Superintendent's Compendium

Title 36 of the Code of Federal Regulations is the listing of laws related to national parks. Section 1.5 allows park superintendents to establish visiting hours, designate closures of areas and activities, and impose certain limits. Such regulations are referred to as the Superintendent's Compendium and this document is updated regularly.

SUPERINTENDENT’S COMPENDIUM

Approved by Sarah J. Hopson, Superintendent
Date: September 17, 2025

CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS TITLE 36, CHAPTER 1
Compendium of Designations, Closures, Requests, Requirements, and Other Restrictions Imposed Under the Discretionary Authority of the Superintendent.

In accordance with applicable law and policy, and pursuant to the delegated authorities provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter 1 (“36 CFR”), the following compendium actions apply to all lands and waters administered by the National Park Service (NPS) within the boundaries of Biscayne National Park. This document is the written compilation of designations, closures, permit requirements and other restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the Superintendent, as required by 36 CFR 1.7(b). Violating any provision in this Compendium may result in criminal penalties under 36 CFR 1.3.

The compendium actions in this document apply in addition to all other laws that apply to lands and waters administered by the NPS within the boundaries of Biscayne National Park. These include:

Regulations in 36 CFR and other CFR titles such as Title 43, which contains regulations that apply on public lands administered by the Department of the Interior. The current version of the CFR can be found at www.ecfr.gov. Click on “Title 36” and then “Chapter 1” to access 36 CFR.
Statutes codified in U.S. Code, in particular provisions in Titles 16 and 54.

This Compendium is organized by the sections in 36 CFR that give the Superintendent discretionary authority to take the compendium action. Written determinations that explain why each compendium action is necessary appear in this document in italicized print.

36 CFR 1.5 – VISITING HOURS, PUBLIC USE LIMITS, CLOSURES AND AREA DESIGNATIONS, GENERAL RESTRICTIONS

A. Visiting Hours:

The public use area of Biscayne National Park on the mainland tract known as Convoy Point is closed to all visitor use from 5:30 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. seven (7) days per week, 365 days of the year, except when a special use permit exists and/or an approved operation and/or event is scheduled and/or emergency circumstances.

Convoy Point is managed primarily as a day use area with no nighttime use due to limited lighting availability. At Convoy Point, cooperating association and NPS equipment and buildings are unattended and or at risk during nighttime hours of theft, vandalism and otherwise unauthorized use. This can occur despite the closure and would be less controllable if the area were completely open.
Unless otherwise authorized or because of emergency circumstances, the docks at Adams Key in Caesar Creek are closed to any mooring or docking of non-NPS vessels from sunset to sunrise. Adams Key is closed to public use during these hours as well.

Adams Key is open to the public for day-use only and is not an authorized overnight camping area. This restriction is necessary since there is limited dockage space available as well as whips used to keep vessels from banging up against the dock. Vessels tied to the dock can be thrown into the concrete and wood structure by boat wakes created by other vessels traveling through Caesar Creek, which is a main navigable channel, causing damage to government and personal property.
Unless otherwise authorized or because of emergency circumstances, University Dock on Elliott Key is closed to any mooring or docking of non-NPS vessels from sunset to sunrise.

University dock does not lead to any developed areas on Elliott Key and is therefore closed to mooring and docking of non-NPS vessels from sunset to sunrise.

B. Public Use Limits In Reference To Vehicle Parking Restrictions:

The area of park road directly in front of the Dante Fascell Visitor Center at Convoy Point is closed to any vehicle parking and/or stopping and is designated as a fire lane. The only exception is the City of Homestead National Parks Trolley which has a stop located in this area. When in operation, this vehicle will stop/stand as scheduled.
The grassy area adjacent to the outbound and inbound gates next to the turn circle is closed to any vehicle parking and/or stopping. These grassy areas have “no parking” signs on them.
No parking on the grassy area on either side of the park’s main road. Vehicle parking on the shoulders of the entrance/main road at Convoy Point is prohibited.
Parking on the administrative/headquarters building is for authorized vehicles only unless authorized as overflow event parking. While in use as an overflow parking area this area remains closed to recreational use.
Parking in the six marked “island residents only” spaces at Convoy Point is prohibited by any other person other than an island resident or a guest of an island resident.
Any type of commercial bus will not be left with its engine running within the parking lots at Convoy Point for more than five minutes.

