In accordance with regulations and the delegated authority provided in Title 36, Code of Federal Regulations, Chapter I, Parts 1 through 7, authorized by Title 16, United States Code, Section 3, the following regulatory provisions are established for the proper management, protection, government and public use of the portion of Dry Tortugas National Park under the jurisdiction of the National Park Service. These discretionary regulations are in addition to the other regulations published in Title 36 CFR, Chapter I, Parts 2 through 7. Unless otherwise stated, these regulatory provisions apply in addition to the requirements contained in 36 CFR, Chapter 1.
Learn more about laws and policies.
Visitors may enter or leave the park 24 hours a day except as follows:
- The interior of Fort Jefferson on Garden Key is open during daylight hours only. In the event of an emergency, visitors may enter the interior of the fort to summon assistance.
Balloons
- All areas of the park are closed to possession of helium-filled latex or Mylar balloons.
- Release of any type of balloon, including paper “sky lanterns” is prohibited
Boating
What restrictions apply to boating?
- Anchored vessels may not be left unattended for more than 4 hours unless the boat operator is within sight of the vessel and capable of responding to it for onboard emergencies.
- The use of high intensity artificial lights such as spot or flood vessel deck or stern lights is prohibited.
- Use of underwater (sub-surface) vessel lighting is prohibited within Park waters.
- Any vessel using the Garden Key dock in any manner is subject to the following restrictions:
- From 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, the eastern half of the main dock is reserved for the concession ferry.
- The priority use of the dock is in the following order: emergency use, government vessels, and vessels operating under contract. If none of these vessels require use of the dock, recreational and commercial vessels may use the dock in accordance with this document.
- Total allowable dock use for one day is two hours (cumulative) per vessel.
- No overnight docking is permitted.
- Any vessel using any of the courtesy slips at Garden Key, when they are available, in any manner is subject to the following restrictions:
- Total allowable dock use for one day is two hours (cumulative) per vessel.
- No overnight docking is permitted.
- Visitors must anchor at a designated dinghy beach or in the designated anchorage as defined in 36 CFR §7.27(a)(3) where designated anchorage means any area of sand (underwater) within one nautical mile of the Fort Jefferson Harbor Light (NAD83 17R 2725068, 310492 UTM). Anchoring is prohibited in all closed areas.
- Vessels anchoring in Garden Key Harbor must be south, southeast of a line extending from southwest channel red marker #12 to the most westernmost “Off Limits” narrow white cylindrical buoy off Bush Key in order to keep the channel clear.
- Vessels engaging in park-related activities between sunset and sunrise outside one nautical mile from the Garden Key Harbor Light are required to have a permit, which may be obtained at Garden Key. Vessels are not allowed to anchor or moor outside one nautical mile at night in accordance with 36 CFR §7.27 (e)(3).
- In accordance with USCG regulation 33 CFR 110.190 and NPS regulation 36 CFR 7.27(4), the designated anchorage for commercial fishing vessels is Bird Key Harbor. The National Park Service recognizes Garden Key Harbor as a safe harbor in cases of emergency or inclement weather. When the National Weather Service issues a small craft advisory, the red “small craft advisory” pennant will be flown below the US Flag on the park's flag staff. The red triangular pennant indicates that Garden Key Harbor is open to all vessels to anchor until the advisory is lifted.
- Vessels may not anchor within 200 feet of the designated seaplane beach which is the section of the southeast facing Garden Key beach extending from the “Dinghies/Seaplanes” sign east to the boundary line of Bush Key.
- To protect nesting sea birds and sea turtles, vessels may not anchor within 100 feet of East, Middle, Hospital, Long, and Bush Keys, unless otherwise indicated by signage or demarcation buoys. These closures may be seasonal in accordance with the Dry Tortugas Visitor Management Plan.
- Due to submerged hazards to navigation, anchoring in Bird Key Harbor is prohibited within a 100-foot radius in all directions of the hazard buoy located in the vicinity of N 24°37.34’ x W 082°52.94’ (Standard UTM Zone 17, Northern Hemisphere, Easting – 345832.4, Northing – 2696035.6).
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White lights are prohibited on the beaches during sea turtle nesting season. Red lights are permissible.
