Permitting Programs
About Freshwater Aquatic Plants
Aquatic plants are a natural part of all Florida freshwater systems and play an important role in maintaining and protecting water quality, providing shoreline stabilization and ensuring balanced fish and wildlife populations. A healthy waterbody should have a variety of native aquatic plants, including submersed, emergent and floating-leaved plants. At times, invasive and/or noxious aquatic plants may reduce desirable native plant growth and impede the uses and functions of the waterbody. FWC’s Invasive Plant Management Section directs two permitting programs that authorize the management and control of aquatic plants. These programs are designed to ensure that while allowing users access, the beneficial native aquatic plants are protected and the activities conducted under a permit do not cause adverse impacts to Florida's freshwater systems. These programs are designed to balance for recreational use and aesthetics while protecting water quality and maintaining quality habitat for fish and wildlife.
Aquatic Plant Management Permits
Florida law (F.S. 369.20) requires all persons wanting to control or remove aquatic vegetation from waters of the state to obtain an Aquatic Plant Management Permit from the Commission unless an exemption for the activity has been provided in statute or rule (Chapter 68F-20). Visit the Aquatic Plant Management Permit page to learn more.
Triploid Grass Carp Permit
Triploid grass carp (TCG) are a restricted fish species and can only be possessed after a permit has been obtained from the Commission. TGC permits are issued to allow the stocking of grass carp into private lakes or ponds to control noxious aquatic plants pursuant to Chapter 68A-23.088, F.A.C. Visit the Triploid Grass Carp Permit page to learn more.