This restriction is necessary for the protection and safety of our visitors and resources while ensuring visitor enjoyment of the park.

Grassy Turn Circle Near Outbound & Inbound Gates & Convoy Point Main Road: Parking in these areas poses threats to traffic flow as well as certain ground-nesting birds and land crabs. Heat from vehicle undersides can ignite dry grasses and vegetation.

Road Portion Directly in Front of Dante Fascell Visitor Center: This area is closed to stopping or standing because it is a designated fire lane.

Administrative/Headquarters Building: These facilities are closed to anyone other than park staff, volunteers, contractors, and those on official park business. There are no public services available.

Island Residents Parking: Several parking spaces have been designated for use by park’s island residents only. They are marked as such.

C. Closures And Area Designations (See Appendix A for map):
This restriction is necessary to safeguard both our visitors and resources, ensuring a positive and enjoyable experience in the park. The closed areas are off-limits to all public access—except for individuals with a special use permit—to protect park visitors, wildlife, and vital sensitive natural and cultural resources.

1. For the protection of artifacts, the portion of Biscayne National Park known as the Legare Anchorage within the area bounded by latitude 25°30 N and 25°29 N and longitude 80°08 W and 80°07 W is closed to the following activities:

Scuba diving, snorkeling, swimming, floating, and any activity that involves placing persons or equipment, on, in or under water. However, hook and line “drift” fishing is allowed.
Use of any underwater viewing device including, but not limited to, face masks, glass bottom boats, glass bottom buckets or cameras.
Anchoring any vessel at any time unless an emergency.

2. All Stiltsville structures are closed to the public/visitors except those individuals who possess a special use permit(s) issued by Biscayne National Park allowing for that use.

3. All residences at Convoy Point, Elliott Key, and Adams Key are closed to public use. This includes the housing unit itself and the area underneath and within 100’ from the house.

All residences located at Convoy Point, Elliott Key, and Adams Key are closed to the public for the safety, security, and privacy of the residences and their guests. Designated administrative areas of the park are open daily during normal business hours only. For safety and security reasons, these areas are closed to the public from 5:30 p.m. to 7:00 a.m.

4. Jones Lagoon is closed to all motorized vessels.

5. Arsenicker Key, West Arsenicker Key, Mangrove Key, the small islands containing nesting waterbirds within Jones Lagoon, Soldier Key, and the waters within 300’ of these islands are closed to public use.

The hatching and fledging of young birds are activities easily disrupted by the presence of humans. Disruption of nesting activity and overt or inadvertent damage to habitat or anything causing mortality of adult or young birds would have far-reaching effects on the ecosystem, and to other visitors’ enjoyment of the variety of bird species found in the park.

6. Swan Key, Fowey Rocks Lighthouse, and the rocky area past the jetty at Convoy Point known as the bird observation area is closed to public use.

The closed areas are off-limits to all public access—except for individuals with a special use permit—to protect park visitors, wildlife, and vital sensitive natural and cultural resources.

The rocky area past the jetty at Convoy Point known as the bird observation area: This is an important resting and foraging area for waterbirds easily disrupted by the presence of humans. Disruption of resting and foraging activity might interfere with the birds’ ability to store or conserve energy for migration or overwintering, and to other visitors’ enjoyment of the variety of bird species found in the park.

7. The administrative/headquarters area is closed to public recreational use every day of the year.

8. Visitors entering the Boca Chita Lighthouse must meet a minimum height requirement of 42”.

9. Surfboards, kite boards or any other wind propelled hard rigid devices (not including sailboats) are prohibited in all marked navigational channels.

10. Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54 U.S.C. 100905.

Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity that occurs in closed areas, requires exclusive use of a site or area, or involves a set or staging equipment other than handheld equipment (such as a tripod, monopod, and handheld lighting equipment) requires a permit, unless the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
Filming, still photography, and audio recording that involves more than eight individuals requires a permit, unless the NPS has specifically notified an individual or group that a permit is not required, or if the activity is affiliated with an activity or event that has been allowed under a written authorization, such as a special use permit.
If a permit is required for the reasons stated above, or if the NPS otherwise determines and then notifies an individual or group that a permit is required for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity, then engaging in that activity without a permit is prohibited. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued by the NPS for a filming, still photography, or audio recording activity is prohibited, and may result in the suspension or revocation of the permit, in addition to any penalties that may apply under 36 CFR 1.3.

Federal law at 54 U.S.C. 100905 states that permits and fees are not required for filming, still photography, or audio recording in park areas if certain requirements are met. These requirements address various topics, including, but not limited to, group size, location, equipment, potential impacts to resources and visitors, and the likelihood that the NPS will incur related administrative costs. If any of these requirements are not met, the law allows the Secretary of the Interior, acting through the NPS, to require a permit for the subject activity. Permit requirements are imposed by the superintendent under discretionary authority provided by 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2), which allows the superintendent to impose conditions or restrictions on a use or activity, consistent with applicable legislation, to implement management responsibilities. The general regulations for permits in 36 CFR 1.6 do not apply to permits issued for filming, still photography, and audio recording, which instead are governed by the statutory provisions in 54 U.S.C. 100905. The imposition of permit requirements, on a case-by-case basis, for filming, still photography, or audio recording does not require rulemaking under 36 CFR 1.5(b). Requiring a permit with reasonable terms and conditions in accordance with statutory requirements at 54 U.S.C. 100905 is not highly controversial, will not result in a significant alteration in the public use pattern of the System unit, will not adversely affect the System unit’s natural, aesthetic, scenic or cultural values, or require a long-term or significant modification in the resource management objectives of the System unit, because the permit requirement is limited in time and scope to the specific activities authorized by the permit, which contain terms and conditions that protect the values, resources, and visitors of the System unit and implements federal law.

D. General:

Balloons: All areas of the park are closed for the sale or use of latex or mylar balloons.

This restriction is necessary to prevent the intentional or unintentional release of gas-filled balloons. Balloons pose a significant threat to scenic and environmental values as they eventually return to the earth. Balloons can injure or even kill fish and wildlife through entanglement, accidental ingestion (as they are often mistaken for food), and contribute to environmental degradation and litter pollution. As a result, these restrictions are in place to protect wildlife and preserve the park's natural beauty.
Motorized wheelchairs and “Segway” vehicles: Motorized wheelchairs and “Segways” shall be permitted in all public and back country areas. Motorized wheelchair and/or Segway use will be allowed only for individuals eligible for Handicapped Vehicle license plates or similar federal criteria. Proof of disability must be carried at all times by persons using a motorized wheelchair and/or “Segway.” “Segway” mobility devices or similar gyroscopic stabilized devices shall be authorized for use by individuals meeting the criteria of having substantial mobility limitation in accordance with Title V of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

These devices are only allowed at Convoy Point. Within the Convoy Point area, these devices are allowed on park roads, paved parking areas, concrete sidewalks and/or areas as well as grass lawns. These devices may only be used at its slowest speed setting and limited to the cadence of a walking pedestrian, estimated to be no more than 2 to 3 miles per hour. Manufacturer safety features should be fully functioning and not be modified and all the manufacturer’s recommended personal protective equipment must be worn at all times while operating these devices. Homemade or experimental alternatives to wheelchairs will not be allowed.

This restriction is necessary for the protection and safety of our visitors and resources while ensuring visitor enjoyment of the park.
Launching, landing, or operating an uncrewed aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Biscayne National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.

This restriction is necessary to prevent unacceptable impacts to park resources and values from the use of uncrewed aircraft. Potential impacts include harming visitors, interfering with rescue operations, causing excessive noise, impacting viewsheds, and disturbing wildlife. This restriction is required by NPS Reference Manual #60: Aviation Management, Chapter 12 – Uncrewed Aircraft Systems.

The term "Uncrewed Aircraft" is a device that is used or intended to be used for flight in the air without the possibility of direct human intervention from within or on the device, and the associated operational elements and components that are required for the pilot or system operator in command to operate or control the device (such as cameras, sensors, communication links). This term includes all types of devices that meet this definition (e.g., model airplanes, quadcopters, and drones) that are used for any purpose, including for recreation or commerce.

