avon park air force range
TRANSCRIPT
Public Recreation Area
Regulation Summary
2021 – 2022 Season
Avon Park
Air Force Range
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Welcome to the Avon Park Air Force Range
Outdoor Recreation Contact Information
Unexploded Ordnance (UXO)
Public Recreation Area PermitsPRA Permit Requirements
PRA Hunt Permits
Seasonal Recreation Permits
PRA Guest Permits
Public Recreation Area RegulationsPRA Access Procedures
PRA Vehicle Use
General Regulations
Camping Regulations
Fishing Regulations
General Hunting Regulations
Permissible Firearms & Weapons
General Use of Dogs
Limited Entry Quota Hunts
Hunt Season Dates
Non-Game Wildlife Regulations
Glossary of TermsPRA Permit FeesPublic Management Unit Map
Contents
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This publication is designed to provide the public with a summary of the rules and regulations pertaining to hunting and recreational use on the Public Recreation Area at the Avon Park Air Force Range and is by nature not comprehensive. The information in this publication refers to the comprehensive copy of the Operating Instructions (OI), which is available for viewing during regular office hours at the Outdoor Recreation Office, as well as on the official Outdoor Recreation Program website at: https://avon.isportsman.net
COMPLIANCE WITH THIS PUBLICATION IS MANDATORY.
Failure to comply will result in a warning or suspension of recreation privileges.
Welcome to the Avon Park Air Force Range
Outdoor Recreation Office
29 South Boulevard
Avon Park AFR, FL 33825
Office: (863) 452-4254
Cell: (863) 449-0138
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://avon.isportsman.net
Facebook: http://facebook.com/groups/APAFROutdoorRec
Catherine Justice: Program Manager / Wildlife Biologist
Melissa Hoffman: Park Ranger / Financial Officer
Patrick Blake: Park Ranger / Volunteer Coordinator
Brenda Reynolds: Park Ranger
Lt. Col. Steven C. Thomas, USAFInstallation Commander
OUTDOOR RECREATION STAFF
OUTDOOR RECREATION CONTACT INFORMATION
The Outdoor Recreation Program uses a web-based permit sales system available 24 hours a day & 365
days a year. This user-friendly interface, called iSportsman, allows recreationists to purchase permits
using credit or debit cards from anywhere an internet connection is available.
iSportsman is found at: https://avon.isportsman.net
The Avon Park Air Force Range has been used as an active bombing and gunnery range for over 60 years.
Although this is primarily a training facility using training ordnance, it is important to remember that
“practice bombs” still contain live explosives.
All persons who are permitted access to the Range are hereby warned they may encounter unexploded
ordnance (bullets, bombs, rockets, flares, etc.) in the areas that are open to the public. This UXO may be on
the surface, or it may be partially or completely buried. Report the location and description of the UXO to
the Outdoor Recreation Office (863-452-4254), Range Control (863-452-4176), or Rescue Ops
(863-452-4225).
IF IT IS MAN-MADE, AVOID IT!
IF YOU DID NOT DROP IT, DO NOT PICK IT UP!
DIGGING AND/OR ALL FORMS OF GROUND DISTURBANCE
ARE STRICTLY PROHIBITED
REMEMBER, DO NOT:
• APPROACH IT
• TOUCH IT
• DISTURB IT
• USE RADIOS NEAR IT
• USE CELL PHONES NEAR IT
REMEMBER, DO:
• MARK THE AREA
• LEAVE THE AREA
• REPORT IT
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Public recreational access to APAFR is subject to safety and military security restrictions and at such times as access can be granted without
impairment of military missions, as determined by the Installation Commander. Please remember, public access to APAFR is a PRIVILEGE and comes
secondary to the requirements of the military mission.
Public Recreation Area Permits
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A. PRA Permit RequirementsRefer to Section 6.3. in OI
A1. All individuals 18 years of age or older (on or before 01 September of
the permitted hunting year) are required to purchase a Permit to access
Avon Park Air Force Range.
A2. An appropriate photo ID card identifying the status of the bearer shall
be presented when purchasing any Permit from the Outdoor Recreation
Office. All persons 16 years or older shall carry some form of current
photographic identification while on the installation.
A3. Proof of completion of a state-certified Hunter Education Course is
required for Hunt Permit Holders born on or after 01 June 1975, and their
Guests or Dependents ages 16 or older, hunting in the PRA. The State
Deferral Program does not apply.
A3.1. Children under age 16 shall hunt as a Dependent with adult
supervision without a Hunter Education Course or Florida hunting
license.
A4. Purchase of any Permit certifies that the individual named on the
Permit has signed a Release of Liability and a statement that he/she
understands and will abide by these regulations. The U.S. Air Force is not
responsible for the personal property of Permit Holders.
A5. All Permit Holders (Hunt, Companion, Seasonal Recreation, Guest, etc.)
shall receive an Annual Safety Briefing prior to receiving a Permit.
A6. A valid Florida hunting license with appropriate stamps, resident senior
citizen certificate, or resident disabled person certificate, is required for
PRA Hunt Permit Holders, unless the Permit Holder is a Florida resident on
active military duty not currently stationed in Florida while home on leave
with orders for 30 days or less.
A8. All children under the age of 18 shall have a signed and notarized
Parental Consent Form on file, unless they are under the direct control of
a Permit Holder who is his/her legal guardian.
A9. All persons under the age of 18 must ride in the same vehicle as a
Permit Holder.
A10. All Permits are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
A11. All Permits shall be purchased through https://avon.isportsman.net
B. PRA Hunt PermitsRefer to Section 8.1. in OI
B1. Hunt Permits shall be purchased on a first-come, first-served basis
after the end of Spring Turkey Season until designated by the Program
Manager of the Outdoor Recreation Program, or until such times as all
available Permits are sold (whichever comes first). Copies of all
regulations are available at the office or can be downloaded from
https://avon.isportsman.net
B2. Hunt Permits and Companion Permits are valid from 01 September – 31
August.
B2.1. Hunt Permit Holders shall hunt, fish, camp, or engage in any
permitted recreational activity. A Hunt Permit Holder may bring
up to three children under the age of 18. No more than one
underage child shall carry a firearm while hunting with the Permit
Holder. One Companion Permit, Hunt or Non-Hunt, may be
purchased per Hunt Permit Holder.
B2.2. Companion Hunt Permit Holders shall hunt, fish, camp, or
engage in any permitted recreational activity. A Companion Hunt
Permit Holder may bring in up to three children under the age of 18.
No more than one underage child shall carry a firearm while
hunting with the Permit Holder. Companion Hunt Permit Holders
shall bring in Guests as
stated in Section D.
B2.3. Companion Non-
Hunt Permit Holders shall
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fish at Ponds 1, 2, 3, Tomlin Hammock Lake, or the Kissimmee River, camp, hike, or ride in the vehicle, with a Hunt Permit Holder, but shall not
participate in the take of wildlife. Companion Non-Hunt Permit Holders shall not bring in Guests.
B2.4. Military-discounted PRA Hunt Permit Holders and Military-discounted PRA Companion Hunt Permit Holders are allowed all the activities as a
Hunt Permit Holder (see para B2.1. and B2.2.). Military-discounted PRA Companion Non-Hunt Permit Holders are allowed all the activities as a
Companion Non-Hunt Permit Holder (see para B2.3.).
B3. For general Permit requirements, refer to Section A.