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The use of high intensity artificial lights such as spot or flood vessel deck or stern lights is prohibited.
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Use of underwater lights of any kind, other than hand held dive lights are prohibited within Park waters. Underwater lights create an unnatural environment and disrupt the natural behavior of marine species.
What restrictions apply to the use of Bush Key?
- Bush Key is open from sunrise to sunset from approximately mid-October to mid-January, or when tern nesting season is complete as designated by the park superintendent.
- Vessels may only access Bush Key from the designated dinghy beaches or designated visitor courtesy docks on Garden Key. Vessels, including dinghies, kayaks, and paddleboards are not permitted to launch or land on Bush Key.
- All visitors must stay below the vegetation line and above the water line, unless on a designated trail or route. Entering or exiting the water from the shore to swim, snorkel or dive is prohibited.
- Bush Key is closed as designated by the superintendent, from approximately mid-February to mid-October for protection of nesting seabirds. Persons and vessels must remain at least 100 feet from the mean low tide line, unless otherwise indicated by demarcation buoys or signage.
- When a navigable channel exists between Garden Key and Bush Key or Bush Key and Long Key, the channel may be used precluding vessels with draft restrictions.
What restrictions apply on Loggerhead Key?
- Loggerhead Key is open from sunrise to sunset.
- Loggerhead Key is within the Research Natural Area (RNA) and therefore is closed to fishing and anchoring.
- Prior to visitation, visitors must obtain a permit upon arrival at the Garden Key dock house.
- A maximum of 25 visitors per day is allowed.
- To access Loggerhead Key, visitors are allowed to land or beach their vessels on the designated dinghy beaches as indicated by signage. Landing a vessel elsewhere on the island is prohibited to protect sea turtle nests.
- Private vessels are prohibited from using the Loggerhead dock. The dock is reserved for government vessels or vessels operating under park contract to use the dock.
- Visitors must stay on established walkways on the interior and below the vegetation line on the beach.
- All buildings and structures are closed to the public.
- Visitors must maintain a minimum distance of 30 feet away from the Loggerhead Key boathouse. The boathouse, located on the northwest side of Loggerhead Key, collapsed and is a hazardous area. This closure is in effect until further notice.
- Dinghy tethers are available for dinghies, kayaks and canoes at 24°37.984’ N X 082° 55.349’ W near the southern edge of the designated swimming area on the northwest side of Loggerhead Key. These tethers will accommodate a maximum of three dinghies of 16 feet or less. Vessels greater than 16 feet are prohibited from using these tethers.
- Swimming, snorkeling or scuba diving from shore requires a red and white diver-down warning device be displayed except within the designated swim/snorkel area.
The following areas are closed or restricted as indicated (additional locations may be closed or restricted between annual revisions of this compendium by the posting of appropriate signs).
- Park residences located on Garden Key and Loggerhead Key are closed to public entry.
- Administrative works areas, Government boat lips and associated docks on Garden Key and Loggerhead Key are closed to public entry.
- Posted construction areas are closed to public entry.
- East, Middle, Hospital, and Long Keys are closed year-round. Vessels and persons must remain at least 100 feet from the mean low tide line, unless otherwise indicated by demarcation buoys or signage. These closures may vary in accordance with the Dry Tortugas Visitor Management Plan.
- The area designated as the “Shark Special Protection Zone” is closed to the public June 1 through October 31. (Refer to Appendix G for coordinate description).
- The area designated as the “Coral Special Protection Zone” is closed in accordance with 36 CFR
- §7.27. (Refer to Appendix G for coordinate description).
Filming, still photography, and audio recording activity may require a permit, consistent with 54U.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 EVER 2026 Compendium 12 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.
What restrictions apply to fishing?
- Fishing is prohibited from any finger pier displaying the signage “Government Use Only” or “NPS Use Only” at Garden Key.
- Only legally obtained finfish and shrimp may be caught and reduced to harvest. This includes wildlife reduced to harvest for use as bait.
- Fishing off the visitor courtesy docks at Garden Key is permitted when the slip is unoccupied. In order to ensure the safety and security of privately owned vessels and to avoid conflicting use when the slips are occupied, only the members of the immediate party may fish from the occupied pier.
