When it comes to venomous reptiles such as snakes, people prefer to feel as safe as possible. Florida’s Venomous Reptile Caretaker Bond protects the state’s individuals by giving them a way to collect up to $10,000 in reparation should they be harmed in an incident that involves a venomous reptile.

According to Section 379.374 of the Florida Statutes, anyone who captures, keeps, possesses or exhibits any venomous reptile must maintain a valid license and $10,000 surety bond for venomous reptiles.

The Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission lists the following venomous reptiles as being native to the state:

• coral snake
• eastern diamondback rattlesnake
• canebrake rattlesnake
• pygmy rattlesnake
• cottonmouth
• copperhead

Owners of other nonnative venomous or poisonous reptiles must also abide by the same licensing and surety bond requirements.

For more information on the Florida Venomous Reptile Caretaker Bond, individuals can contact the Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission at

Farris Byrant Building
620 Meridian St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399

or by phone at

850.488.4676 (main number)
850.488.6253 (for licenses)