We have a permit lottery for open season - each geographic area issues a site specific number of permits.
Actually there's a little 4-5 footer in the pond about 20' from where my car is parked right now.
A gator 20 feet from you now? Are you naked and smoking crack? If so, seek shelter.
I was on a business call at Kennedy Space Center. I came out to my car, and a 7 foot alligator was under it. I patiently waited for him to leave.