Exotic Pet Amnesty Program
The Exotic Pet Amnesty Program supports Florida's pet owners who need to rehome nonnative pets. The program connects owners with qualified adopters who can provide nonnative pets with new homes.
Program Highlights:
- FREE!
- Rehome nonnative pets for any reason
- Rehoming requests accepted year-round
- Conditional and Prohibited species are accepted
- Temporary amnesty available to owners in need
Program Information
Red-eared sliders are the most rehomed pet in the program and the most difficult to place. The program accepts requests to rehome this species year-round via the online Rehoming Form.
We need red-eared slider adopters! If you are interested in becoming a red-eared slider adopter, please fill out the online Adopter Application.
Red-eared sliders are a Conditional species in Florida that require a free permit to possess as a personal pet. Albino and amelanistic red-eared sliders, may be possessed as pets without a permit.
Adopters must have adequate indoor tanks or outdoor enclosures. These enclosures must be fully enclosed by a barrier secured at least 6 inches below ground and that will prevent escape of turtles by digging, climbing or crawling through gaps. All red-eared slider eggs must be destroyed immediately upon detection.
For more information about becoming a red-eared slider adopter or acquiring a free permit to possess them, please email PetAmnesty@MyFWC.com
The Exotic Pet Amnesty Program helps rehome Prohibited species by flying them to qualified adopters in the United States.
While the program books and pays for your pet's flight following all IATA special cargo guidelines, owners are responsible for preparing a flight container and transporting your pet to one of the airline cargo hubs nearest you. We will make every effort to work with your schedule when booking the flight.
Native species kept as pets are outside the scope of this program. Owners of native pet wildlife should visit the Captive Wildlife page to find more information on regulations and options for their native animals. Report sick or injured wildlife by contacting a local wildlife rehabilitator or calling the FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline.
Domestic pets including dogs, cats, rabbits, guinea pigs and livestock (Ex. pigs and chickens) are not accepted. Owners of domestic animals should inquire with local pet shelters or rescues for options on rehoming their pets.
Rule Chapter 68-5, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.) requires license / permits for wildlife possession, exhibition and sale. Some nonnative species have adverse impacts to the ecology, economy and/or human health and safety and are further regulated as Conditional or Prohibited. Owners of these nonnative pets are required to possess the proper permit and permanently mark their animal(s) with a PIT tag and comply with enhanced biosecurity measures. Owners may request to rehome their pet and receive temporary amnesty from the requirements in 68-5, F.A.C.
More information can be found on these pages:
Need help or still have questions? Contact us:
- Email PetAmnesty@MyFWC.com
- Call the FWC’s Invasive Species Hotline 888-Ive-Got1 (483-4681) ext.1