B4. Each Hunt Permit Holder will be issued a vehicle pass and a Public Recreation Area Hunt Permit. The vehicle pass must be clearly displayed on the
driver’s side of the front windshield near the dashboard, and the Permit must be in the Permit Holder’s possession whenever he/she is on the
installation.
C. Seasonal Recreation PermitsRefer to Section 8.2. in OI
C1. A Seasonal Recreation Permit allows the Permit Holder to use any open PRA Management Units
for all forms of outdoor recreation, except hunting or any other activities excluded in this
instruction.
C2. Seasonal Recreation Permits are valid from 01 February – 31 August.
VISIT MyFWC.COM
FOR STATE-WIDE
FISHING BAG
LIMITS
D. PRA Guest PermitsRefer to Section 8.4. in OI
D1. Each Hunt Permit Holder (host) is allowed a maximum of one Hunt Guest per weekend while hunting. An additional fee will apply for each adult Guest.
D1.1. Hunt Guests are not permitted the first weekend of each hunt season and the first four weekends of Spring Turkey Season. The receipt
printed from iSportsman is the Guest Permit and shall remain on the Guest’s person while on the installation. Guest Permits follow all
requirements in Section A.
D1.2. An individual Hunt Guest may hunt a maximum of three weekends during a single permit year (01 Sep – 31 Aug).
D2. All Permit Holders are responsible for their Guest(s) whenever they are on the installation and the Guest shall be under the direct control of the
Permit Holder. Direct control is herein defined as being within visual or voice range (radios are acceptable if hunting in the same Management Unit).
The Permit Holder is liable for all the actions of his/her Guest(s) and of any children
under the age of 18 while on the installation. Failure to properly escort and supervise
any Guest(s) will result in suspension of all privileges for the Permit Holder.
D2.1. Both the Hunt Permit Holder (host) and Guest(s) shall be present at the
time of entry onto Avon Park Air Force Range. Guest Permits must be
purchased, and all requirements met no later than Thursday at 2:00 PM to
guarantee pick-up for the upcoming weekend.
D2.2. Guest Permit Holders shall follow the sign-in and sign-out procedures
as stated in Section E.
D2.3. All Guest(s) and Permit Holder (host) shall enter and exit the Avon Park
AFR together and shall share a street-legal vehicle while using the Public
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Recreation Area. Guest vehicles shall be stored at the Outdoor Recreation Office for the duration of the Guest(s)’ visit to the installation.
D2.4. Guest Permits are non-refundable and non-transferrable.
E. PRA Access ProceduresRefer to Section 8.5. in OI
E1. PRA Permit Holders shall enter and exit the installation only at the
designated access points when open to the public. Designated access
points are Gate 2 (600 Gate), North Frostproof Gate (when open) and
the Kissimmee River boat ramp (see para E2.).
E1.1. Each Permit Holder must have a current Permit, vehicle
decal and valid photo ID ready for the gate guard at the time of
entry. Gate guards have the authority to refuse entry to any
individuals who cannot present proper identification and permit
documentation. A vehicle decal alone is not sufficient proof of a
Permit Holder’s status for range access. See para F3. for
instructions of Permit Holders without a current vehicle decal at
time of entry.
E2. Permit Holders may utilize the Kissimmee River boat ramp and access
the Avon Park AFR via the boat ramp, provided the Permit Holder is already
signed in at either the Outdoor Recreation Office or the North Frostproof
Gate (when open). Once on the river, Permit Holders are not required to
sign in again. However, Permit Holders shall be signed out and off
property, along with their tow vehicle, by the posted closing time for
Management Units 10 and 10A. Only Permit Holders who follow these
procedures shall access U.S. Air Force property from the Kissimmee River
boat ramp.
E2.1. Mooring boats is prohibited outside of the designated
boundaries of Fort Kissimmee Campground and Fort Kissimmee
Cemetery. Mooring is only permitted to Permit Holders following
access procedures outlined in para E2.
E3. Upon entering the installation, Permit Holders shall proceed directly to
the PRA sign-in station at Building 600.
E4. The following sign-in procedures shall be observed by all Permit
Holders:
Follow the correct flow of traffic around the check-in location ( ) at Building 600. All Permit Holders are required to sign in and sign out at this location every time they enter the installation.
To avoid delays, have your Permit(s) ready for inspection so that the gate guards may sign you in/out.
As a reminder, the vehicle decal IS NOT a Permit and does not grant access. [para E1.1.]
E4.1. Check the status map (located at Willingham and Morgan Hole
Campgrounds). This map identifies which Management Units are
open. Public and/or vehicular access is prohibited in PRA Units
temporarily closed by administrative action because of public
safety concern due to disasters, severe weather or severe
weather forecasts and/or effects of the weather on a Management
Unit. Public notice of such closures will be posted through methods
outlined in para E5.
The following sections provide a summary of rule and regulations for the Public Recreation Area (PRA). As mentioned before, this document is not
comprehensive. References to the corresponding section in the official Operating Instructions (OI) are provided under each heading.
Public Recreation Area Regulations
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E4.2. Check the Forecast Sheet and read all recreational notes. Range schedule changes occur. It is the Permit Holder’s responsibility to check
the Management Unit status each day. Information kiosks are provided at the Willingham and Morgan Hole Campgrounds.
E4.3. Permit Holders who fail to sign in or out are subject to having their
recreational privileges revoked.
E4.4 Access for recreational activities is always subject to limitations based on the
military mission and hunting season. As such, public access may be permitted Friday.
Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, or as authorized by the Installation Commander.
E4.5. If for some reason a Permit Holder fails to sign out, he/she must call the
Outdoor Recreation Office immediately at (863) 449-0138 or (863) 452-4254 or send
an email with his/her full name and Permit number to [email protected].
E5. For planning purposes, a website (https://avon.isportsman.net/pra-schedule.aspx),
Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/APAFROutdoorRec) and a telephone recording
(863-452-4254, option 1), are updated weekly with public access information.
E6. Should Permit Holders hear three blasts from an air horn while on the installation, they
shall return to their vehicles immediately. Updated information will be posted at the information
kiosks at Willingham and Morgan Hole Campgrounds.
E6.1. Permit Holders shall park their vehicles on the same side of the road as the
Management Unit they are entering.
E7. If someone needs to contact a Permit Holder in case of an emergency, they may call the
Outdoor Recreation Office at (863) 449-0138 or (863) 452-4254. They must have the following
information available: Permit number, type of vehicle, tag number, and campground being
used.
E8. If any kind of medical emergency occurs while on the Range, Permit Holders shall call Rescue Ops at (863) 452-4117, then notify Outdoor Recreation
immediately. In all cases, Rescue Ops can respond faster than calling 911.
E9. For any non-medical emergency issues, call the Outdoor
Recreation Office at (863) 452-4254 during posted office hours. For
issues after hours, call Rescue Ops at the non-emergency phone
number: (863) 452-4225. For issues with Gate 2 (600 Gate) when
Outdoor Recreation is open to the public, call (863) 449-0138.
E10. On a closing night Permit Holders shall exit the Range before the
designated exit time regardless of their activities at that time. This
includes (but is not limited to) fishing, hiking, pursuing wounded game,
or in the event of a vehicle breakdown.
Sample Forecast Sheet
Review the Forecast Sheet before you depart for the installation for the most up-to-date information.
Schedule changes can occur on short notice. See para E5. for more information.
