Tortugas North Access Permits

The sun setting behind a brick archway overlooking the sea — Beyond Fort Jefferson and Loggerhead Key in the distance lies the Tortugas Conservation Area. Photo: NOAA

Visitors wishing to stop in the Tortugas North Conservation Area section of the Tortugas Conservation Area or tie up to the reserve's mooring buoys must obtain a free, no-paperwork entry permit. Permits must be requested at least 72 hours, prior to planned entry into the area. The maximum duration of any permit is two weeks.

Stopping in Tortugas North Conservation Area without a permit is not allowed. Permitted visitors to Tortugas North Conservation Area must use one of the mooring buoys provided by the sanctuary. Mooring buoys are available on a first come, first serve basis. Anchoring is prohibited. Diving and snorkeling are allowed.

Vessels may not stop in the Tortugas South Conservation Area, but may pass through the area without interruption with fishing gear stowed, meaning that the gear is not available for immediate use.

Apply for a Tortugas North Conservation Access Permit
To obtain a free, no-paperwork access permit, email TortugasNorthPermit@noaa.gov. Please provide the following information:

Vessel name
Name, address, and telephone number of owner and operator
Name, address, and telephone number of applicant
USCG documentation, state license, or registration number
Home port
Length of vessel and propulsion type (i.e., motor or sail)
Number of divers
Requested effective date (date of ingress) and date of egress. General permits for Tortugas North Conservation Area Access shall be issued for a period not exceeding two weeks.
Dry Tortugas National Park Permits

For information about the Dry Tortugas National Park, their permitting process, anchoring, etc. call 305-224-4255 or hail the park on VHF radio Channels 10 and 16.