Starting July 1, Sarasota County's permit program for operators of non-motorized water vessels will expand to Turtle Beach, following the program's successful launch at Ted Sperling Park at South Lido Beach in 2014. With the implementation of the permit program expansion, commercial operators who desire to launch their rental and tour customers from Turtle Beach will be able to purchase a permit. As of July 1, any commercial vessel launching from the permitted location must bear a metal tag, or "medallion," which can be moved from vessel to vessel as launch needs dictate. Medallions for Turtle Beach will cost $250 per vessel. This rate is for the initial program period ending March 31, 2018, and is subject to change. Currently, Sarasota County prohibits commercial activity at Turtle Beach and other county parks. Permitted operators will comply with a shared set of rules and regulations. Among other requirements, operators must carry insurance, store equipment appropriately while on-site, report launch numbers in advance and provide customers with briefings on safety as well as appropriate interactions with the natural environment. In addition to the ability to operate and conduct transactions within the park, benefits to permitted operators include limited designated parking as well as on-site staff resources during peak periods.

Sarasota County Government