Palm Beach Gardens Gopher Tortoise Protection Rules

Palm Beach Gardens residents planning land clearing or property development must obtain permits from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) before relocating protected gopher tortoises. FWC regulations require this step prior to any construction.

Gopher tortoises create extensive burrows, often reaching seven feet deep and 15 feet long, which provide shelter for themselves and other wildlife. Burrow openings typically appear half-moon shaped, with the curve at the top. The size of the opening can indicate the tortoise's size, while round openings often suggest an armadillo has taken over the burrow.

Adult gopher tortoises measure 9-11 inches long and weigh 7-9 pounds. Females mature and reproduce between 9 and 21 years old; males mature earlier. The breeding season runs from March to October, with nesting in May and June. Females lay an average of six eggs annually, but many hatchlings do not survive predation.

Habitat loss poses the greatest threat to gopher tortoises. Killing, harassing, or destroying these tortoises, their burrows, or their eggs is illegal, according to the FWC.

Residents who suspect illegal activity involving gopher tortoises can report it anonymously to the FWC’s Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922, or online at MyFWC.com/law/Alert. Information leading to an arrest may be eligible for a reward.

Property owners should consult a regional gopher tortoise conservation biologist before land clearing or development. Permit and relocation procedures are available at MyFWC.com/GopherTortoise. Depending on the permit, property owners may move tortoises themselves or hire an authorized agent.

The FWC South Region office, located at 8535 Northlake Boulevard in West Palm Beach, can provide assistance with wildlife concerns and can be reached at 561-625-5122.