|
Home :
FWC Permits: Protected Wildlife : Gopher Tortoise
Gopher Tortoise On-line Permitting
On-site Relocation of Five or Fewer Tortoises Only
 Welcome
to the gopher tortoise on-line permitting page. Gopher tortoises are
protected by state law, Chapter 68A - 27.005, FL Administrative Code.
You cannot relocate tortoises without first obtaining a permit from
this agency. The Five or Fewer Permit is intended for small parcels
slated for development where five or fewer tortoises are to be relocated
out of harm's way. Under this permit, you can only relocate tortoises
inside the property boundary where they currently occur. Off-site relocations
require an entirely
different
permit procedure.
You DO NOT need to apply for a gopher tortoise relocation permit
if you can avoid burrow entrances by 25 feet (see
Available Options). Avoiding burrows is less stressful to tortoises
than relocation and is often a simpler option for the landowner/homeowner.
To apply for a permit, click "Getting
Started" to read through some basic information about tortoise relocation
so you can obtain your user ID and password. Once you have your user
information, you can fill out an application form and submit it for
review. Requests for additional information and application status will
be posted on the web site (and e-mailed if you have an e-mail address).
When your application is approved, you can print your permit on-line.
To view the status of your application, click "Application
Status." Your application status will be shown (pending, request
for additional information, approved, denied, expired, or withdrawn).
Your approved permit can be printed from this site. You may also withdraw
or edit applications from this page. If your approved permit is at least 60 days old and not expired
you can also issue yourself a permit amendment for 90 days from this page.
Please note that
denied, expired, and withdrawn permits over 30 days old will no longer
be viewable on the web site.
To search permit records statewide, click "Search
Permits." Permit records and their status can be viewed.
Applications may still be submitted using the paper form, but cannot
be processed as quickly as electronic applications. This site aims to
provide applicants with a faster response time, but it is also up to
the applicant to provide timely responses to requests for additional
information.
Requests for additional information not responded to within
90 days will result in the application being automatically returned.
Online Permit Process:
Links to Additional Resources:
|