- Fishing off the Garden Key Dock when the concession ferry is docked is prohibited.
- Fishing off Bush Key is prohibited. Fishing only is permitted from the land bridge between Garden Key and the Bush Key sign on the harbor side. To ensure safety and to avoid conflicting use, pedestrians have right of way over those engaged in fishing activities.
- Fishing in or into any closed area is prohibited. Some of the closed areas include the designated swimming area, the “Coral Special Protection Zone” and “Shark Special Protection Zone” (Refer to Appendix F for coordinate descriptions).
- Fishing regulations are in accordance with Florida state law. Dry Tortugas National Park encompasses fishable waters consisting of Gulf of America (state and federal waters), Atlantic (state and federal waters), Monroe County, FL and multi fish specific management zones.
- Except for drinking water, possession of food and drink by visitors is prohibited within the interior of Fort Jefferson (all areas beyond the wood bridge).
- Disposal of food scraps, fish remains or entrails, and washing dishes is prohibited in the waters of the moat and any designated swimming area.
- Disposal of fish remains and washing dishes must occur a minimum of 200 feet away from any designated swimming beach. The “Restricted Docking” sign on the shore above the finger piers marks 200 feet from the Garden Key designated swimming beach.
- Glass containers are prohibited on all islands, except within designated campsites on Garden Key.
What restrictions apply to the use of park mooring balls?
- All visitor-use mooring balls in the Research Natural Area are limited to 2 hours per day per mooring, if there is a vessel waiting.
- Mooring balls may only be used from sunrise to sunset.
- Visitors are responsible for all damage to moorings due to negligence or improper use of moorings.
- Vessels over 110 feet (33 m) are prohibited from using the visitor use mooring balls.
- Vessels are prohibited from attaching the mooring ball tag line directly to their vessel. Vessels must use a line from their vessel to connect to the mooring tag line.
- Vessels are prohibited from using the government mooring ball in Garden Key Harbor. In the event of an emergency, exceptions are considered on a case-by-case basis.
What restrictions apply to swimming snorkeling and scuba diving?
- Diving between sunset and sunrise outside 1 nautical mile of the Garden Key Light is prohibited without a Special Use Permit (permit) obtained upon arrival at Garden Key.
- Designated swim/snorkel areas are established at Garden Key and Loggerhead Key. Designated swim/snorkel areas are bounded by narrow white cylindrical buoys. The Loggerhead swimming area is located on the northwest side of Loggerhead Key.
- Swimming, snorkeling and scuba diving anywhere outside the designated swim/snorkel areas, including swimming from a vessel, requires displaying a red and white diver down flag. Title 36 CFR
- 3.18 as well as Florida Statute 327.331 define diver-down device warning requirements. Swimmers, snorkelers, and divers must make reasonable efforts to stay within 300 feet of a divers-down warning device.
- Entering or exiting the water to swim, dive or snorkel off any shore of Garden Key, outside the designated swim area is prohibited. The designated swim area is bounded by narrow white cylindrical buoys.
- Recreational swimming in the Garden Key Harbor and associated channels is prohibited.
- Swimming, diving, and snorkeling in the moat surrounding the Fort is prohibited.
- Entering or exiting the water from the moat wall is prohibited, except in emergency situations.
Launching, landing or operating an unmanned aircraft from or on lands and waters administered by the National Park Service within the boundaries of Dry Tortugas National Park is prohibited except as approved in writing by the Superintendent.
The term "unmanned aircraft" means 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, quad copter, drones) that are used for any purposes, including recreation or commerce.
| 36 CFR |
Activity |
| §1.5(a)(1) |
Visiting Loggerhead Key (Obtained at Garden Key) |
| §1.5(a)(1) |
Boaters engaging in night activities outside 1 nautical mile of the
Garden Key Harbor Light (Obtained at Garden Key). |
| §1.5(a)(1) |
Non-motorized vessels engaging in night activities within 1 mile of
the Garden Key Harbor Light (Obtained at Garden Key). |
| §1.5(a)(1) |
Diving between sunset and sunrise outside 1 nautical mile of the
Garden Key Harbor Light (Obtained at Garden Key). |
| §1.5(a)(2) |
Use and or operation of Amateur Radio (AKA Ham Radio) |
| §1.5(f) |
Entering closed areas |
| §2.5(a) |
Specimen collection (take plant, fish, wildlife, rocks or minerals) |
| §2.17 |
Aircraft landing in designated areas |
| §2.17(c)(3) |
Removal of downed aircraft or parts |
| §2.22(a)(2) |
Property left unattended for more than 24 hours |
| §2.50(a) |
Special Events: sporting, pageants, regattas, public spectator
attractions, entertainment, ceremonies, or other similar events such
as:
- Educational activities sponsored by educational institutionsand having organized agendas
- Boating or organized clubs.
