EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE — Eglin Air Force Base officials are warning beachgoers and boaters that trespassing on restricted portions of Santa Rosa Island could result in hefty fines, criminal charges, and the loss of recreational privileges.
According to Eglin officials, trespassing incidents on the Santa Rosa Island Closed Test Area have already surpassed half of last year’s total in just the first four months of 2026.
From Jan. 1 through April 23, authorities documented 33 trespassing cases within the restricted area, resulting in $3,915 in fines. In all of 2025, officials recorded 65 incidents.
The restricted area stretches west of the El Matador Condominiums toward Navarre Beach and is marked with red “closed area” signs. Despite the warnings, officials say people continue entering the area to access secluded beaches.
“People trespassing to access secluded beaches are putting themselves at risk because hazardous test activities occur there almost daily,” said Lt. Col. Michael Bruton, commander of the 96th Security Forces Squadron. “Violators may also disrupt test operations, resulting in negative mission impacts.”
Federal penalties for trespassing on Eglin property increased after the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida modified the minimum fine for violations occurring within Eglin’s boundaries to $250. Individuals who receive citations may be required to appear before a U.S. magistrate judge in Pensacola or pay the fine if eligible.
The warning extends beyond beachgoers.
In 2025, 96th Test Wing Commander Brig. Gen. Mark Massaro restricted six waterways surrounding the test range due to what officials described as emerging air and waterborne threats.
Boaters entering these coastal restricted areas must first obtain a permit through Eglin’s iSportsman system and use the required check-in and check-out procedures. Officials emphasized that these permits do not authorize access to the Santa Rosa Island test area itself.
Authorities say boaters found recreating in or passing through restricted waters without a permit can expect to be stopped, boarded, questioned, and potentially cited for trespassing.
Officials added that failure to comply with restrictions may lead to fines, criminal prosecution, and suspension of recreational access privileges throughout the Eglin Test and Training Complex.
Eglin leaders say the restrictions are designed to protect both public safety and critical military testing operations that occur regularly throughout the area.
