Gopher tortoise protection

Gopher tortoise burrows provide she lter from extreme hot and cold temperatures and are a safe place from predators.

For in-depth information on gopher tortoises, see our gopher tortoise informational page.

The purpose of the Gopher Tortoise Protection Ordinance is to protect the threatened gopher tortoise (Gopherus polyphemus) and gopher tortoise burrows, while recognizing the rights of property owners to use their lands in a manner consistent with the rules, policies and guidelines of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the county.

An FWC permit or compliance with FWC approved guidelines is required for specific actions that may impact gopher tortoises and their burrows. Permits will be issued based upon whether issuance would further management plan goals and objectives. See also our Environmental Permitting page.

To document sightings of gopher tortoises and their burrows, go to FWC Tortoise Sighting page.

Remember: The gopher tortoise is listed as a threatened species. Please do not harm, harass, handle or feed the gopher tortoise. Please DO NOT TRESPASS to get this information. Do not disturb gopher tortoise burrows. It is illegal to take, harm or harass this species under rule 68A – 27.005 of the Florida Administration Code. Any person who violates this provision is guilty of a misdemeanor of the second degree under Florida Law Chapter 372.0725. If you witness a violation, please call the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission at 1-888-404-FWCC.

Quick links

Gopher Tortoise Protection Ordinance [PDF]

Gopher tortoise habitat map  [PDF]

Gopher tortoise fact sheet  [PDF]

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's Gopher Tortoise Management Plan

You must have the Acrobat Reader to view and print pdf files. If you do not have the Acrobat Reader, you may download it from here.

To learn more and view ways you can help, please see the Florida Fish and Wildlife's Gopher Tortoise page.