|
| §2.51(a) |
Public Assemblies, meeting, gatherings, demonstrations, parades,
and other public expressions of views involving 25 or more people. |
| §2.52 (c) |
Sale or distribution of printed matter |
| §2.62 |
Memorialization (scattering ashes from human cremation) |
| §3.19 |
Use of manned or unmanned submersibles |
| §5.3 |
Business Operations (Commercial Use Authorizations) |
| §5.5 |
Still photography and audio recording |
| §5.7 |
Construction of buildings or other facilities including
photographic/observation blinds |
| §7.27(h)(1) |
Non-commercial vessels engaged in recreational activities-Boat
Permit (Obtained at Garden Key) |
| §7.27(h)(2) |
Research activities |
Specific Prohibitions related to Natural, Cultural and Archeological Resources
- §2.1(a)(5) – Standing or sitting on the edges of the fort parapet and fort openings is prohibited to ensure visitor safety from falling off and falling bricks from above and to maintain a historic appearance to the scenery.
- Climbing and/or standing on cannons, artillery pieces, carriages, limbers and monument markers is prohibited.
Sea Grapes and Coconuts
(c)(2)(i) – Up to one quart of sea grapes (Coccoloba uvifera) per person may be gathered for immediate personal consumption from trees located in public areas.
(c)(2)(ii) Coconuts (Cocos nucifera) that have fallen to the ground in public areas may be gathered or removed for personal consumption.
Specific Prohibitions Related to Wildlife
- (a)(2) – The Goliath Grouper (Epinephelus itajara) and other animal species residing within or migrating through the Dry Tortugas National Park are protected from deliberate disturbance, interference or molestation. The feeding, touching, teasing, frightening, or intentionally disturbing of wildlife nesting, breeding or other activities are strictly prohibited. Some animals can become desensitized to human activity and may become dangerous to people. This order is needed to ensure public safety and will be in effect indefinitely.
- (d) – Spearfishing and harvesting lobster are prohibited in accordance with 36 CFR §7.27(4). Legally taken speared fish or lobster obtained outside the park must be reported prior to entering park waters. Once inside the park boundary, the reporting vessel must transit through to its intended final anchoring/mooring location without stopping or allowing its passengers/crew to enter the water until said mooring location is reached.
- (e) – The use of high intensity artificial lights such as spot or flood vessel deck lights, stern and underwater illumination is prohibited. Use of underwater lights of any kind, other than handheld dive lights are prohibited in Park waters. Determining Factor: Underwater lights cause an unnatural environment and disrupt the natural behavior of marine species.
Designated Sites or Areas and Conditions for Camping
- Camping and overnight visitor occupancy is allowed only in the designated campsites of the campground on Garden Key and aboard vessels in the designated anchorage area as defined in 36 CFR §7.27(a)(3).
- Campers in the Garden Key campground must register and pay the campsite fee within 1 hour
- on day of arrival.
- Tents must be pitched on provided tent pads or within 10 feet of the site’s designated picnic table if no tent pad is present.
- Once taken, campsites must be occupied. Sites may not be reserved by placing tents/gear or fee stubs for persons who are not yet present.
- Hanging of hammocks, clothes, trash, towels, etc. on the trees or branches is prohibited.
- Maximum number of persons per site is 6; maximum number of two person tents is 3.
- Groups of 10 or more (with a maximum of 20) campers require a group site reservation in advance.
- The campground maximum capacity is 68 total campers on a first-come, first-served basis with a maximum group camp capacity of 20 (by reservation).
- Camping/overnight anchoring within the park is limited to 14 consecutive nights and to no more than 30 nights in a 12-month period.