36 CFR 1.6 – ACTIVITIES THAT REQUIRE A PERMIT
The following activities are prohibited without a permit. Criteria for approving or denying permits are established by applicable law (statutes and regulations) and policy. Permitted activities are subject to applicable terms and conditions.

36 CFR 1.5
- Entering closed areas
- Launching or landing uncrewed aircraft
36 CFR 2.5 Specimen collection for research purposes.
26 CFR 2.10(a) Camping or mooring a vessel for more than 14 consecutive days or more than 30 days within a calendar year.
36 CFR 2.50 Conducting a special event.
36 CFR 2.51 Conducting a demonstration by groups of more than 25 people. (See Appendix F for location of designated area)
36 CFR 2.52 Selling or distributing printed matter and other message-bearing items by groups of more than 25 people. (See Appendix F for location of designated area)
36 CFR 2.62 Scattering of human ashes from cremation.
36 CFR 3.19 Use of Submersibles (manned or unmanned)
36 CFR 5.1 Displaying, posting, or distributing commercial notices or advertisements.
36 CFR 5.3 Engaging in or soliciting any business.
36 CFR 5.6 Using commercial vehicles on NPS-administered roads.
36 CFR 5.7 Constructing or attempting to construct any building, structure, road, trail, path, or utility.
43 CFR part 3. Examining ruins, excavating archeological sites, and gathering of objects of antiquity.
43 CFR part 7. Excavating or removing archeological resources.
54 U.S.C. 100905. Some filming, still photography, and audio recording (depends upon the facts and circumstances; contact the park for more information).

The Biscayne National Park superintendent may issue a permit to authorize an otherwise prohibited or restricted activity or impose a public use limit. The activity authorized by a permit shall be consistent with applicable legislation, Federal regulations and administrative policies, and based upon a determination that public health and safety, environmental or scenic values, natural or cultural resources, scientific research, implementation of management responsibilities, proper allocation and use of facilities, or the avoidance of conflict among visitor use activities will not be adversely impacted.

36 CFR 2.1 – PRESERVATION OF NATURAL, CULTURAL AND ARCHEOLOGICAL RESOURCES

A. 36 CFR 2.1 (a) (4) prohibits using or possessing wood gathered from within the park area. However, dead and down wood, including driftwood may be collected only from the immediate vicinity of the Elliott Key ocean side campground where a fire ring is located, as well as the developed areas of Adams Key where another fire ring is located.

B. 36 CFR 2.1(c)(1), “The superintendent may designate certain fruits, berries, nuts, or unoccupied seashells which may be gathered by hand for personal use or consumption upon a written determination that the gathering or consumption will not adversely affect park wildlife, the reproductive potential of a plant species, or otherwise adversely affect park resources.”

Collection, for personal use, of ripe coconuts found on the ground is permitted. Coconuts still on the trees may not be collected or disturbed.
Personal and commercial collecting of seashells, occupied or unoccupied, is prohibited to prevent the ecosystem from being adversely affected.
The harvest of blue land crabs is prohibited at Convoy Point.

These restrictions are necessary for visitor and resource protection, the preservation of park resources, and to minimize conflicts among visitors.

36 CFR 2.3 – FISHING
Area closures apply. Fishing in the following waters is prohibited:

1. Within the area marked by buoys at the mouth of Boca Chita Key Harbor as well as within the harbor

2. Within the area marked by buoys at the mouth of Elliott Key Harbor as well as within the harbor. The only exception is that fishing from the maintenance dock just south of the main harbor is permitted.

3. The National Park Service boat basin at Park Headquarters at Convoy Point

4. The entrance/main road at Convoy Point

5. The northern side of Adams Key dock

6. On the northern end of the Convoy Point picnic area adjacent to the boardwalk, just east of the canoe ramp/launch area

7. Cast netting (also called a throw net) is prohibited at Convoy Point along the Convoy Point Jetty and foot bridge.

8. The collection of ornamental fish and ornamental reef organisms is prohibited.

These restrictions are necessary to reduce the risk of injuries to visitors caused by fishing line and equipment, as well as to prevent fishing line from becoming entangled in a vessel’s propeller. They also aim to ensure a more enjoyable experience for all visitors in certain areas. Cast netting at Convoy Point is prohibited to safeguard both visitor safety and resource preservation.

