Adam H. Putnam, Commissioner - Richard D. Gaskalla, Director
Bureau of Methods Development &
Biological Control

Bureau Chief: Dr. Trevor Smith, Trevor.Smith@freshfromflorida.com
Assistant Bureau Chief: Abbie Jo Fox, Abbie.Fox@freshfromflorida.com
Administrative Secretary: Kathleen Youghn

Biomass Permits

The Bureau of Methods Development and Biological Control within the Division of Plant Industry is responsible for the permit review process. the purpose of the permitting process (Biomass Planting Permit, DACS-08382, revised 07/06) is to control the introduction into, or movement within, Florida of plant species intended for biomass plantings and to establish procedures under which the field release of such are permitted. Such procedures will assist in confirming that introductions and field releases are conducted in a manner which provides for public and environmental protection. No biomass permit shall be issued for any planting of plants on the state or federal noxious weed list.

Biomass Plantings are governed by Florida Statute 581.083(4) and FL Rule 5B-57.011

Biomass Permitting - Supporting the Farm to Fuel Initiative brochure pdf document new

Applications for Biomass Plantings
Applications for Biomass plantings must be submitted with a non-refundable application fee of $50.00 USD. Separate applications and fees are required for each noncontiguous planting. If the application is approved, proof of a bond or certificate of deposit issued by a surety company and approved by the Division of Plant Industry must be submitted before the permit is approved and the compliance agreement is issued.

The application process is straightforward, and the steps in the application and approval process are detailed below:

  • Applicant cover letter (Letter of Intent) included with application
    Biomass Permit Application (DACS-08381 pdf document)
  • $50.00 Biomass Permit fee for each application
    *Note: A separate application and fee should be submitted for each noncontiguous planting.
  • Application is reviewed by DPI and site visit is scheduled
    Upon completion of the application review and site visit, if approved, a Compliance Agreement is issued (DACS 08383 pdf document) for applicant signature.

Applications for biomass plantings can be obtained HERE