Protecting Florida’s Wildlife While Building Your Dream Fence: A Guide to Lake County’s Endangered Species Nesting Seasons

When planning your fence installation in Central Florida, timing isn’t just about your schedule—it’s about respecting the delicate balance between development and wildlife conservation. Lake County is home to more than 200 different species of birds, many of which are protected during critical nesting periods. Understanding these seasonal restrictions can save you time, money, and help preserve Florida’s precious wildlife heritage.

Understanding Florida’s Endangered Species Landscape

Florida’s imperiled species are fish and wildlife species that meet criteria to be listed as federally endangered, federally threatened or State-designated Threatened. The state takes wildlife protection seriously, with approximately 50 or more threatened or endangered animal species found throughout Central Florida counties like Lake County. Due to the rapid rate of development in Florida and subsequent habitat loss and fragmentation, some of our most prized wildlife is declining.

For property owners planning fence installations, this means understanding that your project may need to work around protected species’ nesting seasons. If the project is on property in unincorporated Lee County that is over 5 acres, over 2 acres on Pine Island, or any property on a barrier island, then a permit is required for the removal of vegetation and protection of endangered species. While this specifically references Lee County, similar considerations apply throughout Florida’s counties.

Key Nesting Seasons to Consider in Lake County

Several species in Central Florida have specific nesting seasons that can impact construction activities:

• Sea Turtles: Nesting season in Brevard County is March 1 – October 31 each year, and similar timeframes apply throughout coastal Florida.
• Bald Eagles: Identification of bald eagle nests, wading bird rookeries and other sensitive areas to avoid conducting land management activities during the breeding season and sensitive times of the year is crucial for compliance.
• Sandhill Cranes: Sandhill Cranes will normally mate for life (monogamous) and will lay one or two eggs on their nest, which is often on the waters edge for protection from predators.
• Snail Kites: Snail kites breed from December to August, laying an average of three eggs.

Permitting and Compliance Requirements

Florida’s regulatory framework requires careful consideration of endangered species impacts. The Commission may issue permits authorizing incidental take of State-designated Threatened Species upon a conclusion that the following permitting standards have been met, but the process involves demonstrating that the permitted activity will not have a negative impact on the survival potential of the species.

For fence installation projects, Natural Resources: Verify that the proposed work will not impact a protected species (such as scrub jays, gopher tortoises, etc.) is part of the standard review process in many Florida counties. This includes coastal lighting impact on sea turtles for properties near water.

Working with Professional Fence Contractors

Choosing the right fence contractor becomes even more critical when navigating endangered species regulations. Mossy Oak Fence is a full-service fence design and installation contractor located in Central Florida. Our company can trace its roots back to 1992, when we started as a residential fence installers in the Metro Atlanta market.

What sets professional contractors like Mossy Oak Fence apart is their understanding of local regulations and commitment to responsible practices. At the heart of our Core Values are: GOD, FAMILY, COUNTRY & BUSINESS. We labor daily to keep our perspectives centered on these values from a standpoint of balance and serving as a blessing to others. This values-driven approach extends to environmental stewardship and regulatory compliance.

Based in 271 Southridge Industrial Dr, Tavares, Mossy Oak Fence serves the Lake County area with expertise in navigating local permitting requirements. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and high-quality materials, they have been recognized as one of Orlando’s best fence companies. Mossy Oak Fence is committed to providing customer-centered service, quick installations, and extensive warranties.

Best Practices for Environmentally Conscious Fence Installation

When planning your fence installation lake county,FL project, consider these wildlife-friendly approaches:

• Seasonal Planning: Schedule major construction activities outside of critical nesting seasons when possible
• Site Assessment: Conduct thorough surveys to identify potential protected species habitat before beginning work
• Minimal Impact Design: Choose fence designs and installation methods that minimize habitat disruption
• Professional Consultation: Work with experienced contractors who understand local wildlife regulations

The Value of Professional Expertise

Mossy Oak Fence’s # 1 priority is CUSTOMER SATISFACTION! From the first phone call to the very final walk through and approval, Mossy Oak Fence is committed to make your fence purchase an experience that you will enjoy long after our work is complete. This commitment includes ensuring all regulatory requirements are met.

Whatever you do, DO NOT select a fence company based on price alone. There are many unlicensed and uninsured fence installers all throughout Tavares offering low ball prices and low quality materials and workmanship that will cost you a lot more in the short and long run. Professional contractors understand the complexities of working around protected species regulations, potentially saving you from costly delays or violations.

Conclusion

Successfully navigating Lake County’s endangered species nesting seasons while completing your fence installation requires careful planning, professional expertise, and a commitment to environmental stewardship. By understanding seasonal restrictions, working with knowledgeable contractors, and prioritizing wildlife protection, you can achieve your fencing goals while contributing to Florida’s conservation efforts.

The key is partnering with experienced professionals who understand both the technical aspects of fence installation and the regulatory landscape surrounding wildlife protection. This approach ensures your project proceeds smoothly while respecting the natural heritage that makes Central Florida such a unique and beautiful place to call home.