36 CFR 2.10 – CAMPING AND FOOD STORAGE
A. 36 CFR 2.10(a) - Permits, designated sites or areas, and conditions for camping.

1. Elliott Key

Camping is only permitted in Elliott Key campground. Camping is also not allowed within twenty five feet (25’) of any structures on the island. Camping is not allowed within the clearing immediately north of the Elliott Key Visitor Center. All camping is on a “first come, first served” basis. (See Appendix B).
Camping and Marina Use Fees are due daily upon arrival OR no later than official sunset.
A Special Use Permit, issued by the Superintendent, is required to camp or moor a vessel for more than 14 consecutive days, or more than 30 days within a calendar year.
Camping is permitted in the group site on Elliott Key through reservations made through the park’s campground coordinator. In the absence of a reservation, group sites are available on a "first come, first served" basis.
All food, lawfully taken fish, garbage, and equipment used to cook and store food, must be kept inside a closed, secure compartment aboard a vessel or within a latched container constructed of solid, non-pliable material. This restriction does not apply to food that is being transported, prepared, and consumed or aboard vessels at anchor or underway. All food, lawfully taken fish and garbage must be attended at all times when it is not stored in the above manner.

These restrictions are necessary for visitor and resource protection and to minimize conflicts among visitors.
Camping restrictions: There are helicopter landing areas designated on park islands in case of emergencies. Visitors camping there would prohibit the helicopter from landing, thereby hindering emergency response.
Food Storage: These restrictions are set in place to ensure visitor safety and minimize wildlife interactions that can occur as a result of feeding wildlife.

2. Boca Chita

Boca Chita Key campground is restricted to the areas designated on the map (See Appendix B) available from the Superintendent or available at the Dante Fascell Visitor Center at Convoy Point.
Camping is not allowed within the clearing north of the barn structure. All camping is on a “first come, first served” basis.
Camping and Marina Use Fees are due daily upon arrival OR no later than official sunset.
A Special Use Permit, issued by the superintendent, is required to camp or moor a vessel for more than 14 consecutive days or more than 30 days within a calendar year.
Camping is permitted in the group sites on Boca Chita Key through reservations made through the park’s campground coordinator. In the absence of a reservation, group sites are available on a "first come, first served" basis.
All food, lawfully taken fish, garbage, and equipment used to cook and store food, must be kept inside a closed, secure compartment aboard a vessel, or within a latched container constructed of solid, non-pliable material. This restriction does not apply to food that is being transported, prepared, and consumed or aboard vessels at anchor or under way. All food, lawfully taken fish and garbage must be attended at all times when it is not stored in the above manner.

36 CFR 2.13(a)(1) - CONDITIONS ON LIGHTING OR MAINTAINING FIRE
A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.

This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire,
would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.

36 CFR 2.15 – PETS

Pets are not permitted on Boca Chita Key, including on vessels tied to, or otherwise attached to the island. Service animals as defined under the ADA are permitted. Service animals are not subject to the park’s pet policies and, when accompanying an individual with a disability, they are allowed wherever visitors are allowed. A service animal means any dog or miniature horse that is individually trained to do work or perform tasks for the benefit of an individual with a disability, including a physical, sensory, psychiatric, intellectual or other mental disability.

These restrictions are necessary for visitor and resource protection and to minimize conflicts among visitors. This includes but is not limited to ground nesting birds at Boca Chita.

