Hernando County, FL Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Summary
Florida bars keeping captive wildlife without a state permit. Section 379.3762 makes it unlawful to possess any wildlife, native or not, until the owner holds an FWC permit. FWC sorts animals into Class I, II, and III, and Hernando County cannot authorize them.
It is unlawful for any person or persons to possess any wildlife as defined in this act, whether native to Florida or not, until she or he has obtained a permit as provided by this section from the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Full Breakdown
Exotic and wild animals are controlled by the state, not Hernando County. Section 379.3762 makes it unlawful to possess wildlife, whether native to Florida or not, without first obtaining a permit from the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. FWC classifies captive wildlife into three tiers: Class I animals such as big cats, apes, and large crocodilians are barred as personal pets except for narrow grandfathered holders; Class II animals like monkeys and alligators require experience and caging standards; and Class III wildlife require a no-cost permit. FWC sets caging, insurance, and property standards and inspects facilities. Hernando County refers exotic-animal complaints to state wildlife officers.
Violations & Fines
Possessing captive wildlife without the required FWC permit violates section 379.3762, and the animal can be seized by state wildlife officers with criminal penalties. Hernando County refers these cases to the Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep an exotic pet in Hernando County?
Who enforces exotic-animal rules?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Hernando County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Hernando County to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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