By: Cyndi Disharoon REALTOR®
Summer is here. The fireworks are over. Your pets have settled back into their comfort and ease.
Now is also a time for commercial property owners to take a deep, calming breath.
On June 2, 2025, Governor Ron DeSantis signed Florida Senate Bill 322: Property Rights into law. This Bill authorizes, under specific conditions, a commercial property owner, or their authorized agent(s), to request law enforcement to immediately remove unlawful occupants (“squatters”) from the owner’s commercial, or residential, property.
Previously, removing squatters was a lengthy, expensive and time-consuming process. Now, Bill 322 streamlines the process, allowing property owners to reclaim their assets more efficiently—and immediately.
By enabling the swift removal of unlawful occupants, the Bill 322 helps property owners minimize, or avoid, potential financial loss or property damage.
Bill 322 also includes legal safeguards to protect both property owners and law enforcement in cases of wrongful removal. Additionally, it outlines specific criminal penalties for unauthorized occupancy and fraudulent listings—aimed at putting a full stop to the practice of teaching, or encouraging, squatting.
Now, let’s relax at the beach!
