Superintendent's Compendium

Dry Tortugas National Park Compendium 2026

CODE OF FEDERAL REGULATIONS TITLE 36 CHAPTER I

Compendium of Designations, Closures, Requests, Requirements and Other Restrictions imposed under the discretionary authority of the Superintendent, Everglades and Dry Tortugas National Parks

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 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.

1.5 – Visiting Hours, Public Use Limits, Closures, and Area Designations

36 CFR § 1.5(a)(1) The following visiting hours and public use limits are established for all or for the listed portions of the park, and the following closures are established for all or a portion of the park to all public use or to a certain use or activity.

To prevent conflict and hardship, on a case-by-case basis, any of the visiting hours, public use limits and closures described in this section may be further reduced or extended by the Superintendent or his/her designee for circumstances involving:

• Adverse weather conditions.
• Mechanical failure.
• Medical emergencies.
• Other public safety matters.

Visiting Hours

Visitors may enter or leave the park 24 hours a day except for areas within the park otherwise designated as closed throughout this document and as indicated below:

• The interior of Fort Jefferson on Garden Key is open during daylight hours only.
• The Garden Key Visitor Center is open from approximately 8:00am to 4:30pm.
• Park Headquarters on Garden Key is open from approximately 8:00am to 4:30pm.

Public Use Limits

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:
  1. From 10:00AM to 3:00PM, the eastern half of the main dock is reserved for the concession ferry.
  2. 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.
  3. Total allowable dock use for one day is two hours (cumulative) per vessel.
  4. 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:
  1. Total allowable dock use for one day is two hours (cumulative) per vessel.
  2. No overnight docking is permitted.
  3. Visitors must anchor at a designated dinghy beaches 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).

Bush Key

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.

Loggerhead Key

What restrictions apply on Loggerhead Key?

• Loggerhead Key is within the Research Natural Area (RNA) and therefore is closed to fishing and anchoring.
• Loggerhead Key is open from sunrise to sunset.
• 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.

Closures

What areas are closed to the public?

• Residential and service areas on all keys as designated closed by barricades or signs.
• Areas on all keys as designated closed by barricades or signs.
• Government slips and associated docks on Garden Key.
• Garden Key is open 24 hours except for the interior of Fort Jefferson (all areas beyond the wood bridge entering Fort Jefferson) which is closed from sunset to sunrise. In case of an emergency, visitors may enter the interior of the fort to summon assistance.
• 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 1. (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 and Related Activities

The following types of filming activities may occur in areas open to the public without a permit and without advance notice to the NPS: The organizer of any other type of filming activity must provide written notice to the Superintendent at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity. Based upon the information provided, the Superintendent may require the organizer to apply for and obtain a permit if necessary to:

• maintain public health and safety;
• protect environmental or scenic values;
• protect natural or cultural resources;
• allow for equitable allocation and use of facilities; or
• avoid conflict among visitor use activities.

If the Superintendent determines that the terms and conditions of a permit could not mitigate the concerns identified above in an acceptable manner, the Superintendent may deny a filming request without issuing a permit. The Superintendent will provide the basis for denial in writing upon request. All inquiries regarding filming, or filming permits, should be directed to [e-mail].

Any transportation or guide services hired by entities or individuals engaged in filming must be approved and licensed by the NPS. A list of licensed guides and related services will be furnished upon request. If a required business or service is not available or currently licensed by the NPS, a request for the service or business will be submitted to the NPS for review at least 10 days prior to the start of the proposed activity.

The NPS will consider requests and process permit applications in a timely manner. Processing times will vary depending on the complexity of the proposed activity. If the organizer provides the required 10-day advance notice to the NPS and has not received a written response from the NPS that a permit is required prior to the first day of production, the proposed filming activities may occur without a permit.

The following are prohibited:

• Engaging in a filming activity without providing advance notice to the Superintendent when required.
• Engaging in a filming activity without a permit if the activity takes place in areas managed as wilderness or if the Superintendent has notified the organizer in writing that a permit is required.
• Violating a term and condition of a permit issued under this action. Violating a term or condition of a permit issued under to this action may also result in the suspension and revocation of the permit by the Superintendent.

Fishing and Related Activities

What restrictions apply to fishing?

