Captive Wildlife Rules and Regulations

Introduction

Florida has nearly 1,300 native species of fish and wildlife. It also has become home to nearly 300 species of nonnative fish and wildlife. Florida's subtropical climate is ideal for many foreign species to survive. If these species escape or are released, they can easily become established here.

Many people possess native species for a variety of reasons - for retail, tourism, education, rehabilitation, etc. Florida requires permits for wildlife possession, exhibition and sale. The FWC enforces the statutes and regulations governing Florida's wildlife industry.

Commercial and private facilities must have permits for many types of native and nonnative animals - including potentially dangerous animals, such as Florida black bears and Florida panthers. These facilities include zoos, circuses, alligator farms, pet shops, tropical fish farms and individuals who own a class I, II or III animal (see wildlife categories).

FWC officers routinely conduct inspections to ensure humane treatment and sanitary conditions are in place for the animals, and cage and security requirements are adhered to for public safety. The FWC's regulations, relative to cage sizes, safety and humane treatment, are among the most stringent in the nation.

• Chapter 68A-6 - Captive Wildlife Rules
• Review the recent rule changes
• Captive Wildlife Permit Requirements
• Permit Applications & Regulations
• Wildlife Categories (Class I, II, III, etc.)
• Wildlife requiring and not requirig a permit

For More Information
Division of Law Enforcement, Investigations Section
620 S. Meridian Street
Tallahassee, FL 32399-1600
850-488-6253