IN CASE OF
CALL RESCUE OPS: (863) 452-4117
THEY WILL RESPOND FASTER THAN CALLING 911
F1. Each annual Permit Holder will be issued a Vehicle Permit in the form of a decal. This decal shall be permanently affixed to the outside driver’s side
windshield of the Permit Holder’s vehicle. The Permit Holder will be held accountable for the actions of all individuals operating or riding in a vehicle
bearing his/her vehicle decal. If the vehicle bearing the decal is sold or transferred to another individual, the decal shall be removed before the vehicle
leaves the Permit Holder’s possession, and the decal (whole or in pieces) returned to the Outdoor Recreation Office. An administrative fee will be
charged for the replacement of the vehicle decal. The maximum number of decals per Permit Holder is two.
F2. The loan or transfer of a vehicle decal is prohibited.
F3. If a Permit Holder wishes to bring a vehicle on the installation that does not have a vehicle decal, he/she shall enter through the Main Gate and
proceed directly to the Outdoor Recreation Office to obtain a temporary vehicle pass. In the event the Outdoor Recreation Office is closed, the vehicle will
be denied entry. Vehicles shall not enter the Public Recreation Area without a vehicle decal or temporary vehicle pass. To obtain a temporary vehicle
pass, update your account information at https://avon.isportsman.net prior to Thursday at 2:00 PM. All Permit Holders shall produce a driver’s license,
vehicle registration and proof of insurance upon pick-up of a temporary vehicle pass.
F4. Annual Permit Holders are responsible for removing and destroying all vehicle decals at the end of the season. The vehicle decal is the property of
the U.S. Air Force until it is destroyed.
F5. While on the installation, all individuals shall have appropriate licenses, registrations and proof of insurance in their possession and shall display them
on request to any personnel of the Outdoor Recreation Program, any Avon Park Air Force Range representative (military or civilian), or any county, state
or federal law enforcement personnel.
F6. By accepting any APAFR Permit and vehicle decal/temporary vehicle pass, Permit Holders give consent to have their vehicle searched while on the
installation. If a vehicle is towed or impounded, Permit Holders agree to reimburse the towing agent on behalf of the vehicle owner/operator.
F7. All state and federal laws shall be obeyed while on the installation. Obey all posted speed limits. If not posted, the speed limits are: 35 mph for paved
roads and 25 mph for unimproved roads.
F8. Military, Air Force contractor and official AF Program vehicles always have the
right-of-way.
F9. Vehicles shall be operated only on roads designated on the current year Public
Recreation Area map. If a Permit Holder is caught without permission on a road not
designated on the current year PRA map, he/she will be subject to suspension.
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F. PRA Vehicle UseRefer to Section 8.6. in OI
LEFT: example PRA Vehicle Decals
RIGHT: the dotted yellow box shows correct decal placement on a vehicle (right)
PLEASE NOTE:VEHICLE DECALS ARE NOT PERMITS
VEHICLE DECALS DO NOT GRANT ACCESS TO THE INSTALLATION
USAF vehicles always have right-of-way (para F8.)
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F9.1. Exception: Small Game hunters may drive firebreaks range-
wide after General Gun Season or the General Gun Season
Extension ends until the end of Small Game Season (whichever
comes last) without obtaining permission from the Outdoor
Recreation Office. Vehicles shall be parked clear of the firebreak
(refer to para F14.). The discharge of firearms is prohibited within
the roadway of the firebreak.
F9.2. Permit Holders may drive on existing firebreaks to retrieve
downed game only after receiving verbal authorization from
Outdoor Recreation staff.
F9.3. After receiving verbal authorization from the Outdoor
Recreation Office, Permit Holders with FWC-issued Special Use
Vehicle Permit Certificates shall be driven down firebreaks or
unmarked trails to be dropped off and/or picked up from their
declared hunting location. Vehicles shall not be parked off-road on
firebreaks or unmarked trails; vehicles shall be returned to and
parked on named roads as designated on the current year PRA
map.
F9.4. OQ Range Road is off-limits when the red flag indicating an
active training exercise is flying. The flag is located at the
entrance to OQ Road at Kissimmee Road. All roads in Unit 13,
including OQ Road, OQ Range Road, Ellis Road, and Morgan Hole
Road, are closed when Unit 13 is closed.
F10. Driving around any type of barricade is strictly prohibited.
F11. The use of tracked vehicles, motorcycles, golf carts, ATVs, LSVs, UTVs,
rail buggies, dirt bikes, and airboats is prohibited. Only rubber-tired
vehicles not previously listed are permitted. This prohibition includes all
ATVs, LSVs, UTVs, and/or rail buggies, which may otherwise be considered
street legal.
F12. A Law Enforcement Officer may search any camp, vehicle or boat, in
accordance with the law. No person shall refuse or obstruct such
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F9.4.
inspection by any authorized officer of the state.
F13. Bicycle use is authorized on all designated roads, as well as along all
unmarked fence lines and firebreaks.
F13.1. Riders shall wear a highly visible outer garment during the
day and an outer garment containing retro-reflective material at
night.
F13.2. Riders shall wear a properly fastened, approved (e.g.
Consumer Product Safety Commission, ANSI, Snell Memorial
Foundation, or host nation
equivalent) bicycle helmet.
F13.3. All bicycles shall
be equipped with a white
front light.
F13.4. Mopeds,
motorcycles and electric
bicycles are prohibited.
F14. No person shall park any
vehicle in a manner which
obstructs a road, gate, bridge, or
firebreak.
F15. The use of vehicles is prohibited in the Public Recreation Area
between 10:00 PM and 4:30 AM, except on Frostproof, Smith, Old Bravo, and
Kissimmee Roads (or during verifiable emergencies, or after having
received prior approval from the Outdoor Recreation Program).
F16. No person shall ride upon any vehicle in any manner not designated or
intended for the use of passengers.
G. General RegulationsRefer to Section 9.3. in OI
G1. The possession of remote-controlled aircraft or drones is strictly
prohibited.
G2. The possession of fireworks is strictly prohibited. Nothing shall leave
the ground.
G3. The use or possession of metal detectors is strictly prohibited.
G4. Digging and/or all forms of ground disturbance are strictly prohibited.
G5. Permit Holders shall enter Management Units no earlier than two
hours before sunrise and exit no later than three hours after sunset,
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except with special permission from the Outdoor Recreation Office.
G6. Spotlighting is prohibited.
G7. Consumption of alcohol shall be limited to campgrounds only.
Public intoxication is prohibited. The proper transportation of
alcohol, while entering or exiting the Range, will follow Florida state
statutes. Good order and discipline shall be maintained at all times
while on Avon Park Air Force Range.
G8. No ordnance or any other military material shall be tampered
with, handled or removed from the installation. Areas where
suspected unexploded ordnance is found shall be vacated
immediately and the location reported to Outdoor Recreation
Program personnel.
G9. The disturbance or removal of any man-made or cultural materials (such as shell middens or other archaeologically or historically significant
materials or sites) is prohibited. Permit Holders shall notify the Outdoor Recreation Office (Building 600) after encountering artifacts. Whoever is on
duty will document such information and transfer to the next-level supervisor who will contact the staff Archaeologist. Historical and archaeological
resources on the Avon Park Air Force Range are protected under federal law and it is a crime to remove or disturb them from their original location.
