SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/reptile-florida-iguana-tegu-ban

Since 2021, what is the rule for getting a new pet green iguana or tegu in Florida?

They can no longer be acquired as personal pets.

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  1. Anyone may buy one
  2. Only children may own one
  3. They can no longer be acquired as pets ✔

Why: On April 29, 2021, Florida listed green iguanas, tegus, Burmese pythons, and other high-risk reptiles as Prohibited species. People who already had them as pets needed a free permit and a microchip tag to keep them.

Huh, didn't know that: Florida's Exotic Pet Amnesty Program helps owners rehome nonnative pets they can no longer keep.

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Why did the tegu get a microchip? It wanted to be a smart lizard.
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References

Answer: They can no longer be acquired as pets. On April 29, 2021, Florida listed green iguanas, tegus, Burmese pythons, and other high-risk reptiles as Prohibited species. People who already had them as pets needed a free permit and a microchip tag to keep them.

  1. Rules for Invasive Nonnative Reptiles (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/rule-development
    Prohibited species may no longer be acquired as personal pets.
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  2. Rules for Invasive Nonnative Reptiles (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/rule-development
    On April 29, 2021, the following high-risk nonnative reptiles were listed as Prohibited species in Florida
    Checked 2026-10-11.
  3. Rules for Invasive Nonnative Reptiles (Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission) myfwc.com/wildlifehabitats/nonnatives/rule-development
    Owners in personal possession of Prohibited species may request assistance with rehoming through the FWC's Exotic Pet Amnesty Program.
    Checked 2026-10-11.

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