I am curious as well.
It's obvious the fees and time dedication to be on the up-and-up are very high. Getting a Captain's license to properly run a passenger for hire operation, such as the Stiltsville, is a tedious and moderately costly process.
I know because I am in process right now with the Coast Guard.
I can't imagine what dockage fees must be in the Keys, they are already crazy here.

I have heard a few of you guys mention city permits and other hoops you have to jump through to be legit as well. Is that just in the Keys you have to do that?
Or is this something instructors everywhere in FL have to do?

Is it technically not lawful to give kiting lessons without particular city permits?