FWC Gopher Tortoise Program: FWC Gopher Tortoise Program Website Permitting and Guidelines: Detailed guidelines for both developers and recipient site owners can be found on the FWC website.

Gopher Tortoise Recipient Sites

Recipient Sites

The gopher tortoise has been deemed “warranted but precluded” for listing under the federal Endangered Species Act, and is listed as a Threatened Species in the state of Florida. In 2007, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) implemented a rule eliminating the “take” of gopher tortoises. Gopher tortoises in the path of development must now be relocated to a permitted recipient site.

Recipient sites prevent the loss of tortoises on development sites, help retain the local or regional tortoise resource, and aid to habitat preservation.

Sites Currently Available:

Fort Atkinson Ranch Long Term Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site

Lafayette County, FL
1,326 Spaces Permitted

Submit GT Checklist

Gopher Tortoise Relocation FAQs

Additional ResourcesLore Camero2025-11-26T12:26:19-05:00

Additional Resources

FWC Gopher Tortoise Program: FWC Gopher Tortoise Program Website
Permitting and Guidelines: Detailed guidelines for both developers and recipient site owners can be found on the FWC website.

How the Relocation Process WorksLore Camero2025-11-26T12:25:57-05:00

How the Relocation Process Works

Survey & Permit: Developers survey the site for tortoises and apply for FWC relocation permits, which involves purchases GT spaces from an appropriate Gopher Tortoise Recipient Site.
Capture: Professional trappers capture the tortoises safely.
Transport: Tortoises are transported to the recipient site.
Release: Tortoises are released into their new habitat, which is monitored for their adjustment and well-being.

Florida Relocation Program OverviewLore Camero2025-11-26T12:25:37-05:00

Florida Relocation Program Overview

Objective: Protect and preserve gopher tortoise populations by relocating individuals from development areas to safe, managed habitats.
Process: Involves surveying development sites, obtaining permits, capturing and transporting tortoises, and releasing them at approved recipient sites.

Information for DevelopersLore Camero2025-11-26T12:25:00-05:00

Information for Developers

Legal Requirements: Developers must relocate gopher tortoises from construction areas to avoid illegal “take” under FWC regulations.
Finding a Site: Consult the FWC database or work with environmental consultants to identify suitable recipient sites.
Permits: Obtain necessary permits from the FWC before starting the relocation process.