Learn about the requirements for moving exotic animals into, out of and within Florida.
While currently not in Florida, New World screwworm (NWS), has been detected in the United States. An NWS Certificate of Animal Movement with prior permission number is required for all warm-blooded animals originating from Infested Zones. For a list of NWS-affected states and the additional interstate import requirements, please visit www.FDACS.gov/nws.
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) and the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) have dual roles in permitting imports of exotic, wild or non-native animal species into the state.
For Cervidae species, see Cervidae Movement Requirements, since there is currently a ban on importation.
Any movement restrictions for intrastate movements of exotic or captive wildlife species are regulated by the FWC. If you have questions concerning movements from one licensed facility or owner to another within Florida, please call (850) 488-6253.
For most non-native captive wildlife, an FWC Import Permit for Captive Wildlife (see FWC website for captive wildlife) must be obtained from the FWC prior to importation. If you have questions regarding FWC's import permits or requirements, please contact the FWC at (850) 488-6253 or cwapps@myfwc.com.
FDACS requires an Official Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health certificate) to accompany the animal at the time of import. The health certificate must be issued by an accredited veterinarian in the state of origin and dated within 30 days of entry into Florida. If you have questions, please contact FDACS at (850) 410-0900.
