Primitive Camping at Shell Key Preserve
As detailed in the Shell Key Management Plan, a no-cost permit is now required to camp. A "leave no trace" camping ethic is expected at all times from visitors to the Preserve. There are no facilities at Shell Key Preserve, and campers are required to bring, use, and remove portable toilets. Camping is allowed only in the southern Public Use Area. Within this designated area, there are no defined campsites so visitors are free to select a camping location of their choice.

Campfires and other open fires are restricted to the designated southern Public Use Area. Do not place glass, cans, nails, and other debris in campfires. Grills do not fall under the definition of open fires and are allowed in all public use areas. A limited amount of free firewood (stacked but not split), the result of efforts to remove exotic trees, is periodically available to campers on a first-come-first-served basis. Other vegetation, living or dead, may not be burned or otherwise disturbed.

Rules
Camping rules are clearly stated on the permit and are listed below. Campers must abide by these rules at all times. Those who choose to violate the Preserve's rules are at risk of being fined by the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office. Each permittee must indicate that they, and the members of their party, will comply with all rules.

• Alcohol and pets are prohibited at all times in the Preserve.
• Camping is permitted in the designated Camping Area only.
• Campers must have a portable toilet and remove all waste upon departure.
• Duration of stay cannot exceed 14 days.
• Permittee is responsible for everyone in their party.
• Permittee must possess photo identification and a valid, signed camping permit while camping.
• Fires are permitted in the designated Camping Area only.
• Do not put glass, cans, nails or other debris in fires.
• Do not remove or disturb any vegetation.
• Groups of 50 or more require a large-group permit (Call the Environmental Lands Division at (727) 453-6900 during normal working hours for more information).

Obtaining a Permit
A camping permit may be obtained in a number of ways. Regardless of the approach, permittees must have a valid, signed permit and photo identification in their possession while camping. To be considered valid, a permit must:

1. Include complete and accurate camper information that has been received by the Environmental Lands Division.
2. Apply to dates prior to 16 March 2009.
3. Conform to restrictions regarding the maximum party size and maximum number of consecutive days.
4. Be signed by the permittee.

Download Adobe Acrobat Reader

   Via the internet (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

• Download the Camping Permit form; Acrobat Reader or equivalent is required.
• Type in the information required for each text field.
• Press the SUBMIT button near the bottom of the form.
• Follow instructions to complete the submission of information to the Environmental Lands Division via email.
• Print the completed form.
• Read the rules and sign to acknowledge acceptance.
• Take the signed camping permit, along with photo identification, with you while camping.

   Via FAX or scan/email (available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week)

• Download the Camping Permit form; Acrobat Reader or equivalent is required.
• Print the form.
• Hand print or type the information required.
• Read the rules and sign to acknowledge acceptance.
• Fax the signed, completed form to the Environmental Lands Division FAX: (727) 453-6902. Alternatively you may scan the signed, completed form and email it to the Environmental Lands Division at eld@pinellascounty.org.
• Take the signed camping permit, along with photo identification, with you while camping.

   Via United States Postal Service (must be completed at least 3 days in advance of    desired camping date)

• Download the Camping Permit form; Acrobat Reader or equivalent is required.
• Print the form.
• Hand print or type the information required.
• Read the rules and sign to acknowledge acceptance.
• Make a copy of signed, completed form.
• Mail the copy to the Environmental Lands Division, 3620 Fletch Haven Drive, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688.
• Take the signed camping permit, along with photo identification, with you while camping.

   Via telephone (must be completed during normal working hours in advance of desired    camping date)

• Phone the Environmental Lands Division at (727) 453-6900 during normal working hours (M-F, 8 am to 5 pm).
• Provide required information to the staff member, who will then print out the completed form.
• Visit the Environmental Lands Division at 3620 Fletch Haven Drive, Tarpon Springs, FL 34688 during normal working hours.
• Read the rules and sign to acknowledge acceptance.
• Take the signed camping permit, along with photo identification, with you while camping.

Please respect and appreciate this wonderful natural resource known as Shell Key Preserve as you enjoy your camping experience!

Shell Key Preserve is a sensitive environmental area that deserves public vigilance and care. The privilege of camping carries the responsibility of good stewardship so that the islands and waterways remain intact for future generations. Through your actions, Shell Key Preserve can remain a welcoming place for generations to come.

E-mail addresses are public records under Florida law and are not exempt from public-records requirements. If you do not want your e-mail address to be subject to being released pursuant to a public-records request, do not send electronic mail to this entity. Instead, contact this office by telephone (727) 464-4761 or in writing, via the United States Postal Service.

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