Florida Iguana Removal Laws & Regulations
Understanding the legal framework for iguana removal in Florida
Legal Status of Green Iguanas in Florida
As of February 2021, green iguanas (Iguana iguana) are classified as a Prohibited species under Florida law, meaning they cannot be imported, sold, or kept as pets. However, they remain an invasive species that can be removed year-round from private property without a permit.
2021 Prohibited Species Classification
The February 2021 rule change added green iguanas to Florida's Prohibited species list. This classification prohibits possession, import, and sale of green iguanas but does not require permits for removal from private property. Property owners retain full rights to remove iguanas from their land at any time.
Key Legal Points:
- • Green iguanas can be legally removed from private property at any time
- • Property owners have the right to control iguana populations on their land
- • No permit is required to remove and humanely euthanize green iguanas on private property
- • Removal must be conducted humanely in accordance with FWC guidelines
- • Note: Live capture for extended holding may require an Eradication and Control permit - consult FWC regulations
2025 Rule Changes
The FWC has made several important regulatory updates in 2025 that affect iguana management in Florida:
August 20, 2025 - Commercial Sales Now Permitted
Anyone can now apply for a permit to sell wild-caught green iguanas to out-of-state buyers. This opens new economic opportunities while helping control populations.
- • Must meet FWC caging and biosecurity requirements
- • PIT tagging required for iguanas >5" SVL held more than 30 days
- • Sales only permitted to buyers outside Florida
- • Commercial Use permit required
November 2025 - Updated Outdoor Caging Requirements
New options for permittees who need to hold iguanas temporarily:
- • Quarter-inch closed-mesh metal wire now permitted for outdoor enclosures
- • Dig barriers allowed as an alternative containment option
- • All caging must still meet biosecurity standards
Pet Ownership Requirements (Since 2021)
- • Iguanas possessed before the April 2021 rule change may be kept with an appropriate permit
- • New pet ownership of green iguanas is prohibited in Florida
- • Existing pets must be registered with FWC
Humane Removal Requirements
While green iguanas are not protected, Florida law requires that all removal activities be conducted humanely. The FWC has established guidelines for the ethical treatment of iguanas during removal.
Legal Removal Methods Include:
- Live trapping followed by humane euthanasia on-site
- Professional capture and humane euthanasia
- Exclusion and deterrent methods
- Habitat modification
Important: Captured iguanas cannot be relocated or released. Florida law requires humane euthanasia of captured individuals.
Prohibited Methods:
- • Inhumane killing methods that cause unnecessary suffering
- • Poisoning (illegal and dangerous to other wildlife and pets)
- • Releasing or relocating captured iguanas (Florida Administrative Code 39-4.005 - first-degree misdemeanor)
- • Methods that violate local ordinances or HOA rules
Note: Florida law explicitly prohibits releasing captured iguanas on public lands or other properties. Violators face criminal penalties.
Property Owner Rights & Responsibilities
What Property Owners Can Do:
On Your Property:
Remove iguanas yourself or hire professionals at any time without permits
Prevention:
Install barriers, modify landscaping, and take preventive measures
Hire Professionals:
Contract licensed removal services for safe, legal, and effective removal
Protect Property:
Take action to prevent damage to landscaping, structures, and infrastructure
Important Considerations
- • Check local ordinances - some cities/counties may have additional restrictions
- • Verify HOA rules if you live in a community association
- • Never release captured iguanas on public lands or other properties
- • Consider hiring licensed professionals for safe, compliant removal
Why Hire Licensed Professionals?
While property owners can legally remove iguanas themselves, hiring licensed professionals offers significant advantages:
Legal Compliance:
Licensed providers understand and follow all FWC regulations and local ordinances
Humane Methods:
Professionals use approved, humane removal techniques that comply with ethical standards
Safety:
Trained professionals have equipment and expertise to safely handle aggressive iguanas
Effective Solutions:
Licensed providers offer comprehensive removal and prevention strategies
Public Land Removal Program
Executive Order 20-17 (2020) initially authorized year-round removal of green iguanas from 25 public lands in Florida. This program was expanded by Executive Order 23-16 to now cover 32 public lands, including additional state parks and wildlife management areas.
Key Points:
- • 32 public lands now authorized for year-round iguana removal (expanded from 25)
- • Professional contractors are issued permits for public land removal
- • Year-round removal authorized on designated state properties
- • Part of Florida's broader invasive species control program
- • Private property owners are not affected by this program
Additional Resources
For more information about Florida's regulations on invasive species and iguana removal:
- •Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC): Green Iguana Information
- •FWC Nonnative Species: Invasive Species Overview
- •Florida Administrative Code 39-4.005: Regulations on releasing captured invasive species
Last updated: January 14, 2026 - Information reflects current FWC regulations including 2021 Prohibited Species classification and 2025 rule changes
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