to repeat intrusions. It affirms property owners’ authority to remove unauthorized persons and supports legal action against organized trespassing groups.
Disclaimer: This article provides information only and does not intend to serve as legal advice. Please consult an attorney for any legal advice regarding squatting issues.
