This Guide provides information on the federal permitting and authorization requirements to establish an aquaculture operation in U.S. federal waters of the Gulf of Mexico (Gulf). The operator of an offshore aquaculture facility must obtain all required federal permits and authorizations prior to beginning operations, e.g., placing any structures or animals in federal waters of the Gulf. All applicants are strongly encouraged to request and actively participate in a Pre-Application Meeting prior to beginning the permit application process.

• Guide to the Permitting and Authorization Process for Aquaculture in U.S. Federal Waters of the Gulf of Mexico (PDF)(22 pp, 502 K)