Manatee County does not license exotic pets; captive wildlife is regulated by the state. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) requires permits under FS 379 and FAC 68A-6 for exotic and Class I-III wildlife.
The Manatee County Animal Ordinance covers dogs, cats, and ferrets and defers wildlife to the state. Keeping non-native or captive wild animals is governed by the FWC under Chapter 379, Florida Statutes, and rule Chapter 68A-6, Florida Administrative Code. Wildlife is classified into Class I (dangerous, e.g. big cats, bears - largely prohibited as personal pets), Class II (permit + experience required), and Class III (permit or no-cost permit for many species). Applicants must meet caging, experience-hour, and liability requirements set by FWC. Because these species fall under FWC jurisdiction, the county does not issue exotic-pet permits; owners deal directly with the state and must also satisfy any Land Development Code zoning limits on where animals may be kept.
Possession of captive wildlife without the required FWC permit is a state offense under FS 379.401/379.404, enforced by FWC officers with fines and seizure.
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