Florida Just Took a Hard Line on Squatters

Here’s how the new law could protect Pembroke Pines landlords — short-term and long-term.

Author

Mike Ugarte
June 06, 2025 • Estimated Reading Time: 3 minutes

Gives Property Owners More Protection

Until now, squatters in Florida could claim tenant rights and delay removal for weeks or even months.

Starting July 1, that changes.

Governor DeSantis has signed a new law that lets homeowners file a sworn statement with law enforcement to remove illegal occupants without going through the court system.

For Pembroke Pines owners, especially those with vacant rentals or seasonal homes, it’s a major shift in how quickly you can respond.

So what does that mean here in Pembroke Pines?

🔗 Read the article here:
👉 Read the NBCMiami article here

What This Changes

The bill, HB 621, gives property owners the right to file a sworn affidavit with their local sheriff’s office if someone is occupying a home without permission.

Once that form is submitted, law enforcement is authorized to remove the individual from the property.

Key points in the law:

  • Immediate enforcement: The eviction process no longer applies when someone is unlawfully occupying a home without a valid lease. Sheriffs can act on an affidavit from the rightful owner.

  • Fraud prevention: It is now a criminal offense to present a false lease, deed, or other document in an attempt to claim rights to a property.

  • Damage penalties: Anyone who causes $1,000 or more in damage to a property while squatting can be charged with a felony.

  • Advertising restrictions: It is now illegal to falsely advertise or attempt to rent or sell property that someone does not own.

The bill was passed with strong legislative support and was signed into law during a press conference in Orlando.

📎 Want the full story?
👉 Read the full NBCMiami article here

Bottom line:

For Pembroke Pines property owners, whether you're a full-time resident, seasonal owner, or landlord, this law creates a more direct path to reclaiming control of your property if it’s unlawfully occupied.

Starting July 1, if someone is living in your home without a legal right to be there, the state now gives you the authority to act.