Exotic and wildlife species are regulated by the FL Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) under FL Chapter 379. Winter Park prohibits keeping Class I wildlife; Class II requires an FWC permit and city zoning verification.
FWC Class I (tigers, bears, chimpanzees, elephants) cannot be kept as personal pets anywhere in Florida. Class II (cougars, wolves, macaques, most venomous reptiles) require a permit and substantial caging/safety standards. Class III (ferrets, some reptiles, most birds) allowed with a no-cost permit for most species. Winter Park zoning does not permit any Class I/II wildlife in residential zones. Common pets (cats, small dogs, hamsters, parrots, non-venomous reptiles under 6 feet) are unrestricted.
FWC violations are criminal misdemeanors or felonies depending on class. Winter Park zoning violations $250-$500 plus abatement requirement. Animals may be seized by FWC.
Winter Park, FL
Winter Park requires property owners to maintain lots free of accumulated brush, dead vegetation, and combustible debris. Overgrown lots posing fire hazards ...
Winter Park, FL
Consumer fireworks are banned in Winter Park except on the three state-preempted holidays under FL Statute 791.08: July 4, December 31, and January 1. Sparkl...
Winter Park, FL
Open burning of yard waste is generally prohibited in Winter Park. Yard debris must be placed at curbside for municipal collection. Authorization from the Fl...
Winter Park, FL
Tree removal in Winter Park requires a permit for most trees 4 inches DBH or larger. Even with FL 163.045 preemption for dangerous trees, the city requires a...
Winter Park, FL
Winter Park property maintenance code requires lots to be kept free of noxious weeds, invasive species, and excessive ground cover. Brazilian pepper, air pot...
Winter Park, FL
Winter Park is within the St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD). Year-round landscape irrigation is limited to two days per week based on addres...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Orange County.
See how other cities in Orange County handle exotic pets.
See how Winter Park's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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