- Extensions of the stay limit for camping/overnight anchoring may be granted by the Superintendent or his/her designee under one of the following circumstances:
- Unsafe weather conditions,
- To facilitate an emergency repair,
- Medical emergencies.
- Checkout time for the Garden Key Campground is 10:00 a.m.
Food Storage and Trash
- Food items and refuse must be stored in a hard sided container or hung on provided posts in a manner where wildlife cannot disturb it.
Specific Prohibitions on Fires
(a)(1) – Ground fires and wood fires are prohibited throughout the park.
(a)(1) – Charcoal fires, sterno and gas/propane camp stove fires are permitted only inthe Garden Key Campground. Burning of wood, driftwood, marine debris and/or any trash is prohibited.
Open fires may only be built in grills (campsite provided or portable) within the Garden Key camping area, or on a private vessel at the owner’s discretion.
- All ground fires are prohibited regardless of location or intent.
- With the exception of the areas listed above, boats and any park residence, all cooking and heating must be accomplished with devices that will not produce a spark or ember that is capable of igniting vegetation.
In accordance with the below and with the exception of wood as prohibited above:(a)(1) 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 synthetic materials, is prohibited.
Refuse
- (a)(2) – Visitors are responsible for the collection and removal of all refuse they bring into or create while in the park. Public refuse receptacles are not available.
(a)(1) Pets are permitted in the park but are not permitted to enter the interior of Fort Jefferson.
- Pets must be on a leash at all times.
- Pets must remain on established walkways and below the vegetation line on the beach.
(a)(5) Visitors must remove pet-generated waste from the park.(e) Pets may be kept by park residents in accordance with 36 CFR 2.15.
(e) Pets may be kept by park residents in accordance with 36 CFR 2.15.
What restrictions apply to aircraft and air delivery?
- (a)(3) – Delivery or retrieval of a person or object by parachute, helicopter or other airborne means except in emergencies involving public safety or serious property loss, or pursuant to the terms and conditions of a permit. A Special Use Permit is required.
- (c)(1) – Except as provided in paragraph (c)(3) of 36 CFR §2.17, the owners of a downed aircraft shall remove the aircraft and all component parts thereof in accordance with procedures established by the superintendent.
- (d) – The use of aircraft shall be in accordance with regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). FAA regulations may be found in 14 CFR, Chapter 1.
What restrictions apply to smoking?
- (a) – Smoking is prohibited in all federal buildings, the interior of Fort Jefferson including the wooden moat bridge, and any area within 50 feet (15 m) of the main dock on land or on water, including vessels docked on or on waters within 50 feet (15 m). This restriction also applies to electronic smoking devices.
Geo-Caching
- Geo-Caching is prohibited throughout the Dry Tortugas NP. See also 36 CFR § 2.22. Virtual Geo-Caching does not leave any physical property on NPS premises, but instead uses existing on site features. Virtual Geo-Caching is permissible.
Personal Property
- (a)(2) – Personal property may not be left unattended longer than 24 hours in the park without a permit.
Corals and Other Underwater Natural Features
- Taking, possessing, removing, damaging, touching, handling, harvesting, disturbing, standing on, or otherwise injuring coral, coral formation, seagrass or other living or dead organisms, including marine invertebrates, live rock, and shells is prohibited.
- Vessel operators are prohibited from allowing their vessel to strike, injure, or damage coral, seagrass, or any other immobile organism attached to the seabed.
- Vessel operators are prohibited from allowing an anchor, chain, rope or other mooring device to be cast, dragged, or placed so as to strike, break, abrade, or otherwise cause damage to coral formations, sea grass, or submerged cultural resources.
Using roller skates, skateboards, roller skis, roller blades, coasting vehicles or similar devices is prohibited
A buffer zone exists around Bush Key and Long Key. During the seabird nesting season, Bush Key is closed to protect those nesting seabirds. Bush Key is closed to visitation from about mid-January when the birds arrive, until mid-October, when the hatchlings have fledged and all the seabirds have left.
The Long Key buffer zone is in effect year-around due to a nesting rookery of the Magnificent Frigate Bird.
