“Yes, you can remove green iguanas in Florida without a license—as long as it’s on your private property and done humanely during daylight hours. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission encourages removal of these invasive reptiles, but certain actions like relocation or trapping for others still require proper permits.”
Iguanas may seem like laid-back sunbathers lounging on your seawall or nibbling on your hibiscus, but don’t let their slow crawl fool you. These invasive reptiles can dig deep burrows that weaken foundations, destroy gardens, and damage seawalls across neighborhoods in the Treasure Coast. As their population continues to grow in places like Stuart, Port St. Lucie, and Jensen Beach, more homeowners are wondering if they can take matters into their own hands—and legally remove them.
The good news? Florida law gives you more flexibility than you might expect. In this guide, we’ll break down the rules around iguana removal, explain when you do (and don’t) need a license, and show you why calling AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast can save you time, stress, and potential legal headaches.
What are green iguanas and why are they a concern?
Green iguanas aren’t native to Florida—they’re an invasive species originally from Central and South America. Over the years, they’ve adapted quickly to the state’s tropical climate, especially along the coastlines. You’ll often spot them sunning on docks, rooftops, and canal banks, blending in like they belong.
The problem is, they don’t just sunbathe. Green iguanas dig extensive burrow systems that can erode seawalls, crack sidewalks, and even weaken home foundations. They also feast on ornamental plants and crops, leaving behind droppings that can carry bacteria. For Treasure Coast homeowners, that mix of destruction and health risk makes fast removal a top priority.
Do you need a license to remove iguanas in Florida?
In most cases, you do not need a license to remove green iguanas from your own private property. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) classifies green iguanas as invasive and non-native, meaning they’re not protected under the state’s native wildlife laws. Because of this, homeowners are legally allowed to humanely kill them on-site without a permit—as long as it’s done during daylight hours and within the boundaries of their own land. This rule is meant to help property owners manage the growing iguana problem across Florida without having to navigate a complicated permit process.
However, just because it’s legal doesn’t mean anything goes. The state still enforces strict rules around how these removals are carried out. Using inhumane traps, poison, or firearms—especially in residential areas—can lead to legal trouble or safety risks. Removal must be done humanely, and it must happen on your own property. That’s where expert services like AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast come in. They’re trained to remove iguanas in full compliance with Florida law, using safe, effective methods that protect both homeowners and the environment.
When Do You Need a Wildlife Removal License?
Relocating or Trapping on Public Property
If you plan to trap or relocate iguanas from parks, canals, public trails, or even your neighbor’s yard, you’ll need a permit. Florida law doesn’t allow just anyone to remove wildlife from shared or non-owned spaces. Even with good intentions, stepping onto public land without proper authorization could land you in legal trouble.
Using Traps or Transporting Iguanas
Thinking of trapping an iguana and releasing it somewhere else? That also requires a wildlife license. Live transport of green iguanas—whether to another yard or wildlife facility—is regulated by the FWC. Without a license, even humane efforts can become violations.
Why Work with Licensed Pros Like AAAC
AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast is licensed to handle every part of the process, from trapping to disposal. They follow all state guidelines and use humane, approved methods, so you don’t have to navigate complex legal rules alone.
Can You Safely Remove Iguanas Yourself?
Many homeowners are tempted to try removing iguanas on their own. DIY methods like homemade traps, motion-activated sprinklers, or citrus repellents might seem like an easy fix, and in some cases, they may temporarily scare iguanas off. The issue is, once these reptiles have taken up residence near your seawall, dock, or garden, quick fixes rarely provide long-term relief.
There are also serious risks to consider. Iguanas can become aggressive if cornered, using sharp claws, tail whips, or even bites to defend themselves. Their droppings can carry salmonella, and improper trapping or euthanasia could put you on the wrong side of Florida law. That’s why many Treasure Coast residents trust AAAC Wildlife Removal to do the job safely, humanely, and by the book—no guesswork or gray areas.
