Florida Equine Laws on Ownership

Owning a horse can be a rewarding experience, but it can also be an expensive and problem-filled venture. Florida horse owners, however, should be aware of state laws that may help them.

  1. Equine Lemon Law

    • You've just purchased what you believe to be the perfect horse, but when you bring him home, you find he's not the horse you thought he was: He seems lame and his ground manners leave much to be desired. While you may feel you're stuck with an unusable horse, if you live in Florida, you may have legal recourse. A 2008 law requires sellers to disclose all medical and behavioral issues a horse may have prior to sale.

    Health Requirements

    • Any person bringing a horse into Florida must have a health certificate for that horse, verifying it is free of communicable diseases. In addition, all horses coming into the state must have a negative Coggins test taken within the last six months. The only exception is a foal under six months of age still on its dam.

    Liability Laws

    • All Florida horse owners should be aware of the state's equine liability law which states: "Under Florida law, an equine activity sponsor or equine professional is not liable for an injury to, or the death of, a participant in equine activities resulting from the inherent risks of equine activities." A sign listing this law should be prominently posted anywhere equine activities take place.