What Florida Law Requires of Registered Sex Offenders
In Florida, individuals convicted of certain sex offenses must abide by strict residence restrictions in addition to registration requirements. One such statute, Florida Statute 775.215, prohibits some sex offenders from establishing or maintaining a residence within 1,000 feet of a school, child care facility, park, or playground when the victim was under 16 at the time of the offense. The Florida Senate+2Online Sunshine+2
These rules are aimed at protecting children and vulnerable populations, but the legal consequences for non-compliance can be severe for offenders.
Key Elements of the Unlawful Residency Offense
To be charged under Florida Statute 775.215, the prosecutor must prove several components, including:
- A qualifying conviction (for example, sexual battery, lewd or lascivious conduct with a minor) where the victim was under 16. Roger P. Foley+1
- That the defendant resides within the prohibited radius (1,000 feet) of a protected zone such as a school, child care facility, park or playground. Online Sunshine
- The proximity is measured in a straight line — not by walking or driving route. The Law Offices of Robert David Malove
For offenders subject to this statute, even if the prohibited zone (e.g., a school or playground) was built after they moved in, there is sometimes a legal defence available under certain circumstances. Roger P. Foley+1
Penalties and Consequences
Violating Florida’s unlawful residency statute can result in significant penalties. Depending on the specific offense and prior convictions, the violation may range from a first-degree misdemeanor (up to 1 year in jail and fines) to a third-degree felony (up to 5 years in prison and higher fines). Roger P. Foley
Beyond criminal penalties, the restriction also affects where the offender can live, work, and move — creating long-term collateral consequences that may impact housing, employment, family relationships, and eligibility for relief. Chapman Criminal Defense Firm+1
Why Offenders Often Face Housing Challenges
Strict residency restrictions – especially when coupled with local ordinances that expand the prohibited zone beyond the 1,000-foot state minimum – can make finding lawful housing extremely difficult for registered sex offenders. One report noted that some Florida counties increased the buffer to 2,500 feet, leaving few available residences that comply with the law. Thomas & Paulk+1
When housing options are limited, offenders can become transient or homeless, which itself raises additional legal risks and complications under the registration and supervision regime. OPPAGA
How an Experienced Defense Attorney Can Help
If you face an unlawful residency charge under Florida’s sex-offender laws, it is crucial to seek skilled legal representation immediately. Attorney A. Randall Haas has decades of experience defending serious criminal matters in South Florida, including sex-offender cases. He can assess whether the residency zone applies in your case, challenge the government’s measurement or zoning evidence, and evaluate your options for mitigating the long-term impact of a conviction.
Because these cases often involve complex facts — such as the date the prohibited zone was established, whether the offender moved before or after that establishment, and how local ordinances apply — you need counsel who can dig into zoning records, registration history, and constitutional issues.
Protecting Your Future — Get Skilled Legal Representation
A violation of unlawful residency by a sex offender can affect more than just your freedom today—it can affect where you live, how you work, and your entire future. Don’t let one miscalculation about your residence cost you profoundly.
📞 Call A. Randall Haas today at (954) 763-9210 for a confidential consultation. Your situation demands someone who understands how sex-offender restrictions operate in the courtroom and in everyday life.