Persons/vessels must maintain 100 feet from the shoreline during times when closures are in effect. The 100 foot buffer zone is marked by narrow white cylindrical buoys.
In compliance with 36 CFR 2.51 and 2.52, the following areas are designated as inappropriate for these uses based on the criteria set forth in the Code of Federal Regulations.
All undeveloped areas of the park are closed to these activities, as these activities would unreasonably impair the atmosphere of peace and tranquility maintained in wilderness, natural, historic or commemorative zones. 36 CFR 2.51(e)(2) and 2.52(e)(3).
All offices, exhibit rooms, maintenance areas, natural trails, boat docks, campgrounds, and historic structures are closed as these activities would unreasonably interfere with interpretive, visitor service, or other program activities, or with the administrative activities of the National Park Service. 36 CFR 2.51(e)(2) and 2.52(e)(3).
Public use areas not specifically mentioned above are open as follows:
- The land area of Garden Key bounded on the east by the walkway to the public docks, the north by the moat wall, the west by the campground, and the south by the shoreline (refer to Appendix G for coordinate description).
Background: Amateur radio (also called ham radio) describes the use of radio frequency spectrum for purposes of non-commercial exchange of messages, wireless experimentation, self-training, private recreation, radio-sport, contesting, and emergency communication. The term "amateur" is used to specify "a duly authorized person interested in radio-electric practice with a purely personal aim and without pecuniary interest.
- Amateur radio operators must possess a valid FCC or reciprocal international Amateur Radio Operator license issued by a competent authority.
- Amateur radio operators wishing to operate from Dry Tortugas NP must obtain a special use permit prior to arrival at Dry Tortugas.
- Operators are limited to the area immediately south of the north coal dock ruins in the vicinity of NAD83 17R 2725221, 310583 UTM. Operators may set up necessary equipment within a 30-foot diameter of the designated point.
- Safety: Guy wires used to support an antenna, small temporary sun shelters or any other device or equipment necessary for the radio operation will be marked with high visibility flagging tape. Small red lights will mark the guy wires at night.
- 36 CFR §2.12(1) – Operating a motorized electrical generator is prohibited. Solar panels are encouraged for extended power needs.
- Vessels must maintain a clearance of 200 feet from the designated seaplane beach. Vessels may not anchor within 200 feet of the seaplane beach.
- Seaplanes require a minimum safe distance to enter and exit the area. The designated seaplane beach is the section of the southeast facing Garden Key beach extending from the “Dinghies/Seaplanes” sign northeast to the boundary line of Bush Key indicated by “Area Closed” signs.
Regulations Regarding Flights over Charted National Park Service Areas, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Areas, and U.S. Forest Service AreasCAUTION: Before landing fixed-wing aircraft on the lands or waters within the boundaries of lands administered by the National Park Service (NPS) and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS), pilots should check with the respective agencies for any closures that may be in effect. The landing of helicopters is prohibited on the lands and waters within the boundaries of lands administered by the NPS, FWS, and U.S. Forest Service (USFS) Wilderness areas. Contact information for any portions of these areas contained on Sectional Charts can be found in the chart margin. Exceptions include:
- When forced to land due to an emergency beyond the control of the operator; or,
- At officially designated landing sites; or,
- An approved official business of the Federal Government.
All aircraft are requested to maintain a minimum altitude of 2,000 feet above the surface of lands and waters administered by the NPS, FWS, or USFS Wilderness areas. FAA Advisory Circular (AC 91-36C), "Visual Flight Rules (VFR) Flight near Noise Sensitive Areas," defines the surface as: the highest terrain within 2,000 feet laterally of the route of flight, or the uppermost rim of a canyon or valley.Pilots are warned that it is unlawful at any altitude to use an aircraft to harass any wildlife (16 USC 742j-1; 50 CFR Part 19). Harass is defined to mean disturb, worry, molest, rally, concentrate, harry, chase, drive, herd or torment. FAA Advisory Circular (AC 91-36C) (PDF, 136 KB)
Statements of Finding in Support of Closures for the Dry Tortugas National Park Superintendent’s Compendium 2025
The Superintendent of Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks has used the discretionary authority granted by Chapter I of 36 CFR §1.5(a), and established certain closures. They are actions necessary for administration of the park in concert with its enabling legislation, NPS management policies for the benefit of the resource and the visitor. Articulations of the reasons for closures are set forth in this justification.On January 19, 2007, special regulations for Dry Tortugas National Park (DRTO) went into effect. They are codified in 36 CFR §7.27. These regulations replaced the special regulations for the abolished Fort Jefferson National Monument. They also implemented provisions for visitor use and resource protection identified in the 2001 General Management Plan Amendment (GMPA).
