Reptile & Amphibian Forums

As a burm owner in FL, there's less than 6 months before this issue comes into effect, but I want to know what EXACTLY I'm supposed to do before it's too late to do so...

I THINK the $100 fee is for EACH year, even if you already owned the burm, right? Or are previous owners grandfathered in? What about those who don't hear about this law but own burms and such? What consequences are there? (Curiosity only on that - I'm following the letter of the law here... don't need to pay tons of fees for not doing it...)

Where do you go to pay the fee and register? When does that have to be done by? What penalties exist if it is late?

Do they come and inspect the caging usually, or is it they might/might not issue? It's not a problem for me, except we'll have to make the time for it... lol!

Outside of the microchip and the licence, is there anything else I have to do here? Is it correct that we have to notify the gov't when the python dies? (that's a ways off, but...)

Thanks a ton for the help. I want to make sure my guy is taken care of. He's happy and very curious about every inch of the house right now - anytime you go near his cage, he'll go right for the door!

~krsytie

Yes, it is $100 per year, payable to the FWC. There is no grandfather clause in this case, all must apply and respond. There are penalties for non-compliance, but it really depends on the FWC officer as to how it is handled. The only benefit for those who are previous owners are an extension until July 2008 for microchipping.

Yes, you open yourself up for inspection; it might or might not happen. There are a lot of things for FWC officers to do and it depends on how high of a priority they make this issue. Don't worry about making time...they might just surprise you!

Payment is sent through the mail along with an application. After that, they will send you a renewal application. Check out the website at www.myfwc.com. There will be a search box in the right upper corner. Just type "python" and the search results will direct you to information on "reptiles of concern". Later on in the year, they might actually have those permit applications more visible with the captive wildlife permits.

I have an inspection scheduled tomorrow so I asked him about the burm laws. He said that the next year is being focused on owner education, understanding that not a lot of people know about the upcoming law or how to comply. They are making a presence at the Daytona Show. For those who are caught in non-compliance after the law goes into effect, the first offense will be handling with a written warning and education. After that, repeated non-compliance will end up in court, fines, and potential forfeiture of the snake.