G10. Live trees or standing dead trees shall not be cut. Dead or downed wood may be
cut and collected as firewood and used only at Avon Park Air Force Range. Firewood
brought onto the installation shall be burned or removed from the property upon
departure.
q G11. Destroying, damaging, altering, or vandalizing, any sign, building, fence, or other
man-made structure, is prohibited.
G12. The polluting of any waterway (stream, creek, river, or pond) by dumping oil, acids,
poisons, detergents, or other pollutants, is prohibited. The placing of any trees, limbs,
weir, concrete, or other debris, in any waterway is prohibited, unless authorized by the
Installation Commander.
G13. Gates found in a condition other than that of which the gate was left by staff may be
subsequently locked without notice.
G14. Hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation is prohibited on any portion of the
installation posted as closed to those activities.
G15. People, dogs, vehicles, and other recreational equipment, are prohibited in areas
posted as “Closed to Public Access” by U.S. Air Force administrative action.
G16. All fires are prohibited, except as stated in para H2.
G17. Unethical behavior will result in the loss of recreational privileges.
G18. Permit Holders shall be barred from the installation for posting, publishing or distributing any information or photos deemed sensitive to the military
mission to any websites, forums or social media platforms. This includes, but is not limited to, information regarding military training operations, photos
of military activities, personnel or equipment, and/or names of individuals involved in military training operations.
G19. Horses are prohibited.
G8.
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H1. Willingham, Morgan Hole and Fort Kissimmee Campgrounds are the only
designated campgrounds for PRA Permit Holders. Campground boundaries
are delineated on the map and marked with signs in the field.
H2. No campfires shall be left unattended. All fires shall be contained in
stoves, grills, fireplaces, or fire rings. All fires shall be extinguished (cold)
before being left unattended. Fire bans shall be observed when in effect.
H3. Generators are only allowed in Willingham Campground west of
Frostproof Road, in Morgan Hole Campground north of Kissimmee Road,
and in Fort Kissimmee Campground north of the boat ramp.
H4. Campground quiet hours are 11:00 PM - 4:30 AM. People and/or their
dogs creating excessive noise or exhibiting other behaviors that disturb
other campers shall be removed from the installation. Generators shall be
used 24-hours a day.
H5. No camping will be allowed within 25 feet of a picnic pavilion, pump,
latrine, or shower facility.
H6. No camping, vehicles or trailers will be allowed within 15 feet of the
main bank of Morgan Hole Creek in Morgan Hole Campground or of the
Kissimmee River in Fort Kissimmee Campground.
H7. All trash shall be properly disposed of in the dumpsters provided at
H. Camping RegulationsRefer to Sections 10.1. & 10.2. in OI
Building 600. The dumpsters are for trash generated at campsites.
Dumpsters shall not be utilized for the disposal of any household trash,
tires, batteries, aerosols, propane bottles, live coals, ashes, animal
entrails, or parts and pieces thereof. The discharge of contaminants or
human waste is prohibited. Littering is prohibited.
H8. All campers and camping equipment must be removed from the Range
when recreation closes each weekend, unless otherwise stated.
H9. Emptying grey water and septic tanks from campers into the porta-
potties is prohibited.
H10. Campgrounds will be closed at the discretion of the Installation
Commander.
H11. Hunt Permit Holders shall store a single camper in Willingham or
Morgan Hole Campground for the duration of General Gun, Small Game
and/or Spring Turkey Seasons, for an additional fee per hunt season (see
Attachment 4). Campers shall be brought in no more than one week before
the start of a hunt season and removed no later than one week after the
hunt season ends.
H12. Tents, vehicles and trailers may not be stored at any campground.
Trailers are defined as any trailer not being used as sleeping quarters.
H13. Campers shall not be stored at Fort Kissimmee Campground.
H14. All access procedures apply. See Section E.
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H15. Camping spots are first come, first served. Reserving spots ahead of
time is prohibited. Anyone fighting over a camping spot shall have their
camping privileges revoked immediately.
I1. All Permit Holders shall comply with state regulations.
I2. All Permit Holders shall have the appropriate state licenses in addition
to the appropriate Avon Park Air Force Range Permits.
I3. Permit Holders shall fish any body of water that is accessible in an
open PRA Management Unit, as well as Lake Arbuckle (but not from the
fishing pier at the Main Gate) and the Kissimmee River, during the allocated
period for their particular Permit.
I4. Boats are restricted to a maximum engine size of ten horsepower on
Tomlin Hammock Lake. Gas or electric trolling motors may be used.
I5. No motorized vessels are allowed in any marsh on Avon Park Air Force
Range. Motorless vessels shall be permitted during Migratory Bird Season.
I6. FWC regulations control boat restrictions on the Kissimmee River.
I7. Airboats may be trailered across Avon Park Air Force Range property
to the Kissimmee River. Airboats shall only be launched at the Kissimmee
River boat ramp.
I8. Feeding alligators is prohibited. Aggressive alligators shall be reported
to Outdoor Recreation staff.
I9. Daily and possession bag limits will follow FWC Regulation 68A-23.005.
I10. Catfish are catch and release only between 15 April and 15 June
annually at Van Eeghan Ponds 1, 2, 3, and Tomlin Hammock Lake. These fish
are stocked and fed to gain size prior to the Youth Fishing Derby.
I11. Freshwater game fish may be taken only by hook and line or rod and
reel.
I. Fishing RegulationsRefer to Section 10.4. in OI
I12.. Trotlines and brush hooks are prohibited.
J1. All harvested animals shall be checked in at the Outdoor Recreation
Office (Building 600) with a Park Ranger. If no one is available at Building
600, a self-check form (available at the sign-in station) shall be used to
indicate game that was harvested, where it was harvested and a Permit
number. All game harvested shall be checked through Building 600 with
either of these two alternatives. White-tailed deer shall also be reported
to FWC per state regulations.
J1.1. All game harvested shall be check in at the Outdoor Recreation
Office prior to being skinned or dismembered. Field dressing of
harvested game is strictly prohibited.
J2. Hunting equipment is prohibited except at 8:00 AM seven days prior to
the opening of Archery Season until 6:00 PM seven days following the close
of Spring Turkey Season.
J2.1. Tree stands shall be removed by 6:00 PM seven days
following the end of General Gun Season.
J2.2. Ground blinds shall be removed by 6:00 PM seven days
following the close of Spring Turkey Season.
J3. Tree stands or blinds are
limited to three per Permit Holder
and shall be in good working
condition to provide a safe
environment from which to hunt. All
stands/blinds shall be labeled with
the owner’s Permit number so that
the owner may be contacted by staff.
Ladder stands shall be labeled by
attaching a tag at eye level. All tree
stands are subject to random
inspection. Unlabeled or unsafe tree
stands will be confiscated by Outdoor
Recreation staff upon detection.
J3.1. Permanent tree stands
or permanent blinds are not
permitted in the Public
Recreation Area. Tree stands
found outside of hunting
season will be confiscated by
Outdoor Recreation staff.
J3.2. No tree stands or ground
Tomlin Hammock Lake
PRA Management Unit 11
J. General Hunting RegulationsRefer to Section 11.1. in OI
blinds are permitted within 100 feet of a white-banded tree.
J3.3. No tree stands or ground blinds are permitted within 200 feet of an impact area or property
boundary.
J3.4. In the case of conflict between Permit Holders concerning tree stand or ground blind placement,
if a resolution cannot be reached, all parties will be moved to different Management Units.
