(1) The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission recognizes that there are justifiable reasons to allow the harvest, possession, or release of marine organisms that would be in violation of one or more of the state’s marine fisheries rules. Such activities include but are not limited to scientific research, education/exhibition, aquaculture, the use of non-conforming or innovative gear, the use of marine chemicals, the release of marine organisms, and the use of dredges.
    (2) The rules in this chapter establish the Special Activity License (SAL) Program and allow the Commission to enter into agreements. Under this program the Commission will evaluate a proposed activity that requires a waiver of state marine fisheries rules. If the Commission determines that the proposed activity is in the best interest of the public of the State of Florida, it may issue a SAL or FMSEA Certification or enter into an agreement that includes terms, conditions, or restrictions that are necessary to ensure that the activity is consistent, to the maximum extent practicable, with fisheries rules, management plans of the Commission, and the best available scientific information.
Rulemaking Authority Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. Law Implemented Art. IV, Sec. 9, Fla. Const. History-New 7-1-04.