Scrub-Jay Survey & Permitting Services in Florida

A Florida scrub jay with blue and brown feathers perched on a saw palmetto leaf.

What Is a Scrub-Jay Survey?

The Florida Scrub-Jay (Aphelocoma coerulescens) is a federally threatened species and the only bird species endemic to Florida. Because of its protected status, development projects on suitable habitat often require a Scrub-Jay survey before property transactions or construction.

These surveys document habitat conditions, determine whether the site supports Scrub-Jays, and establish whether USFWS (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service) permitting will be necessary.

Our Scrub-Jay Services

At Environmental Consultants of Florida (ECF), we provide both habitat assessments for due diligence and formal Scrub-Jay surveys for permitting across North, Central, and South Florida, including North Port, Tampa, Sarasota, and Lakeland.

  • Habitat Assessments (Due Diligence)
    For landowners, buyers, and realtors, we assess whether a property provides suitable Scrub-Jay habitat. These assessments help you make informed buying decisions before investing in property.

  • Formal Surveys (Permitting)
    For developers and builders, we conduct formal Scrub-Jay surveys in accordance with USFWS guidelines. In many counties, local governments will not issue building permits until a habitat assessment, survey, and/or consultation with USFWS is completed. Our team prepares the required documentation, coordinates with USFWS, and outlines mitigation or conservation requirements to help keep your project compliant and on schedule.

Why Scrub-Jay Surveys Are Important

  • Legal Protection – The Florida Scrub-Jay is protected under the Endangered Species Act.

  • Local Permitting Requirements – Certain local governments will not issue building permits until Scrub-Jay habitat assessments, surveys, and/or USFWS consultation are completed.

  • Property Value – Identifying suitable habitat before purchase helps avoid costly surprises.

  • Permitting Delays – Surveys performed early prevent stop-work orders and project setbacks.

  • Compliance – USFWS requires surveys and documentation before permits for impacted habitat are issued.

Who We Serve

  • Landowners & Buyers – due diligence assessments to evaluate property suitability

  • Realtors – support for smooth transactions and informed client decisions

  • Developers & Builders – formal surveys, permitting, and mitigation planning before construction

  • Commercial & Residential Projects – from small parcels to large-scale developments

Why Choose Environmental Consultants of Florida?

  • Specialized Expertise – extensive experience in Scrub-Jay habitat and USFWS permitting

  • End-to-End Services – from initial assessments to formal surveys and agency coordination

  • Client-Focused Approach – clear communication and fast turnaround to keep projects moving

  • Local Knowledge – experience across Florida counties with varying permitting requirements

Service Areas

We provide Scrub-Jay surveys and permitting services across North, Central, and South Florida, including:
North Port, Tampa, Sarasota, Lakeland, and surrounding counties. See our full service area here.

Request a Quote

Need a Scrub-Jay habitat assessment or formal survey for your property? Whether you’re completing due diligence before buying land or preparing a development for permitting, our team is here to help.

Contact Environmental Consultants of Florida today to schedule a survey and keep your project compliant with USFWS requirements.

📞 Call 813-701-6444
📧 Email info@ecfflorida.com
🔗Click Here to Request a Quote

Scrub-Jay Survey FAQs

Do I need a Scrub-Jay survey to buy land in Florida?

Certain counties in Florida maintain parcel lists that flag properties as potential Scrub-Jay habitat. If your parcel is identified, the next step is to request a habitat assessment to confirm or disprove these findings. If suitable habitat is confirmed, a formal Scrub-Jay survey will be required along with consultation with USFWS. Completing these steps early helps you avoid unexpected mitigation and permitting fees and prevents construction delays.

Who regulates Scrub-Jay surveys in Florida?

Scrub-Jay surveys and permitting are regulated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) under the Endangered Species Act (ESA). Some counties and local governments also require proof of a habitat assessment or survey — and in many cases, consultation with USFWS — before they will issue a building permit.

How long does a Scrub-Jay survey take?

A habitat assessment can usually be completed quickly, but if suitable habitat is confirmed, a formal Scrub-Jay survey must be scheduled during the appropriate survey season (March through June) when birds are most detectable. USFWS review and consultation may extend timelines, so planning early is the best way to avoid project delays.

Can construction continue if Scrub-Jays are present?

No. If Scrub-Jays are present on your property, construction cannot proceed until USFWS has reviewed the survey findings and approved a mitigation or conservation plan. Options may include habitat preservation, off-site mitigation, or conservation banking. Only after USFWS consultation and permit approval can development move forward.