§1.5(a)(1) Public Use Limits
- Possession of food and drink by visitors is prohibited inside the Fort, except water. This restriction will prevent clutter of the historic scene by litter, and attraction of insects, birds and Norway rats.
- Food and drink in glass containers are not permitted on any of the islands. The purpose of this regulation is to prevent visitor injuries by keeping glass off the beaches and other areas where people walk barefooted. An exception to this restriction is made to allow employees, their guests, and VIPs to possess glass containers in the designated residence area of the park and campers using the Garden Key Campground.
- The use of bright lights must be minimized to maintain a night sky that meets the expectations of park visitors so as to not create excessive or unnecessary light.
- Balloons are prohibited because they present a threat to scenic and environmental values, are non-biodegradable and when entering the water are a threat to endangered sea turtles as they resemble jellyfish which are a primary dietary item for sea turtles.
- Diving from sunrise to sunset outside 1 nautical mile of the Garden Key Light requires a permit to enable monitoring of activities and enhance safety in a remote ocean location.
- There are several areas where frequent vessel traffic makes swimming hazardous. Areas such as an active harbor or channel, seaplane beach and dinghy beaches are closed to recreational swimming. As a safety measure, entering and exiting the water is permitted only at the designated swim beaches. Swimming, snorkeling and diving outside those areas requires a dive flag to increase visibility and safety. The moat is closed to swimming, snorkeling and diving due to poor water quality and to protect resources in shallow water.
- Accessing the Garden Key swim area from the moat wall is prohibited for safety reasons and to protect cultural and natural marine resources which are abundant along the wall.
- Vessel operators are responsible for assuring the vessel’s anchor is holding and no emergencies occur. It is prudent to require operators to check on their vessels at least every 4 hours.
- Due to space limitations on the Garden Key dock, restrictions have been identified to assure availability
by the commercial ferry boats, the park’s service vessel and the public. Due to damage caused by Hurricane Ian, there are currently no visitor slips available.
- Vessels are not permitted to anchor in any active channel; doing so is illegal and creates a hazard to navigation.
- All visitor use mooring balls in the Research Natural Area are limited to 2 hours per day to allow others use of the mooring. Visitor use mooring balls may only be used from sunrise to sunset as anchoring outside 1 nautical mile of the Garden Key Light between sunset and sunrise is prohibited and the moorings replace the act of anchoring. Vessels over 110 feet (33m) are prohibited from using the visitor use mooring balls as the moorings are not designed to hold larger vessels. Vessels must follow procedures for attaching to balls to not damage the system. Vessels are prohibited from using the government mooring ball in Garden Key Harbor to assure access for park vessels and emergencies.
- Bush Key is open as designated by the park superintendent when tern nesting season is complete. For safety reasons Bush Key is open from sunrise to sunset. To reduce damage to shallow marine areas and island vegetation, vessels may only access Bush key at the designated Garden Key dinghy beaches, visitors must stay below the vegetation line. Entering or exiting the water off the shore to swim, dive or snorkel is prohibited.
- Due the threat posed by lost fishing tackle (i.e. monofilament line, hooks, lead weights, etc.) in proximity to ecologically sensitive and protected areas, fishing from Bush Key is prohibited.
- Fishing off Government slips at Garden Key is prohibited to provide security and quick access to park vessels for emergencies and safety to visitors in an area where lines and equipment may be on the dock.
- Fishing from the land bridge between Garden Key and the Bush Key sign on the harbor side only is permitted. To ensure safety and to avoid conflicting use, pedestrians have right of way over those engaged in fishing activities.
- Fishing is permitted from the two easternmost visitor courtesy piers, provided that they are not occupied by a private vessel. In that case, fishing by the occupants of the boat is permissible.