J3.5. Tree stand placement is first come, first served. The earlier placement of trail cameras does
not reserve a hunting spot. Reserving of spots is prohibited.
J3.6. A Fall Arrest System / Full Body Harness is required. The Fall Arrest System or Full Body
Harness shall be worn and properly attached to the tree at all time while the tree stand is in use.
J3.6.1. A short tether shall be maintained between the tree and the Permit Holder with no
slack while in the seated position.
J3.6.2. A haul line shall be used to raise/lower equipment. Firearms shall be unloaded and
pointed away from the Permit Holder while being hauled up to the tree stand.
J3.6.3. Permit Holders shall have a Fall Rescue, Relief and Recovery Plan in case of emergency. Prolonged suspension from a harness
can be fatal.
J3.6.4. Permit Holders using ladder stands shall maintain three points of contact with the ladder stand at all times. Permit Holders
using climber stands shall have a connector strap and be connected to the tree at all times. Permit Holders using hang-on stands shall
secure the tether at eye level or above. Proper procedures to utilize hang-on stands (accessing the platform from above) shall be
observed.
J3.6.5. Permit Holders shall inspect his/her tree stand(s) and Fall Arrest System each time prior to climbing the stand.
J4. Any hog caught with dogs shall be harvested. Mutilating and releasing hogs is strictly prohibited.
J5. Game shall be hunted from one half-hour before sunrise until one half-hour after sunset, except during Spring Turkey Season. Legal hunting hours
during Spring Turkey Season are one half-hour before sunrise until 1:00 PM.
J6. All personal possessions shall be removed from the installation at the end of each weekend, unless otherwise specified. The U.S. Air Force is not
liable for the loss or vandalism of any items or equipment brought onto the installation. Unauthorized items left behind will be confiscated.
J7. A group of three or more people on foot shall not concentrate, drive, rally, or stir up game, except during Small Game Only Season (see Section N).
J8. All Youth Hunt events (Deer Hunt, Gator Hunt, Spring Turkey Hunt) are open to Dependents and/or
Non-dependents (grandchildren, nieces/nephews, etc.) of current Hunt Permit Holders.
J8.1. Participants of the Youth Deer Hunt are required to register as per instructions from the Outdoor
Recreation Office. All participants shall be no older than 15 years of age. Non-dependents of Hunt
Permit Holders require a signed and notarized Parental Consent Form.
J8.2. Participants of the Youth Alligator Hunt are required to register as per instructions from the
Outdoor Recreation Office. All participants shall be between the ages of 12 and 15; participants shall be
chosen by lottery. Non-dependents of Hunt Permit Holders required a signed and notarized Parental
Consent Form.
J3.3.
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J8.2.
J8.3. Participants of the Youth Spring Turkey Hunt are required to register as per instructions from the Outdoor Recreation Office. All
participants shall be no older than 15 years of age. Non-dependents of Hunt Permit Holders require a signed and notarized Parental Consent
Form.
J8.4. Participants of the Youth Fishing Derby are required to register with the Outdoor Recreation Office on the day of the Derby. Participants
shall be no older than 15 years of age.
K1. During Archery Season, only archery equipment may be brought onto the
installation. Crossbows are ONLY allowed with a FWC Disabled Crossbow Permit during
Archery Season. Longbows, crossbows and recurve bows shall have a minimum draw
weight of 35lbs. Arrows used to take deer, turkey or hogs shall be equipped with
broadheads having a minimum width of 7/8 inches. Pistols of any kind are prohibited.
K2. During Muzzleloading Season, the following are permitted: muzzleloading firearms
(weapons firing single bullets shall be .30 caliber or larger; weapons firing two or more
balls shall be 20 gauge or larger).
K3. During General Gun and Small Game Seasons, the following are permitted:
K. Permissible Firearms & WeaponsRefer to Section 12 in OI
14 | 2021-2022
YOUTH PROGRAMS AT
AVON PARK AFR
Provided free of charge every year for the children,
grandchildren, nieces & nephews of our Permit Holders
and the general public of central Florida.
Watch our website and Facebook page for details on the
next Youth Event at Avon Park AFR.
A special thanks to our partner
for making our Youth Program
possible.
15 | 2021-2022
shotguns, archery equipment including crossbows, muzzleloading firearms
as stated in para K2., rim-fire rifles (maximum velocity 1,300 fps), and
pistols.
K4. During Migratory Bird Season, the following are permitted: shotguns
(not larger than 10-gauge) plugged to a three-shell capacity, including a
one-piece filler that cannot be removed without disassembling the gun.
The total capacity shall not exceed three shells. Bows and crossbows shall
also be permitted.
K5. During Spring Turkey Season, the following are permitted: shotguns
using Number 2 or smaller diameter shot. Archery equipment and
crossbows are also permitted as stated in para K1. Hunting ends at 1:00
PM.
K6. During limited entry quota hunts, firearms, if permitted, will be
designated by the Installation Commander (see Section M).
K7. Center-fire rifles and fully automatic firearms are prohibited.
K8. Only Hunt Permit Holders, underage children under direct control of a
Hunt Permit Holder, and Hunt Guests of a Hunt Permit Holder, shall possess
firearms or archery equipment during the appropriate season. The
possession of any type of firearm or archery equipment by any individual
outside of the posted hunting season is prohibited, unless specifically
authorized by the Installation Commander. This includes Permit Holders
with concealed carry permits.
K9, All firearms, including crossbows, shall be unloaded, completely empty
of ammunition, while at the Outdoor Recreation Office, any campground or
within a moving vehicle. Firearms shall be loaded once the Public
Recreation Area has been reached and movement of the vehicle has
ceased. Firearms shall only be discharged in accordance with para K10.,
para K11. and para K13.
K10. A firearm, regardless of any caliber or draw weight, shall not be fired
from a moving vehicle of from inside the cab of a stationary vehicle.
Firearms shall not be discharged from or across any roadway designated
on the Public Recreation Area map and/or within 50 feet of Kissimmee
Road.
K11. The discharge of a firearm outside of periods open to hunting or in
areas closed to hunting is prohibited.
K12. Bows may be equipped with aiming devices with electronic
computational capabilities or light projections (i.e. laser) features during
Archery Season.
K13. The discharge of firearms or the use of archery equipment is
prohibited within 200 yards of the marked boundary of any designated
public campsite.
K14. Target practice is prohibited throughout the installation. However,
muzzleloading firearms shall be cleared in the pits located at Willingham
and Morgan Hole Campgrounds.
K15. Firing ranges on this installation are not open to any Permit Holder.
K16. The take of wildlife or freshwater fish with a firearm between one
half-hour after sunset and one half-hour before sunrise is prohibited. The
Installation Commander may approve limited entry night hunts to take wild
hog, racoon or non-protected mammals during non-daylight hours. The
dates of these limited entry night hunts and equipment permitted will be
posted at the Outdoor Recreation Office.
K17. No person shall be under the influence of drugs or alcohol while in
possession of a firearm or bow.
K18. No person shall take or assist in taking wildlife using a method that
involves remote control aiming and discharging of a firearm when that
person is not physically present at the location of that firearm.
K19. No person shall carry a concealed weapon (even with a permit) while
on Avon Park Air Force Range property.
K20. Air guns, including pre-charged pneumatic air guns, are prohibited.
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L1. All dogs brought onto U.S. Air Force property shall wear a collar
bearing the name and telephone number of the owner. This includes dogs
wearing only tracking collars.
