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Council adopts waterways ordinance to align with state law, reaffirms no‑wake rules
Summary
On second reading the Wellington Village Council adopted Ordinance 2025-22 (5-0), amending Chapter 24 to remove local restrictions on fuel type to comply with Senate Bill 1388 while reaffirming existing no-wake and low-speed provisions and prohibitions on jet skis in specified waterways.
On Aug. 26 the Village Council approved Ordinance 2025-22 (second reading) amending Chapter 24 of Wellington's Code of Ordinances to remove local restrictions on fuel type for watercraft and to reaffirm the village's no-wake and low-speed requirements. Staff said the change responds to Senate Bill 1388, which prevents municipalities from restricting watercraft by energy source.
Mister Stillings (staff) explained the ordinance "addresses that prohibition" imposed by state legislation and retains local authority to regulate unsafe watercraft behavior, such as prohibiting jet skis in specified areas and enforcing no-wake zones. Council debate was brief; staff confirmed no changes had been made since the ordinance's first reading.
During discussion the presiding official noted the practical effect: "we're stuck having to, at least for now, allow the use of gasoline powered engines on Lake Wellington," underscoring that the amendment was compelled by state law rather than local policy preference.
Councilman moved to approve the ordinance and a second was recorded; the council adopted Ordinance 2025-22 on second reading by voice vote, recorded as passing 5-0. The ordinance provides a conflicts clause, severability language and an effective date; staff said it affirms existing local speed and use restrictions to preserve safety while aligning with the new state statute.