Why Hire AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast?
Licensed and Local Experts
AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast is more than a standard pest control company. They’re fully licensed wildlife professionals who specialize in handling nuisance animals the legal and humane way. Their team understands the complexities of Florida wildlife laws, particularly those concerning invasive species like green iguanas, and they operate with the permits and expertise required for safe, effective removal.
Beyond legal knowledge, their team brings hands-on experience with the kinds of environments where iguanas thrive. Whether you’re in a waterfront home in Stuart or a suburban neighborhood in Port St. Lucie, they’ve seen how and where iguanas cause the most trouble. Their local familiarity helps them respond faster and develop customized plans that work in real Treasure Coast settings.
Humane, Strategic Approach
AAAC doesn’t rely on scare tactics or temporary gimmicks. Their removal process begins with a detailed property assessment to understand the full scope of the infestation. From there, they develop a step-by-step strategy using humane traps, safe removal methods, and prevention techniques tailored to your property layout and wildlife pressure.
The real advantage comes after removal. Instead of just clearing out the current problem, AAAC helps you understand why iguanas showed up in the first place. By addressing environmental attractants like food sources, shelter areas, and access points, they help ensure that once the iguanas are gone, they stay gone. That kind of long-term thinking saves you time, money, and future headaches.
Trusted by Treasure Coast Communities
AAAC Wildlife Removal has earned a strong reputation across Treasure Coast communities for their dependable, neighborly service. They respond quickly, show up on time, and provide clear communication every step of the way. There’s no upselling or scare tactics—just honest, knowledgeable guidance and efficient wildlife removal.
From Jensen Beach to Fort Pierce, residents trust them for a reason. AAAC’s team understands how stressful an iguana infestation can be, especially when property damage is involved. That’s why they focus on practical solutions, friendly support, and professional results that give homeowners confidence and peace of mind.
What to Expect During AAAC’s Iguana Removal Process
Step 1: Initial Consultation and Inspection
The process begins with a no-pressure consultation and full property inspection. AAAC’s licensed technicians will assess where iguanas are active, look for signs of damage, and check for burrows or access points. This step helps tailor a removal plan to your specific yard, home layout, and nearby wildlife activity.
Step 2: Customized Removal Plan
Once the inspection is complete, the team builds a removal strategy based on what they find. This includes choosing the right traps, identifying safe trapping zones, and setting a realistic timeline for results. Their plan prioritizes both effectiveness and homeowner safety from the very beginning.
Step 3: Humane Trapping and Legal Compliance
AAAC uses only humane, Florida-approved trapping methods. Iguanas are removed according to FWC guidelines, ensuring full legal compliance throughout the process. The team handles the dirty work—so you don’t have to worry about violating laws or dealing with angry reptiles yourself.
Step 4: Post-Removal Inspection and Cleanup
After removal, the team performs a follow-up to confirm all iguanas are gone. They’ll also clean up any debris, droppings, or leftover nesting materials left behind. This step is crucial for preventing bacteria spread and restoring your property to a safe, usable space.
Step 5: Long-Term Prevention and Repairs
Finally, AAAC offers customized prevention strategies to stop iguanas from coming back. This may include sealing burrow entrances, installing barriers, trimming vegetation, or patching up damage to walls or docks. Their goal isn’t just to remove iguanas—it’s to keep them off your property for good.
Call AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast Today
If green iguanas are tearing up your yard, digging into your seawall, or leaving droppings on your dock, don’t wait for the damage to get worse. With Florida’s laws allowing removal on private property, the best move is to act fast—and legally. AAAC Wildlife Removal of Treasure Coast is ready to help you handle the problem from start to finish, using safe, humane methods that follow all state and local regulations.
From Stuart to Port St. Lucie and everywhere in between, their team delivers fast, professional service tailored to Treasure Coast homes. Call today or request a free quote online to schedule your inspection. The sooner you act, the easier it is to keep your property iguana-free.