Florida is controlling iguanas through legal removal, habitat deterrents, updated permit rules, and statewide programs that encourage homeowners and professionals to act quickly.
Florida’s sunshine and tropical landscapes make it paradise for more than just people, unfortunately, green iguanas think so too. These invasive reptiles aren’t just lounging on docks or basking on rooftops; they’re tearing up seawalls, burrowing under foundations, and raiding gardens like they own the place.
State officials aren’t shrugging it off. From new permit rules to public removal programs, Florida is ramping up efforts to curb the iguana takeover. Homeowners are also being encouraged to act quickly with humane control methods before a few lizards multiply into a destructive colony.
Florida’s Legal Approach to Iguana Removal
Florida wildlife officials have made it clear: iguanas are not protected, which means homeowners have the green light to remove them from private property. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) actually encourages people to take action, as long as it’s done in a safe and humane way.
No special permit is needed if you’re handling the problem on your own land. Public lands add another layer. In some designated areas, like parks or waterways with high iguana activity, FWC allows the public to remove these reptiles without a permit.
This is part of a broader statewide effort to keep their exploding population in check and protect vulnerable infrastructure. There are limits, though. Relocating iguanas is not allowed, and cruel or careless methods can land you in legal trouble. That’s why following FWC guidelines matters, it ensures the reptiles are handled humanely while also protecting you from fines or violations.
Making Florida Yards Less Iguana-Friendly
One of the simplest ways Florida tackles its iguana issue is by cutting off the welcome mat. Iguanas thrive where they find food, shelter, and warmth, so disrupting that balance can push them to move elsewhere. Removing dense groundcover, trimming back trees, and sealing off burrows are small steps that can make a big difference.
Garden choices also matter. Iguanas love munching on hibiscus, bougainvillea, and other tropical ornamentals, which is why many residents are switching to plants they won’t touch. Adding gravel around garden beds, using wire mesh to protect valuable shrubs, and filling abandoned burrows with rocks or concrete discourage them from sticking around.
Florida homeowners are also encouraged to use harmless deterrents like wind chimes, sprinklers, or reflective surfaces. These create an environment that feels uncomfortable for iguanas without harming other wildlife. Combined with proper landscaping, these tactics help reduce the chance of a full-blown infestation.
Florida’s Programs and Community Efforts
Florida isn’t leaving the iguana battle up to homeowners alone. State and local programs are rolling out large-scale efforts that combine expertise, education, and community support:
- Targeted removal projects: FWC organizes removal operations in hotspots like Boca Raton and Davie, where iguanas have damaged canals, seawalls, and native wildlife habitats.
- Volunteer involvement: Trained volunteers often work alongside licensed trappers to expand the reach of these removal projects.
- Public education campaigns: Workshops, neighborhood meetings, and online resources teach residents how to spot burrows, cut off food sources, and handle iguanas legally and humanely.
- Local government partnerships: Cities and counties contract removal services to clear iguanas from public spaces such as golf courses, parks, and waterways.
- Community-wide defense: Coordinated strategies ensure that private efforts at home are supported by broader regional actions, making the overall impact much stronger.
Florida’s New 2025 Permit Rules
Florida recently tightened its regulations to keep iguana control consistent across the state. As of August 2025, anyone holding iguanas for more than 30 days must apply a PIT tag for identification. This ensures accountability and prevents illegal breeding or release back into the wild.
The new rules also allow permitted sellers to transfer live iguanas out of state, but only under strict guidelines. Breeding remains prohibited, and any discovered eggs must be destroyed to prevent future population growth. These changes aim to close loopholes that once allowed the reptile trade to fuel the invasion problem.
For property owners, the message is clear: iguana management is now a serious, regulated issue. Following these rules keeps removal efforts humane and legal while ensuring the reptiles don’t slip back into Florida’s ecosystems.
When Iguanas Show Up in the Strangest Places
Florida residents know iguanas don’t stick to the obvious spots like docks and gardens. They’ve been discovered in fireplaces, using roof access and palm trees to wiggle their way inside homes. It’s not just unsettling, it’s a fire hazard and a property damage nightmare.
In one bizarre case, a resort pool slide was shut down when a female iguana became lodged inside, carrying around 30 eggs. Situations like these highlight just how resourceful and disruptive these reptiles can be when left unchecked.
Stories like these remind homeowners that iguanas aren’t just a backyard nuisance. They can cause damage in the most unexpected areas, making professional removal not just helpful but sometimes absolutely necessary.
Why AAAC’s Approach Works?
Florida’s rules can feel like a maze, and not every method homeowners try is safe or legal. That’s where AAAC Wildlife Removal steps in, bringing both expertise and compliance to the table. Our team knows how to follow FWC regulations while still getting iguanas off your property quickly and effectively.
We don’t waste time on shortcuts. From humane capture techniques to property-specific deterrents, our methods are designed to solve the problem without creating new ones. Relocation may sound nice, but since it’s illegal in Florida, we stick to approved practices that keep you out of trouble.
What sets AAAC apart is versatility. Whether iguanas are burrowing into your yard, climbing onto your roof, or even turning up in strange places like fireplaces, we’ve seen it all, and we know how to handle it. The goal isn’t just to remove the lizards, but to give homeowners long-term peace of mind.
What Homeowners Can Do Right Now?
Florida’s iguana problem might feel overwhelming, but there are practical steps you can take immediately to protect your property. These actions pair well with professional help to keep infestations from spiraling out of control.
- Inspect your property: Look for burrows, droppings, and damaged plants that signal iguana activity.
- Remove temptations: Swap out iguana-friendly plants with tougher species, and secure garbage or compost piles.
- Add simple deterrents: Reflective surfaces, sprinklers, or wind chimes can make your yard less inviting.
- Block entry points: Seal gaps under decks, fill burrows with rocks, and cap open vents where iguanas might sneak in.
- Get expert help: If iguanas are nesting or causing structural damage, professional removal is the safest and most effective option.
Taking action early makes a huge difference. A few iguanas today can turn into dozens tomorrow, so consistent checks and fast responses are the key to staying ahead.
The Bottom Line on Florida’s Iguana Battle
Florida isn’t sitting back while iguanas dig up yards and wreck infrastructure. Through state laws, permit updates, and community-wide removal programs, the fight against these invasive reptiles is active and ongoing.
Homeowners are also expected to play their part by making properties less attractive and taking quick action when signs of iguanas appear. AAAC Wildlife Removal brings the missing piece, professional expertise that turns confusing rules into clear, effective solutions.
With humane methods, property-specific strategies, and years of experience, we make sure the iguanas are gone and stay gone. The end goal is simple: keep Florida homes, gardens, and neighborhoods free from the chaos these lizards cause.
Take Back Your Property from Iguanas!
You don’t have to fight Florida’s iguana invasion alone. AAAC Wildlife Removal is ready to step in with proven, humane solutions that follow state guidelines and actually work. From sealing burrows to safely removing stubborn lizards, our team handles the messy parts so you can get back to enjoying your home.
Don’t wait until a few iguanas turn into a colony. Call AAAC Wildlife Removal today! and let’s reclaim your yard, garden, and peace of mind before the damage multiplies.
