Can You Legally Own an Alligator as a Pet in Florida?
Florida allows its residents to own a wide variety of odd animals. Although it may seem easy to purchase one of these permits, there are a few roadblocks set up to ensure you can properly care for the animal. Can you own an alligator as a pet in Florida? Actually, yes. You can legally own an alligator as a pet in Florida but it’s not as simple as that.
The FWC (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) are the rule makers and are in charge of issuing permits for these types of animals. You are not required to own a permit for your average house cat or dog. For exotic animals or ones that can pose a threat to humans, the FWC has special class permits for ownership. You must only obtain these animals through captive-bred, legally permitted sources. Alligators are one of the most dangerous animals in Florida, but if you want to own one, here’s how.
Class III Wildlife:
Let’s start with Class III Wildlife. Exotic birds (parakeets, parrots), small mammals (fox, skunk, raccoon, lemurs), and some reptiles (snakes, lizards) are included. You will need to obtain a Class III Wildlife personal pet permit. These permits last two years and are no cost to the owner. There are a few exceptions to this wildlife class and you will have to show evidence of previous experience and have the necessary caging for the possession of spider, wooly and capuchin monkeys.
Class II Wildlife:
Class II Wildlife includes the American Alligator. These are animals that are “considered to present a real or potential threat to human safety” according to the FWC. These permits cost $140 per year. You will have to show documented proof of extensive experience handling these animals and have the proper caging and acreage. Other animals that are listed as class II wildlife are giraffes, various big cats, ostriches and more.
Class I Wildlife:
Lastly, the most dangerous of animals are listed under Class I Wildlife. Class I Wildlife animals “may not be possessed as a personal pet” as laid out by the FWC and do require a special permit for ownership. Before any permit is issued, a ‘substantial’ amount of experience, cage requirements, and proof of commercial activity must be presented before a permit is issued. A few animals considered to be Class I Wildlife are tigers, lions, elephants, crocodiles, and hippos.
According to the FWC, if you want to bring your Class II or Class III animals out in the public, you will need to obtain an exhibition permit.
For more information on keeping exotic wildlife as a pet, visit here.