36 CFR 2.20 – SKATING, SKATEBOARDS and SIMILAR DEVICES

The use of roller skates, wheeled sneakers, skateboards, scooters, roller blades, coasting vehicles, or similar devices are allowed only in the following areas:

These devices are only allowed at Convoy Point. Within the Convoy Point area, these devices are allowed on park roads, paved parking areas, concrete sidewalks and/or areas as well as grass lawns.
“Segway” mobility devices or similar gyroscopic stabilized devices shall be authorized for use by individuals meeting the criteria of having substantial mobility limitation in accordance with Title V of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973. These devices are only allowed at Convoy Point. Within the Convoy Point area, these devices are allowed on park roads, paved parking areas, concrete sidewalks and/or areas as well as grass lawns. These devices may only be used at its slowest speed setting and limited to the cadence of a walking pedestrian, estimated to be no more than 2 to 3 miles per hour. Manufacturer safety features should be fully functioning and not be modified and all the manufacturer’s recommended personal protective equipment must be worn at all times while operating these devices. Homemade or experimental alternatives to wheelchairs are not permitted.

These restrictions are in place for visitor and resource protection and to minimize conflicts among visitors.

36 CFR 2.51 – DEMONSTRATIONS AND DESIGNATED AVAILABLE PARKING AREAS
A. 36 CFR 2.51(c)(2) – Designated location
The following location at Convoy Point immediately adjacent to the visitor parking lot and paddle craft launch area is designated as available for demonstrations. A permit is not required for a demonstration in the designated location if it involves 25 persons or fewer and does not involve structures. (See Appendix F for location of designated area).

The designated location is in a prominent location near the visitor center that will allow individuals and groups to conduct demonstrations in a manner that will allow for effective communication of speech and other protected activities. At the same time, the designated location leaves ample space for visitors to enter and leave the visitor center safely and for the NPS to conduct administrative activities such as interpretive events.

36 CFR 2.52 – SALE OF PRINTED MATTER AND THE DISTRIBUTION OF PRINTED MATTER AND OTHER MESSAGE-BEARING ITEMS
The following location at Convoy Point immediately adjacent to the visitor parking lot and paddle craft launch area is designated as available for the sale or distribution of printed matter, and the free distribution of other message-bearing items. A permit is not required for these activities in the designated location if it involves 25 persons or fewer and does not involve structures. (See Appendix F for location of designated area).

The designated location is in a prominent location near the visitor center that will allow individuals and groups to conduct demonstrations in a manner that will allow for effective communication of speech and other protected activities. At the same time, the designated location leaves ample space for visitors to enter and leave the visitor center safely and for the NPS to conduct administrative activities such as interpretive events.

36 CFR 3.8 – VESSEL OPERATIONS

A. Slow speed/Minimum Wake zones established within Biscayne National Park (See Appendix C):

Within the area marked by buoys at the mouth of Boca Chita Key Harbor as well as within the harbor.
Convoy Point and Black Point Channels.
Caesar Creek Channel south of Adams Key to Porgy Key, including the navigational channel between markers "20" and "24".
Parallel to the park’s mainland shoreline extending out one thousand feet (1000') from the park’s northern boundary to the north end of Midnight Pass near the park’s southern boundary.

Slow speed restrictions are established for the protection of the visitors and resources, (more specifically to avoid or limit vessel accidents and to minimize visitor use conflicts).

B. Idle speed/No Wake zones established within Biscayne National Park (see Appendix D):
Within the area marked by idle speed/no wake zone buoys encompassing Sands Cut and University Dock which is defined as follows:

The entire area from the marked buoys headed west to the eastern shoreline of Elliott Key starting at the southwestern tip of Sands Key running south to the northern extent of Elliottt Key Harbor.

Idle speed/no wake restrictions are established for the protection of the visitors, more specifically to avoid or limit vessel accidents and to minimize visitor use conflicts.

C. Non-combustion engine use zone established within Featherbed Banks Biscayne National Park (see Appendix E):

Within the shallow seagrass areas of West Featherbed Bank, Middle Featherbed Bank, and East Featherbed Bank, including the entire area marked by either “Shallow” or “Non-Combustion Engine Use” buoys and markers. Within this area, vessels are prohibited from using internal combustion motors or engines for any purposes. A vessel with an internal combustion motor or engine may access this zone only through the use of a push pole, paddle, sail, electric motor or similar means of propulsion.
Within the entire shallow seagrass area around the Boca Chita Lighthouse marked by the "No Motorized Vessels" buoys. Vessels with any motor attached are prohibited from entering the "No Motorized Vessels" zone.