L2. All dogs shall be under physical restraint at all times, except when
being used by Hunt Permit Holders to pursue game during Small Game
Season, Migratory Bird Season and Limited Entry Quota Hunts.
L3. All dogs over six months of age shall have a current rabies vaccination
and have a vaccination tag attached to the collar. Prior to bringing the
dog(s) onto the installation, rabies vaccination paperwork from a pet clinic
or veterinarian for each dog shall be submitted to the Outdoor Recreation
Office.
L4. All Permit Holders who have lost dogs shall report this information to
the Outdoor Recreation Office before leaving the installation. Permit
Holders shall make every effort to locate lost dogs before leaving the
installation.
L5. Dogs are allowed in all campgrounds. It is the responsibility of the dog
owner to control his/her dogs at all times. Dogs creating disturbances in
campgrounds shall be removed from the installation if requested by the
Outdoor Recreation Office or Law Enforcement employees.
L6. In all cases, Permit Holders are responsible for all actions of their
dog(s).
L7. The taking or pursuing of game mammals with dogs is prohibited,
unless authorized by the Installation Commander for Limited Entry Quota
Hunts.
L8. No person shall knowingly or negligently allow any dog to pursue or
molest any wildlife during any period in which the taking of such wildlife by
the use of dogs is prohibited.
L9. Dogs used to pursue game during Small Game and Migratory Bird
Seasons are limited to bird dogs and retrievers.
L10. The number of dogs in the possession of a Hunt Permit Holder during
Small Game Season is limited to four dogs.
L11. Dogs on leashes shall be used for tracking wounded game during any
hunt season in any Management Unit. Before tracking wounded game, the
Permit Holder shall first obtain authorization from the Outdoor Recreation
Office.
L12. Permit Holders shall hunt waterfowl and snipe with dogs in Kissimmee
Marsh and Arbuckle Marsh during the appropriate season. All dog use
regulations apply.
L13. The training of dogs is prohibited, except during hunting seasons
where dogs are already permitted.
M1. Limited entry quota hunts are authorized by the Installation
Commander during which dogs may be used for the pursuit and take of
game. Additional opportunities for limited entry quota hunts are at the
discretion of the Installation Commander and subject to change due to
military missions.
M1.1. Limited entry quota deer hunts are scheduled for three
weekends during General Gun Season.
M1.2. Limited entry quota hog hunts are scheduled for four
weekends during Small Game Season.
M2. Outdoor Recreation staff will identify Management Units in advance of
the limited entry quota hunt. Units will be selected based on biological
resources management needs and mission essential criteria, and final
selection is at the discretion of the Installation Commander. All limited
entry quota hunts are subject to cancellation due to conflicts with the
military mission.
L. General Use of DogsRefer to Section 13 in OI
M. Limited Entry Quota HuntsRefer to Section 13.14. in OI
M3. A lottery will be used to determine groups selected for limited entry quota hunts.
M3.1. Hunt groups shall designate a Hunt Permit Holder as their leader who will compile a list of all individuals within their party and submit one
application for the hunt. Group applications shall be mailed to the Outdoor Recreation Office or dropped off in person during posted office hours.
Only complete applications will be considered. Groups will be drawn and selected together. All applications are due no later than the first
weekend of General Gun Season.
M3.1.1 A group shall comprise of between 2 and 15 individuals;
all group members shall be current PRA Hunt or Companion
Hunt Permit Holders in good standing, or shall purchase a
Special Use Permit per individual for the weekend of the
hunt prior to Thursday at 2:00 PM.
M3.1.2. An individual member of one group shall not be a
member of a second group. Each individual only gets one
chance in the lottery.
M3.1.2.1. Non-hunt Companion Permit Holders
shall ride in the vehicle with a group member who
is a Hunt Permit Holder but shall not participate in the hunt. The Non-hunt Companion and/or underage legal dependents will
not count against the group size.
M3.1.3. Special Use Permit Holders are not eligible to purchase Guest Permits.
M3.2. All veterinarian-certified rabies vaccination paperwork for every dog shall be submitted at the same time as the group application to be
considered for the lottery draw. Failure to submit rabies paperwork, even if this information is already on file from previous hunt years, will
disqualify the group from the lottery draw.
M3.3. In the case that a limited entry quota hunt is cancelled due to military missions, the selected groups will be granted a hunt on the next
available weekend.
M3.4. In the event that a selected group is unavailable for the limited entry quota hunt for which they were drawn, another group from the lottery
pool will be selected to fill their place. Group leaders are required to notify Outdoor Recreation of a cancellation of this nature no less than end of
business two days prior to the scheduled limited entry quota hunt. Failure to notify Outdoor Recreation staff will result in the violating group
having their application terminated from any further lottery selections.
M4. Each group shall have no more than 30 dogs in their possession, regardless
of the number of individuals within that group.
M4.1. A group shall not have more dogs on the day of the hunt than they
pre-registered with their application, even if it is under the 30-dog limit.
M4.2. Every dog used during the limited entry quota hunts shall be
equipped with GPS and behavior correction collars.
M5. A limit of one group will be drawn for every 1,500 acres of available habitat
within the selected Management Unit(s), not to exceed three groups or 45 Hunt,
Companion Hunt and Special Use Permit Holders per Management Unit.
M6. All selected individuals will be present for an in-briefing the first morning of
the limited entry quota hunt. All dogs will be accounted for before the hunt, to
LIMITED ENTRY QUOTA HUNT
APPLICATION DEADLINES
DEER: HOG:
NOV 07, 2021 JAN 02, 2022
FOR YOUR APPLICATION TO BE
CONSIDERED COMPLETE:
1. Group Leader is PRA Hunt Permit Holder
2. All application fields are filled in & legible
3. Rabies vaccination certificates are included
with the application (must be certificate, not receipt of payment for shots)
4. Applications are postmarked by deadline
17 | 2021-2022
18 | 2021-2022
include verification of rabies vaccination paperwork, GPS collars, behavioral correction collars, and a total count of dogs. In the event the group is
selected for multiple weekends due to a lack of interest from other groups, only the Group Leader shall be present for the subsequent in-briefings. All
Permit Holders in the group shall notify staff as to whether or not they have dogs upon sign-in. Likewise, all Permit Holders shall notify staff of the
number of dogs in their dog box upon sign-out. Spot checks by staff or FWC Law Enforcement may occur.
M6.1. In the event a group member cannot be present for the in-briefing, that individual forfeits his/her opportunity to participate in the quota
hunt for which he/she was selected. The individual will be re-entered in the lottery with his/her group as per para M3.4.
M6.2. Substitutions of individual group members are permitted until Thursday at 2:00 PM the week of the hunt. All requirements for safety
briefs and Permit purchases must also be completed by Thursday at 2:00 PM the week of the hunt. Substitution of dogs is prohibited.
M8. All wild hogs captured during a limited entry quota hunt, if permitted, shall be harvested. No hogs shall be released.
M9. All roads and trails authorized for use during the limited entry quota hunt shall be identified during the in-briefing, to include any firebreaks available
for vehicle use. The closest campground to the selected Management Unit(s) for each limited entry quota hunt shall be authorized for use by the selected
hunting groups. All dogs and equipment shall be stored in the designated campground.
