FWC-permitted capture and relocation for builders and developers. Survey, permit, remove — one call, we handle it all. $1,400 per job (up to 2 tortoises).
The gopher tortoise is a protected species under Florida law. Disturbing, harming, or displacing a tortoise or its burrow without an FWC permit is a criminal offense that can halt construction and result in significant fines.
The legal path is straightforward: survey the site, apply for an FWC relocation permit, relocate the tortoises safely. We do all of it — and we do it fast enough to keep your construction timeline on track.
We are an FWC-authorized gopher tortoise agent, licensed to conduct surveys, apply for relocation permits, and perform legal capture and relocation across Charlotte County (Port Charlotte, Punta Gorda, Englewood, Rotonda West, Deep Creek, Murdock), Sarasota County (North Port, Wellen Park, Venice, Sarasota, Osprey, Nokomis), and Lee County (Lehigh Acres, Fort Myers, Cape Coral, North Fort Myers, Bonita Springs, Estero, Gateway, Alva).
From your first call to a cleared, construction-ready site — here's exactly how it works.
We walk the property, document all burrows, and prepare your FWC-format survey report. Delivered next business day.
We submit the relocation permit application to FWC using your survey data. We handle all the paperwork and follow up with the agency on your behalf.
FWC reviews and approves the permit. Typical review time is 2–6 weeks. We notify you immediately on approval.
Once permitted, we return to safely capture the tortoises and relocate them to an approved recipient site. Site is cleared and ready for construction.
Have a time-sensitive project? Contact us — we'll tell you realistically what the timeline looks like and work with you to minimize delays.
If your project involves clearing land in Southwest Florida, you likely need this.
Building a new home on a wooded or rural lot? If the site has potential GT habitat — sandy soil, scrub, or open areas — a survey is required before clearing.
Developing a commercial site in SW Florida? GT compliance is a standard part of the permitting process. We integrate with your existing permit timeline.
Clearing land for agricultural use may require survey and relocation depending on the site and intended use. We'll assess what's required.
Any significant ground disturbance in GT habitat requires compliance. Contact us before your site prep contractor mobilizes.
FWC allows two relocation methods. We'll advise which applies to your project.
Not sure which applies to your project? Ask us — we assess this during the survey.
Tell us your project address and timeline. We'll walk you through the process and get you scheduled.