• Fishing off the Garden Key Dock when the concession ferry is docked is prohibited.
• Fishing from Bush Key is prohibited.
• Fishing within the Research Natural Area, including Loggerhead Key, is prohibited.
• Only legally obtained finfish and shrimp may be caught and reduced to harvest. This includes wildlife reduced to harvest for use as bait.
• To ensure safety and to avoid conflicting use, pedestrians have right of way over those engaged in fishing activities.

Fishing

What restrictions apply to fishing?

• Fishing off the Garden Key Dock when the concession ferry is docked is prohibited.
• Fishing from Bush Key is prohibited.
• Fishing within the Research Natural Area, including Loggerhead Key, is prohibited.

Food and Drink

• With the exception of drinking water in non-disposable containers, 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 dish washing 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

• Glass containers are prohibited on all islands, except within designated campsites on Garden Key.

Mooring Balls

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 damages 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.

Swimming, Snorkeling and Diving

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.
• Entering or exiting the water to swim, dive or snorkel off any shore of Garden Key, outside the designated swim area is prohibited.
• 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.

UAS (Unmanned Aircraft System)

Under the authority of 36 CFR 1.5, the lands and waters within the boundaries of the Dry Tortugas National Park are closed to the use of unmanned aircraft and systems except as provided for in this section. Launching, landing, or operating an uncrewed or remotely piloted 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.

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.

1.6 – Activities That Require Special Use Permits

Under the authority of 36 CFR §1.6, when authorized by regulations set forth in 36 CFR, the superintendent may issue a permit to authorize an otherwise prohibited or restricted activity or impose a public use limit.

The following is a compilation of those activities for which a special use permit or still photography and audio recording permit. Permits which can be obtained at Garden Key at the Dry Tortugas National Park are indicated by “(Obtained at Garden Key)”.

Unless indicated below as “(Obtained at Garden Key)” or “(Obtained from Park Manager prior to arrival by calling 305-224-4222)”, all other permits must be obtained from the Superintendent, Everglades National Park, prior to arriving at Dry Tortugas National Park.

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 institutions and 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

See applicable sections of the Superintendent's Compendium for specific restrictions and permit requirements.

Sea Grapes and Coconuts

See applicable natural resource provisions contained in this Compendium.

2.2 – Wildlife Protection

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).
• (e) – The use of high intensity artificial lights such as spot or flood vessel deck lights, stern and underwater illumination is prohibited.

2.10 – Camping

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.
• 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.

2.13 – Fires

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 in the 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 owners discretion.

• All ground fires are prohibited regardless of location or intent.

2.14 – Sanitation

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.

2.15 – Pets

What restrictions apply to pets?

• (a)(1) – Pets are allowed on Garden Key but must remain outside Fort Jefferson (not beyond the wooden bridge) and be on a leash at all times.
• (a)(1) – 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.

2.17 – Aircraft and Air Delivery

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. Contact Special Use Permitting Office at Everglades National Park for special use permit.
• (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.

2.21 – Smoking

What restrictions apply to smoking?

• (a) – All federal buildings, the wooden bridge spanning the moat, the interior of Fort Jefferson 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) are closed to smoking. This restriction also applies to electronic smoking devices.

2.22 – Property

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.

7.27 – Special Regulations

Corals and Other Underwater Natural Features

How are corals and other underwater natural features protected in the park?

• 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.

Appendices

Appendix A – Bush and Long Key Buffer Zone Buoys

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.

Appendix B – Designated Area for Public Assemblies and Sale/Distribution of Printed Matter

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.

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.

Appendix C – Amateur Radio Operation

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.

Amateur radio operators must possess a valid FCC or reciprocal international Amateur Radio Operator license issued by a competent authority.

Appendix D – Required Vessel Clearance from Seaplane Mooring Beach

Vessels must maintain a clearance of 200 feet from the designated seaplane beach. Vessels may not anchor within 200 feet of the seaplane beach.

Appendix E – Aircraft Operations

Regulations Regarding Flights over Charted National Park Service Areas, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service Areas, and U.S. Forest Service Areas.

Appendix F – Statements of Finding in Support of Closures

On January 19, 2007, special regulations for Dry Tortugas National Park (DRTO) went into effect. They are codified in 36 CFR §7.27.

Appendix G – Coordinate Descriptions for Closures and Special Use Areas

Coral Special Protection Zone

The Coral Special Protection Zone (CSPZ) consists of a polygon formed by narrow white cylindrical buoys at the coordinates provided in the signed Compendium.

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.

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 the land area of Garden Key described in the signed Compendium.