M10. Selected individuals and/or groups are not permitted outside the Management Unit(s) or to utilize roads, trails and/or firebreaks not designated for
the limited entry quota hunt in question, for hunting purposes. The pursuit and take of game other than that specified at the in-briefing is prohibited.
M11. All other regulations apply to limited entry quota hunts.
M12. The continuation of these limited entry quota hunt opportunities is contingent on success as measured by zero violations of these and all other
regulations.
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Tentative 2021 - 2022 hunting season dates for the Avon Park Air Force Range Public Recreation Area. These dates are subject to change due to military
missions or updated biological information.
N. Hunt Season DatesRefer to Attachment 2 in OI
SEASON DETAILS START DATE END DATE
Archery SeasonStill-hunt only;
see para N2. below for legal game18 September 2021 17 October 2021
Muzzleloader SeasonStill-hunt only;
see para N3. below for legal game23 October 2021 05 November 2021
General Gun Season Still-hunt only;
see para N4. below for legal game.
06 November 2021 20 December 2021
General Gun Season Extension 21 December 2021 23 January 2022
Small Game SeasonDesignated Units, walk-in only;
See para N6. & N7. below for legal game13 November 2021 23 January 2022
Small Game ONLY SeasonRange-wide, driving firebreaks permitted;
see para N6. & N7. below for legal game24 January 2022 06 March 2022
Limited Entry Quota Hunt(s)See para N5. below for legal game
Refer to Section M above for regulationsTBD TBD
Youth Spring Turkey HuntSee para N8. below for
legal game & hunting hours12 March 2022 13 March 2022
Spring Turkey SeasonSee para N8. below for
legal game & hunting hours19 March 2022 24 April 2022
Please refer to http://myfwc.com/duck for the season dates for migratory birds. Migratory bird hunting shall not be permitted when these dates overlap
with Archery or Muzzleloader Seasons. Snipe season shall be concurrent with Small Game Season and ends 15 February 2022.
N1. Bag Limits
a. White-tailed Deer – daily limit of 2, possession limit of 4, of which only 2 may be does (see FWC regulations for more details).
b. Wild Hog – no size or bag limit
c. Turkey – daily limit of 1, season & possession limit of 2
d. Northern Bobwhite – daily limit of 12, possession limit of 24
e. Eastern Grey Squirrel – daily limit of 12, possession limit of 24
f. Rabbit – daily limit of 12, possession limit of 24
g. Raccoon, opossum, coyote, bobcat, otter, beaver, skunk & nutria – no bag limits
h. Once harvest quotas are met for any species, hunting may end for that season or species.
N2. Archery Season
a. Legal to take: antlered deer with at least one antler having 3 or more points (each point one inch or more in length) or a main beam length of 10 inches
or more. Antlerless deer, which includes does and bucks with antlers less than 5 inches in length, but not spotted fawn.
b. Bearded turkey, wild hog, coyote, eastern grey squirrel, rabbits, raccoons, opossums, and skunk.
20 | 2021-2022
N3. Muzzleloader Season
a. Legal to take: antlered deer with at least one antler having 3 or more points (each point one inch or more in length) or a main beam length of 10 inches
or more.
b. Wild hog, coyote, eastern grey squirrel, rabbits, raccoons, opossums, and skunk.
N4. General Gun Season
a. Legal to take: antlered deer with at least one antler having 3 or more points (each point one inch or more in length) or a main beam length of 10 inches
or more.
b. Wild hog, coyote, eastern grey squirrel, rabbits, raccoons, opossums, and skunk.
c. Migratory birds within Federal season dates.
d. General Gun Season Extension will run from 21 December 2021 through 23 January 2022, provided total buck harvest numbers do not exceed pre-set
limits.
N5. Limited Entry Quota Hunt(s)
a. Legal to take: antlered deer with at least one antler having 3 or more points (each point one inch or more in length) or a main beam length of 10 inches
or more.
b. Wild hog
c. Any hog caught with dogs shall be harvested. Mutilating and releasing hogs is strictly prohibited.
d. Antlered deer or wild hogs will only be taken from one half-hour before sunrise to one half-hour after sunset.
e. Rabies vaccinations and GPS and behavioral correction collars will be required for all dogs.
f. Authorized Management Unit(s), permissible firearms and lottery participants will be posted by Outdoor Recreation.
N6. Small Game Season
a. Legal to take: northern bobwhite, eastern grey squirrel, rabbits, coyotes, raccoons, opossums, and snipe (check season dates).
b. Wild hogs may be harvested, but the use of dogs to pursue and take hogs is prohibited except if a Limited Entry Quota Hunt is authorized by the
Installation Commander.
c. Management Units will be designated for walk-in only small game hunting during General Gun Season. After 23 January 2022, small game hunting is
authorized range-wide; the driving of firebreaks will be authorized at that time.
d. Rabbit dogs are prohibited, except during Limited Entry Quota Hunts approved by the Installation Commander.
e. GPS and behavioral correction collars are not required for bird dogs.
N7. Migratory Birds
a. Legal to take: doves, ducks and snipe can be harvested when the Federal and State season dates overlap with Avon Park Air Force Range General Gun
and Small Game Seasons.
b. Experimental duck seasons are not in effect at Avon Park Air Force Range.
c. To harvest any game, including ducks, on the Kissimmee River, individuals shall have a PRA Hunt Permit.
N8. Spring Turkey Season
a. Legal to take: gobblers or bearded turkeys.
b. The hunting of bearded turkeys is permitted one half-hour before sunrise until 1:00 PM.
c. The take of wild hogs is prohibited during Spring Turkey Season.
21 | 2021-2022
O1. No wildlife or freshwater fish or their nests, eggs, young, homes, or dens, shall be taken, transported, stored, served, bought, sold, or possessed, in
any manner or quantity at any time except as specifically permitted by these rules. Nor shall anyone take, poison, store, buy, sell, or possess, any wildlife
or freshwater fish, except as specifically permitted by this document.
O2. No one shall wantonly or willfully waste wildlife.
O3. Intentionally placing food or garbage, allowing the placement of food or garbage, or offering food or garbage, in such a manner that it attracts bears,
coyotes, foxes, raccoons, or sandhill cranes, in a manner that is likely to create or which does create a public nuisance, is prohibited.
O4. State and Federal laws protect native species of birds. Native birds shall not be taken or harassed, except as described in this instruction.
Unprotected non-native bird species include House (English) Sparrows and European Starlings.
O5. Unprotected mammals include armadillos, Norway rats, black rats, and house mice.
O6. Frogs, except gopher frogs, may be taken day or night, year-round by hand, gigs, clubs, or hook and line. See Section E for access procedures and
para F15. for prohibited driving hours.
O7. Taking cooters, box turtles and snapping turtles from the wild is
prohibited. For all other freshwater turtles, take is limited to one turtle per
person per day from the wild for non-commercial use. Freshwater turtles
can only be taken by hand, dip net, minnow seine, or baited hook.
O8. Softshell turtles shall not be taken from 01 May through 31 July.
O9. Taking or possessing gopher tortoises, or parts thereof, is prohibited.
Harassment of gopher tortoises, including allowing dogs to dig burrows, is
prohibited.
O10. Taking or possessing any snakes, including venomous snakes, is
prohibited.
O11. Killing or attempting to kill or wound endangered or threatened species,
or species of special concern, is prohibited. Capturing, harming, harassing,
or possessing, any protected species or their nests, eggs, or parts thereof, is
prohibited. Current listings of these species can be obtained from the
Outdoor Recreation Office.
