Rule 391-4-16-.07 - Specifications for Turtle Farms(1) Outdoor facilities including, but not limited to, breeding ponds, grow-out ponds, holding ponds, and nesting areas shall meet the following conditions: (a) All such facilities shall be contained within a perimeter fence not less than 24 inches in height from ground level;(b) The perimeter fence shall be sufficient to prevent egress and ingress of any turtle;(c) All ponds shall be permanent earthen structures unless otherwise stipulated by the department; and(d) Turtle nesting areas shall consist of non-compacted soil of sufficient depth and area to meet the biological reproductive needs of all species being bred and accommodate the density of the facility's breeding stock and shall provide unrestricted egress and ingress of nesting females from breeding and/or holding ponds, unless otherwise stipulated by the department.(2) Indoor housing facilities shall meet the following conditions: (a) The facility shall include a structurally sound barrier to prevent egress or ingress of any turtle and infrastructure for holding, breeding, turtle laying area(s), incubation and hatching areas;(b) Suitable sanitary methods shall provide for rapid elimination of excess water and shall be properly constructed, and kept in good repair, to ensure the health of the turtles at all times. The method of drainage shall comply with applicable federal, state, and local laws and regulations relating to pollution control or the protection of the environment; and(c) Turtle nesting areas shall consist of non-compacted soil of sufficient depth and area to meet the biological reproductive needs of all species being bred and accommodate the density of the facility's breeding stock and shall provide unrestricted egress and ingress of nesting females from breeding and/or holding ponds, unless otherwise stipulated by the department.(3) All indoor and outdoor facilities shall be in compliance with applicable provisions of O.C.G.A. 27-5-6.Ga. Comp. R. & Regs. R. 391-4-16-.07
O.C.G.A. §§ 27-1-4, 27-1-28, 27-2-31, 27-3-19.1.
Original Rule entitled "Specifications for Turtle Farms" adopted. F. Jan. 27, 2012; eff. Feb. 16, 2012.Note: Correction of typographical error on SOS Rules and Regulations website. Original Rule title in History, "Purpose", corrected to "Specifications for Turtle Farms." Effective Apr. 25, 2018.Repealed: New Rule of same title adopted. F. Apr. 5, 2018; eff. Apr. 25, 2018.