There's no single 'iguana license'
There isn't one specific 'iguana license' in Florida, which trips people up. Instead, reputable companies that remove iguanas generally operate under recognized frameworks appropriate to the work they do — commonly pest-control or nuisance-wildlife licensing — and they carry business liability insurance. Because iguanas are unprotected and removal is easy to advertise, a lot of operators have sprung up, and not all of them are properly licensed or insured.
What to ask before you hire
Because the credential picture varies with the exact services offered, the smart move is simply to ask direct questions. A legitimate operator answers them readily.
- What licensing do you hold for this work?
- Can you show current proof of liability insurance?
- Do you follow FWC and humane-handling guidelines?
- How do you dispatch and dispose of captured iguanas?
- Are your technicians covered if they're injured on my property?
Why it protects you, not them
Hiring licensed and insured isn't red tape — it's what keeps you from being on the hook if something goes wrong on your property, whether that's damage to a seawall or an inhumane handling issue. This is general information, not a regulatory ruling on any specific credential, and requirements can vary. But the practical point is consistent: verify before you hire.
Common questions
What should I ask before hiring?
Ask what licensing they hold for this work, for proof of current liability insurance, whether they follow FWC and humane guidelines, and how they dispatch and dispose of captured iguanas. A legitimate operator answers all of this without hesitation.
Is a handyman with a trap fine?
It's a risk. An unlicensed, uninsured person doing dispatch improperly can expose you legally, and you'd have little recourse if they damage your property or handle animals inhumanely. The savings rarely justify the exposure.
Is 'licensed and insured' the same as certified by the state for iguanas specifically?
Not exactly — there's no single state 'iguana certification.' It generally means the operator holds appropriate pest-control or nuisance-wildlife licensing plus liability insurance and follows FWC and humane guidance. Ask them to spell out specifically what they hold.
