How to Handle Unwanted Guests Safely and Legally
With its mild winters and lush landscapes, Florida provides the perfect environment for animals to stay active all year. While most wildlife prefer to remain outdoors, some species find their way into attics, vents, or sheds in search of shelter. When this happens, it’s important to understand what the law allows. Handling, trapping, or moving animals without proper permission can result in fines or legal consequences which is where professional wildlife control services come in.
This guide outlines how wildlife control is managed across Florida, what rules apply to common nuisance species, and how homeowners can respond safely and responsibly. These protections support native animals but can also make control efforts more complex, as many removal methods are limited or time-sensitive.
Understanding Florida’s Wildlife Removal Services
The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) oversees wildlife control statewide. The agency works to protect both people and animals by regulating how nuisance wildlife can be caught, relocated, or released. Its rules aim to prevent animal cruelty, safeguard endangered species, and reduce the risk of disease.
Key requirements include:
- Permits may be needed to trap or move wildlife, even on private land
- Traps must be checked every 24 hours and used in humane ways
- Moving wildlife across county lines requires written approval from the FWC
- Poisoning or drowning animals is against Florida Statute 828.12
- Protected species cannot be disturbed during nesting or maternity periods
Before taking action, residents should always review FWC guidance to confirm which steps are legal for each type of animal.
These protections are vital for conservation but can make managing infestations more challenging. Homeowners often face waiting periods, limited relocation options, or strict permit rules before removal can happen.
For example, if raccoons get into an attic, homeowners must confirm removal is allowed and ensure traps meet humane standards. While waiting, they can seal gaps, secure trash, or trim branches touching the roof to manage the issue safely and within the law.
Humane Wildlife Control and Prevention
Florida encourages prevention before removal. Preventive steps are always legal, simple to apply, and often the best way to avoid conflicts.
Recommended prevention tips:
- Seal small openings around vents, eaves, and crawl spaces
- Close garbage lids and remove outdoor food sources
- Trim branches that touch the roof
- Inspect attics and sheds before breeding seasons
These practices form the basis of humane wildlife control, helping keep animals outside without harming them. Prevention protects your home and supports Florida’s long-term conservation efforts.
For instance, if bats are roosting behind roof tiles, waiting until the end of the maternity season before sealing the space ensures they can leave safely without being harmed.
Did you know? In Florida, most wild animals are considered state property. Catching or relocating them without authorization can be treated as a wildlife offense.
Raccoon Restrictions in Florida
Raccoon Removal
Raccoons are among the most common nuisance animals in Florida, but they remain protected under state law. They cannot be freely moved or exterminated without following official procedures.
Important limitations:
- Raccoons may not be moved off property or across county lines without written approval.
- Only humane live traps are permitted, and they must be checked daily.
- Feeding raccoons is illegal because it spreads disease and encourages dependency.
Because of these restrictions, raccoon control focuses on prevention and deterrence rather than relocation. Homeowners can close crawlspace openings, store pet food indoors, and keep outdoor areas clear. When trapping is necessary, a licensed wildlife operator can make sure it complies with state law.
Tip: Take action early. Keep garbage bins closed, cut back limbs near the roof, and seal small entry points. These steps are safe, effective, and fully legal.
Bat Protection and Seasonal Rules
Bat Exclusion
All bats in Florida are protected because they help control insect populations. The FWC enforces a bat exclusion ban from April 15 to August 15, when mothers are raising their young. During this period, removing or blocking roosts is prohibited.
Outside those dates, exclusion work can be done using approved one-way devices that let bats exit but prevent re-entry. At no time may bats be killed, trapped, or disturbed.
Legal exclusion methods include:
- Identifying roost sites and confirming the exclusion window has ended
- Installing one-way tubes or netting that allow a safe exit
- Sealing every opening once the colony is gone
If bats are discovered during the closed season, homeowners should clean affected areas and manage odors while waiting for legal exclusion to resume. Acting too soon can harm young bats and lead to fines. Proper timing ensures humane and lawful results.
How Wildlife Removal Services Stay Compliant
Humane Wildlife Removal
Licensed wildlife control companies in Florida must follow strict FWC and federal standards, just as homeowners must. Their goal is to remove animals safely while staying within the law.
Professional operators must:
- Correctly identify the species before acting
- Confirm whether it is protected or restricted
- Avoid exclusion during breeding or maternity times
- Record and report activity to the FWC when required
Even if you handle prevention yourself, knowing how professionals operate helps you make informed, compliant choices when wildlife becomes a problem.
Wildlife Management Challenges and Legal Solutions
Florida’s wildlife laws are designed to protect both residents and native species. Limited removal windows, permit requirements, and humane handling rules can delay solutions, but they also help preserve Florida’s unique ecosystems.
To stay compliant and reduce frustration:
- Inspect your property before peak breeding seasons
- Seal openings early to prevent nesting
- Learn seasonal restrictions from the FWC website
- Contact a licensed wildlife operator when removal is necessary
These steps help homeowners manage wildlife responsibly and avoid legal issues.
Protect Your Home the Right Way
Florida’s wildlife laws safeguard both communities and native species, but they also require patience and planning. By focusing on prevention and understanding what is allowed, you can handle wildlife concerns responsibly.
Start by learning which actions are legal in your area. Practicing wildlife prevention services and humane wildlife control helps protect your home and supports conservation across the state.
If you need professional guidance, Florida Pest Control offers licensed wildlife removal services that follow all state regulations and promote humane practices.
Schedule a Wildlife Inspection Today
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It A Good Idea To Call Animal Control?
Yes. If you encounter an injured, aggressive, or potentially rabid animal, contact local animal control or the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). For nuisance animals like bats or raccoons, it’s best to contact a licensed wildlife control operator.
How Do I Control Stray Animals?
Avoid trapping or relocating stray wildlife yourself. Remove food and shelter sources, secure trash, and report domestic strays to your local animal services department.
What Is The Best Way To Keep Bats Away?
Seal gaps and cracks after maternity season, reduce lighting near roosting spots, and install approved exclusion devices. Avoid repellents, which are often ineffective or illegal.
Does A Bat Bite Need A Rabies Vaccine?
Yes. Anyone bitten or scratched by a bat should wash the wound thoroughly and seek medical care immediately. Rabies is serious and requires post-exposure treatment.
Will Bats Chew Through Spray Foam?
No. Bats do not chew building materials, but they can squeeze through small gaps. Use foam along with mesh or caulk for a more secure seal.
What Should I Do With Injured Wildlife?
Do not attempt to care for it yourself. Contact a licensed wildlife rehabilitator or the FWC for guidance on safe and legal handling.