Non-combustion Engine Use and No Motorized Vessel zones are established for the protection of the visitors and resources, (more specifically to avoid or limit vessel accidents and to minimize visitor use conflicts).

D. A 300 foot no entry zone to all vessels (including non-motorized) surrounding islands hosting waterbird nesting colonies (see Appendix A):

• Arsenicker Key
• West Arsenicker Key
• Mangrove Key
• The small islands inside Jones Lagoon
• Soldier Key

E. Closed/Restricted docking: “No Docking” areas include the following:

The maintenance dock at Elliott Key.
The marked “No Docking” or ”Reserved Park Staff” boat slips and the marked “No Docking” bulkhead in Elliott Key harbor.
The marked “No Docking” or ”Reserved Park Staff” bulkhead area at Boca Chita Key.
The National Park Service south boat basin and boat ramp at Convoy Point.
The northern side of Adams Key dock as well as the small wooden dock north of the main concrete dock.
The marked “Park Tour Boat Docking Only” area of University Dock.
Other areas as designated within the park.

These restrictions are established to provide for visitor and resource protection and emergency response and accessibility. Many areas are restricted to ensure access to emergency responders.

F. Beaching of vessels: Defined as a vessel whose keel is resting on emerged or submerged coastline of any land mass. No beaching areas include the following:

Any shore areas of Soldier Key
Any shore areas of Boca Chita Key
Any shore areas on the western and eastern sides of Elliott Key
Any shore areas around the Ragged Keys

These restrictions are set in place for the protection and safety of visitors and for the protection of natural and cultural resources. Many endangered and threatened species use park areas/shorelines for nesting and foraging.

G. No anchoring areas include the following:

Within Boca Chita Key Harbor
Within Elliott Key Harbor
Within the slow speed zone marked by buoys at the mouth/entrance of Boca Chita Key Harbor
At the mouth/entrance of Elliott Key Harbor
Within 100 feet of Boca Chita Key
The Legare Anchorage within the rectangular area bounded by latitude 25°30 N and 25°29 N and longitude 80°08 W and 80°07 W.
Within any marked navigational channel
Within 300 feet of mooring buoys.

These restrictions are established to provide for visitor and resource protection and emergency response and accessibility.

H. Anchoring/Rafting restrictions and the locations to where these restrictions apply:

No more than five (5) vessels may “raft” or tie/attach to one another by means of line or any other means. Such groups of “rafted” or tied vessels must maintain one hundred feet (100’) separation from other individual vessels within the entire Biscayne National Park. For this purpose, tied or "rafted” vessels are vessels whose proximity to each other and/or the group of “rafted” vessels is five feet (5’) or less in distance.
Any vessel at anchor or whose hull is being supported in part or completely by a flat or shallow sea bottom, must maintain a minimum distance of one hundred feet (100') from any other vessel or a "rafted"/tied together group of vessels. The only exception to this rule is when such vessel is tied or "rafted" to another vessel.

These restrictions are established to provide for visitor and resource protection and emergency response and accessibility.

I. Public launching restrictions and the locations to where these restrictions apply:

The ramp at Convoy Point Headquarters building is closed to the public. (This regulation does not pertain to Biscayne National Park employees and other authorized volunteers and/or cooperators).

This ramp is closed to the public to ensure visitor safety and to ensure agency and authorized vessels can launch without conflict.
The canoe ramp located near the Visitor Center parking lot is for the launching of non-motorized vessels only (e.g., paddlecraft such as canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, paddleboats, kiteboards/windsurfers, etc.) only.

This shallow area does not allow for the launching of motorized vessels. It is open for the launching of non-motorized vessels only. These restrictions are in place for visitor and resource protection and to minimize conflicts among visitors.

J. Public mooring restrictions and the locations to where these restrictions apply:

No more than one other vessel may raft to a vessel tied to /docked at the cleated bulkhead at Boca Chita Key. This does not preclude the rafting of a vessel’s tender alongside in addition to the allowable one additional vessel. A vessel tender is described as any vessel fourteen (14’) feet or less. Any tender larger than fourteen feet (14’) will be counted as the additional allowable vessel.
Vessels are only permitted to moor parallel to the bulkhead at Boca Chita Key.
No more than one vessel may tie or moor to a mooring buoy.
Vessels tied to mooring buoys will not moor for more than 4 hours and the size of the vessel may not exceed 45’ unless authorized.

