Permitting is a necessary but often time consuming endeavor for any research project. At KML we are with in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (FKNMS), adjacent to the Everglades National Park (ENP), as well as in State of Florida waters permitted by Florida Fish and Wildlife Commission (FWC). Depending on your project goals you will probably need permits or licenses from one or all of these entities.
In addition to permitting from these governmental entities Keys Marine Lab is an AAALAC accredited satellite research station of the University of South Florida. As such any projects involving vertebrate animals and requiring IACUC protocols, will require additional screening by USF/KML IACUC. The guide below is to help make this process as easy as possible.
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact our IACUC and Permitting Coordinator, Cynthia Lewis. We want to make sure you can conduct your research or class to your satisfaction.
Please also refer to our Guidelines for Sampling & Collecting in the Florida Keys for further information.
All waters surrounding KML are a part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Will your project disturb the benthic habitat in any way?
This includes deploying non-permanent equipment on the sea floor. (ex: transect tapes)
Will your project be taking place with in a designated Marine Zone?
FKNMS regulates the benthos of the park as well as certain limited access zones that require special permitting.
Application Processing Time: 30-90 Business Days
FKNMS Permitting Contact Information
Email: Dr. Harrison Albert
Phone: 786-243-6037
Will your project take place within Everglades National Park?
Everglades National Park extends south into the Florida Bay, the southern boundary is less then three miles north of KML.
Any research activities within the park’s boundaries require a permit with few exceptions.
NPS Application Processing Time: 60 Business Days
ENPS Contact Information
Phone: (305) 242-7700
Are your organisms regulated by the State of Florida?
You most likely will require a:
or
FWC Special Activities License (SAL).
SAL Processing Time: 60 Business Days
SAL Contact Information
Email: SAL@MyFWC.com
Phone: 850-487-0554
KML is an AAALAC accredited satellite research facility of the University of South Florida. As such we require research and education groups at KML to provide their approved IACUC Protocol from their home institution for KML/FIO review and approval.
At least 45 business days before your project start date please submit PDFs of the following:
Please email these to our IACUC Coordinator, Cynthia Lewis, at least 45 business days prior to the project start date to allow adequate time for the KML/USF IACUC review process.
Some projects may require more time and information. If you are planning an IACUC regulated project with KML please contact us as soon as possible, to determine the specific approval process for your project.