Scientific Research and Collection Permits

A person holds a banded shorebird.
Researchers carefully attached tracking bands to Snowy Plovers.

NPS Photo

Research Permit Application

Scientific research and collecting permits are required by all individuals seeking to conduct scientific studies in Gulf Islands National Seashore. Apply for a Research Permit on Research Permit and Reporting System (RPRS)

Research Permit Policy
The policy of the National Park Service is to support and encourage natural and social science studies, provided that these studies enhance the understanding of a park's natural, cultural, and social resources, processes, and values, or serve to assess how use of the park impacts the ecosystem.

Research Permit Statutes, Policies, & Laws
Although studies conducted by outside investigators are not required to focus on specific NPS issues, all studies must be consistent with NPS statutes, policies, and environmental laws that govern research on NPS lands.

Research Permit Review Process
Research permit applications and proposals go through a review process in order to ensure that all proposed research studies for Gulf Islands National Seashore (GUIS) comply with NPS statutes and policies, that park resources and values are not impaired, and that park visitors are not unduly impacted by the proposed activities.

Research Permit Renewal
Research permits are issued for up to one calendar year. Learn when and how to renew a research permit.

Important Information: Gulf Islands National Seashore property extends one mile from land into the water.
Park Boundry: Maps - Gulf Islands National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service)

Last updated: February 13, 2025

Park footer

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

1801 Gulf Breeze Parkway
Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Phone:

850-934-2600

Contact Us