These restrictions are in place for visitor and resource protection and to minimize conflicts among visitors.

36 CFR 3.12 – WATER SKIING OR OTHER SIMILAR ACTIVITIES
The towing of a person by a vessel within Biscayne National Park is prohibited in the following areas:

Waterskiing is not permitted inside any marked navigational channel or within one hundred feet (100’) of any marked navigational channel.
Waterskiing is prohibited in Jones Lagoon.

These restrictions are in place for visitor and resource protection and to minimize conflicts among visitors.

36 CFR 3.14 – SUNKEN, GROUNDED, OR DISABLED VESSELS
All sunken, grounded, or disabled vessels must be removed in accordance with the established Vessel Grounding Program Policies and Procedures document, available from the Superintendent.

These restrictions are in place for visitor and resource protection and to minimize conflicts among visitors. Sunken, grounded, or disabled vessels cause serious injuries to resources and must be removed in a manner approved by the park to reduce further injuries.

36 CFR 3.16 – SWIM OR WADE & 36 CFR 3.18 SNORKEL AND UNDERWATER DIVE
The following areas are closed to swimming, wading, snorkeling, and underwater diving:

The Legare Anchorage within the rectangular area bounded by latitude 25°30 N and 25°29 N and longitude 80°08 W and 80°07 W
Boca Chita Key Harbor
Elliott Key Harbor
Convoy Point Harbor
Within the slow speed zone at the mouth/entrance of Boca Chita Key Harbor
Within the mouth/entrance of Elliott Key Harbor
Within one hundred feet (100’) of all marked navigational channels

These restrictions are in place for visitor and resource protection. Visitors can be seriously injured or killed by other vessels traveling within these areas. These areas are also restricted for the protection of cultural and natural resources.

36 CFR 4.21 – SPEED LIMITS
The following speed limits are established for the roads within Biscayne National Park:
The speed limit in Biscayne National Park is fifteen miles per hour (15 mph), except on the straight section of the main park/entrance road. In this stretch of roadway, the speed limit is twenty-five miles per hour (25mph).

Speed restrictions are set in place for the protection of both park visitors and resources. Higher speeds significantly increase the risk of serious injury or death in the event of an accident.

36 CFR 4.30 – BICYCLES
Bicycles are only allowed to be used on the Elliott Key hiking trail on Elliott Key. Bicycle use is prohibited at Convoy Point (except on marked roadways where vehicular traffic is permitted). The use of bicycles in any other non-developed, non-paved (road), areas underneath the visitor center, and jetty/boardwalk is prohibited.

This restriction is necessary for ensuring the protection and enjoyment of our visitors. Bicycling on the boardwalk can lead to damage and create conflicts in visitor use. Additionally, the ramp to the Visitor Center is designated for pedestrian and wheelchair access only. Allowing bicycles on the ramp poses a risk of injury, especially in areas with blind corners where visibility is limited.

A. 36 CFR 4.30(i) – Electric bicycles: Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles are allowed in the following locations where traditional bicycles also are allowed: Elliott Key hiking trail of Elliott Key. Electric bicycle use is prohibited at Convoy Point (except on marked roadways where vehicular traffic is permitted). The use of electric bicycles in any other non-developed, non-paved (road), areas underneath the visitor center, and jetty/boardwalk is prohibited.

Allowing electric bicycles on roads and parking areas will not create new, adverse impacts to resources or visitors because those locations are already used by motor vehicles and traditional bicycles. Electric bicycles provide a recreational opportunity for visitors who want to ride a bicycle but might not otherwise because of physical fitness, age, or convenience, especially at high altitudes and on terrain with changing elevations. Class 3 electric bicycles, which allow the motor to assist pedaling up to 28 mph, would create unacceptable risks to visitor safety on roads and parking areas in the park due to potential conflicts with heavier and faster motor vehicles, and with other electric bicycles and traditional bicycles, which travel at slower speeds. Accidents that occur at higher speeds increase the risk of serious injury or death.