- Fishing from the main dock is allowed when the Yankee Freedom Ferry is not present. Fishing from the dinghy beach immediately adjacent to and east of the main dock is allowed.
- Fishing from the dinghy beach between the south coal dock ruins and the finger piers and west of the main pier is allowed.
- Fishing from the seaplane beach is allowed when the seaplane is not present.
- To protect government and personal property, all residential and administrative areas, as well as areas marked by barricades or signs are off-limits to the public.
- Government slips and associated docks on Garden Key are closed to public access to provide security and quick access to park vessels for emergencies and safety to visitors in an area where lines and equipment may be on the dock.
- The interior of the Fort is closed sunset to sunrise to protect residential quarters, government equipment, and historical resources. It also prohibits visitors from climbing on the walls and damaging resources or injuring themselves in the dark. The interior of the Fort, including stairwells, is unlit and the top of the Fort wall and the interior edges of the casemates have no safety rails.
- Long Key is closed to public visitation at all times. Long Key is a year-round nesting rookery for the Magnificent Frigate Bird. Frigate Birds are sensitive to human activity and may leave the area if disturbed.
- Bush Key is closed as designated for protection of the Sooty and Brown Noddy Terns during nesting season. This island is the site of the largest nesting colonies of these two species in the continental United States.
- Hospital Key, Middle Key and East Key are closed to protect nesting birds and nesting sea turtles. The Masked Booby colony can change nesting locations yearly and is facilitated by closing these keys. East and Middle Keys have been identified as critical nesting beaches for sea turtles. All sea turtles are listed on the Endangered Species List. The closure of these outlying keys may be seasonal in accordance with the Dry Tortugas Visitor Management Plan.
- The area designated as the “Shark Special Protection Zone” is closed to the public from June 1 through October 31. The area has been designated a “special protection zone” critical to nurse sharks during mating season.
- Specific prohibition of fires. 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.
- Prohibition of UAS. This restriction is necessary to prevent unacceptable impacts to park resources and values from the use of uncrewed aircraft. Potential impacts include disturbing visitors, creating public safety risks, disturbing wildlife, interfering with park operations, causing excessive noise, and impacting view sheds
Coral Special Protection Zone – The Coral Special Protection Zone (CSPZ) consists of a polygon for by narrow white cylindrical buoys at the following approximate coordinates:
| CSPZ 1 |
NAD83 17R 2724272, 310575 UTM |
| CSPZ 2 |
NAD83 17R 2724347, 310194 UTM |
| CSPZ 3 |
NAD83 17R 2724390, 310822 UTM |
| CSPZ 4 |
NAD83 17R 2724450, 310927 UTM |
| CSPZ 5 |
NAD83 17R 2724529, 311012 UTM |
| CSPZ 6 |
NAD83 17R 2724960, 310486 UTM |
| CSPZ 7 |
NAD83 17R 2724133, 311138 UTM |
| CSPZ 8 |
NAD83 17R 2724134, 311067 UTM |
| CSPZ 9 |
NAD83 17R 2724051, 310954 UTM |
| CSPZ 10 |
NAD83 17R 2723996, 310883 UTM |
Shark Special Protection Zone – The Shark Special Protection Zone (SSPZ) consists of a polygon formed by the exposed portion of Long Key Reef to the southeast and the narrow white cylindrical buoys to the northwest at the approximate coordinates below. The Shark Special Protection Zone shares a contiguous boundary with the Coral Special Protection Zone (CSPZ).
| SSPZ 1 |
NAD83 17R 2724695, 311191 UTM |
| SSPZ 2 |
NAD83 17R 2724598, 311155 UTM |
Designated Area for Public Assemblies and Sale/Distribution of Printed Matter –
The area designated for public assemblies and the sale or distribution of printed matter is permitted in land area of Garden Key bounded on the east by the walkway to the public docks, the north by the moat wall, the west by the campground, and the south by the shoreline, which forms a polygon with the following coordinate points:
| Northwest point |
NAD83 17R 2724971, 310395 UTM |
| Southwest point |
NAD83 17R 2724917, 310425 UTM |
| Northeast point |
NAD83 17R 2725012, 310459 UTM |
| Southeast point |
NAD83 17R 2724979, 310480 UTM |
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