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On April 20th, 2017, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission approved revisions to the state’s bald eagle rule (68A-16.002, F.A.C.). The approved rule revisions eliminate the need for applicants to obtain both a state and federal permit for activities with the potential to take or disturb bald eagles or their nests. Under the approved revisions, only a federal permit is required. The rule revisions became effective June 22nd, 2017.

Eagle Permits

The FWC advises landowners to consult with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to determine if a federal permit is required when proposing land use activities within 660 feet of an eagle nest.

  • A USFWS permit is needed for activities with the potential to disturb nesting bald eagles, or to remove or “take” a bald eagle nest. You can review information about federal eagle permitting regulations.
  • The regional USFWS Migratory Bird Office can be reached directly at (404) 679-7070 or permitsR4MB@fws.gov for additional information about eagle permitting.

State and federal regulations, websites, and contacts, along with frequently asked questions have been compiled in the Resources and Contacts for Florida Eagles document.

USFWS Bald and Golden Eagle Management Page
A collection of information and key documents the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service uses with partners and stakeholders to manage bald and golden eagles under the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act and the Migratory Bird Treaty Act.

Definition of Permitting Terms
View a list of permitting terms and definitions as provided in the federal regulations. 

Disturbance (Incidental Take) permit application
Permit application for activities which may result in disturbance to nesting bald eagles, or take that is associated with, but not the purpose of, an activity.

Nest removal permit application
A federal permit for eagle nest take must be obtained to remove or destroy a bald eagle nest. See information about the conditions under which nest take permits are issued.

Scientific collecting permit application
Federal permit application for research and data collection involving bald eagles or their parts.

Code of Federal Regulations – Eagle Permits
Federal regulations for the take of bald eagles and their parts, nests, and eggs.