A permit is required for the collection, movement and sale of this commercially exploited native plant.

Effective July 2018, the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) requires a permit to harvest and sell saw palmetto berries in Florida. The Endangered Plant Advisory Council unanimously recommended adding saw palmetto to the FDACS commercially exploited plant list.

Before You Apply

The following resources will help you prepare so you can quickly and correctly apply for a permit.

• Native, Endangered or Commercially Exploited (NECE) Plant Harvesting Permit Online Application FAQ [ 195.9 kB ]
• Navigating the Online Portal [ 4.2 MB ]

How to Obtain a Permit

Submit Your Application Online

Alternatively, you can complete a Request for Permit to Harvest Endangered or Commercially Exploited Plant(s) or Plant Parts [ Adobe PDF Document ] and email or mail it to us. 

• Email the completed application and permission letter(s) to DPISPB@FDACS.gov, or 
• Send via mail to: Division of Plant Industry — Permit Unit, P.O. Box 147100, Gainesville, FL 32614-7100.

Please note: Paper applications may take upwards of two weeks to process depending on the number of applications received. Online submission will result in the fastest turnaround.