O12. All wildlife is protected and shall not be harassed, injured, killed, or
removed from the installation, except as specifically authorized by these
regulations.
O. Non-Game Wildlife RegulationsRefer to Section 19 in OI
O11.
Florida Scrub Jay Gopher Tortoise
Crested Caracara “Florida” Burrowing Owl
Red-cockaded Woodpecker“Florida” Grasshopper Sparrow
Airboat: any boat, sled, sea skiff, or swamp boat, pushed, pulled or propelled by air power generated by a motor of more than 25 horsepower.
All-terrain Vehicle (ATV): an engine-powered vehicle with wheels or tracks of less than a 60-inch wheelbase measured from the center of the forward
wheel or hub to the center of the rearmost wheel or hub.
Archaeological Resource: any material remains of past human life or activities that are of archaeological interest. Archaeological resources are
protected by the Archaeological Resources Protection Act (ARPA) of 1979 (Public Law 96-95; 16 U.S.C. 470 aa-mm) as amended. Removal of protected
materials is punishable by a fine of $10,000.00 and/or 1 year in federal prison for the first offense. A fine of $100,000.00 and/or 5 years in federal prison
are the punishments for the second and any subsequent offenses. Additionally, any equipment and vehicles used in the remove of archaeological materials
shall be confiscated.
Bicycle: a vehicle propelled solely by human power, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped
with two front or two rear wheels. The term does not include such a vehicle with an electric or gas-powered motor, with a seat height of no more than 25
inches from the ground when the seat is adjusted to its highest point, or a scooter or similar device.
Companion: term used for an individual who is the spouse, common law spouse, fiancé, fiancée, or significant other, of a current Hunt Permit Holder.
Dependent: an individual less than 18 years of age on September 01 of the permit year accompanying a Permit Holder (host). This individual can be either a
legally dependent child or a child with a signed and notarized Parental Consent Form.
Firearm: a projectile weapon, including shotguns, rifles, pistols, revolvers, gas guns, blowguns, bows, crossbows, or any other device mechanically
propelling an arrow, spear, or other projectile.
Guest: an individual that is 18 years or older on September 01 of the permit year accompanying a Permit Holder (host).
Hunting: the lawful pursuit, trapping, shooting, capture, collection, or killing, of wildlife or the lawful attempt to pursue, trap, shoot, capture, collect, or kill,
wildlife.
Legal Game: antlered deer, eastern grey squirrel, rabbit, northern bobwhite, rail, Wilson’s snipe, American woodcock, duck, dove, goose, coot, and common
gallinule during open seasons stated for each species by Rule 68A-13.003, 68A-13.004, and 68A-13.008, F.A.C., unless otherwise stipulated for a particular
species in a regulation established for a specific wildlife management area, wildlife and environmental area, public small game hunting area, or public use
area.
Loaded Firearm: a firearm with any ammunition in the chamber or magazine, a muzzleloader with a firing cap or primer in place, a nocked arrow on a bow,
or a nocked bolt on a crossbow.
Migratory Game Birds: ducks, geese, brant, rails, swamphens, coots, gallinules, Wilson’s snipe, American woodcock, and doves.
Moped or Motorized Bicycle: any two- or three-wheeled device powered by human propulsion or electrical energy and an automatic transmission.
Additionally, a motor that produces less than two gross brake horsepower, propels a device at a maximum speed of not more than 30mph on level ground
and has a maximum engine size of 49 cubic centimeters. A moped only refers to motor vehicles both clearly defined by and authorized in traffic by
applicable traffic codes and laws.
Permanent Blind: anything that provides shelter, cover or a place of concealment for a person, but does not include rooted vegetation or a shelter, cover
or place of concealment remaining in place while the Permit Holder is not present.
Glossary of Terms
22 | 2021-2022
Pistol: a firearm designed to be held and fired by the use of a single hand, having a barrel length of 9 inches or less, and having a magazine inserted into
the grip, or in the case of revolvers, cartridges inserted into the cylinder.
Possession: the word “possession” whenever used in these rules shall mean any one of the following:
(a) Manual possession
(b) Physical possession
(c) Control or custody
(d) Possession in one’s clothing, attire or equipment
(e) Possession in or about a vessel, vehicle or beast of burden under one’s custody or control, including by not limited to compartments, drawers, pockets,
trunks, and similar places in and about such a vessel, vehicle or beast of burden
Roadway: that portion of a highway improved, designed, or ordinarily used for vehicular travel, exclusive of the berm or shoulder.
Take: the term shall include taking, attempting to take, pursuing, hunting, molesting, capturing, or killing, any wildlife or freshwater fish, or their nests or
eggs, by any means, whether or not such actions result in obtaining possession of such wildlife or freshwater fish or their nests or eggs.
23 | 2021-2022
PRA Permit FeesBelow is a list of available Permits for the Public Recreation Area. A Permit of some kind is required for ALL adults 18 years of age or older.
Please note, all Permits must be purchased ahead of time online at https://avon.isportsman.net. All prices shown are per individual; there are no “family
permits.”
24 | 2021-2022
PUBLIC RECREATION AREA HUNT PERMITS
PRA HUNT & RECREATION PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Valid 01 September 2021 – 31 August 2022
$400(before 31 July 2021)
$500(after 31 July 2021)
PRA COMPANION HUNT PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Valid 01 September 2021 – 31 August 2022
$250(before 31 July 2021)
$350(after 31 July 2021)
PRA COMPANION NON-HUNT PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Valid 01 September 2021 – 31 August 2022
$50
PURPLE HEART HUNT PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Purple Heart Citation or DD-214 required to qualify
NEVER EXPIRES – ANNUAL SAFETY BRIEFING REQUIRED
FREE
PRA ACTIVE DUTY MILITARY DISCOUNTED PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Valid Military CAC or Military ID required to qualify
Valid 01 September 2021 – 31 August 2022
$100
PRA RETIRED MILITARY DISCOUNTED PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Valid Military ID required to qualify
Valid 01 September 2021 – 31 August 2022
$200
25 | 2021-2022
PUBLIC RECREATION AREA HUNT PERMITS (CONT’D)PRA MILITARY COMPANION HUNT DISCOUNTED PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Valid 01 September 2021 – 31 August 2022
$75
PRA MILITARY COMPANION NON-HUNT DISCOUNTED PERMITRefer to Section B for regulations
Valid 01 September 2021 – 31 August 2022
$40
PUBLIC RECREATION AREA GUEST PERMITPRA HUNT GUEST PERMITRefer to Section D for regulations
Must be purchased no later than 2:00 PM Thursday
Valid for weekend of purchase; maximum three (3) visits
$50
PUBLIC RECREATION AREA RECREATION PERMITPRA SEASONAL RECREATION PERMITRefer to Section C for regulations
Valid 01 February 2022 – 31 August 2022
$40
PUBLIC MAN
AGEMEN
T UNIT M
AP
Managem
ent Unit
Unit Boundary
Closed Area (Year Round)
Non-Recreation Area
(Drive-thru only)
Sandy Point Wildlife Refuge
Campground
Boat Launch
Fishing Pond
Outdoor Recreation Office
Road
12
5A
3A3
4
7
58
911
11A
10A
10
12
1314
South
Tactical
South
Conventional
North
Tactical
North
Conventional
OQ
Alpha
Oscar
Main
Base
26 | 2021-2022
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