⚖️ Where Are Iguanas Legal? A State-by-State Guide
Iguanas 
are amazing pets — but they're not legal everywhere. Here's where iguanas are banned or restricted in the US, Canada, and around the world. Laws change and cities add their own rules, so always confirm with your state, province, and city before bringing one home.
Quick answer: The green iguana is the most restricted of the common pet lizards. It's prohibited in Florida, where it has become invasive, and banned in cities like New York City. It's also restricted in Hawaii and banned in Iceland, Singapore, and Norway. It's still legal in many other US states (including California) and in the UK, but its large adult size makes it a big commitment.
US states with bans or restrictions
- Florida — Prohibited. Florida added the green iguana to its prohibited-species list in 2021 after it became established in the wild. Owners who already had one needed a free permit to keep it for its lifetime; no new pet iguanas may be acquired. See Florida FWC.
- Hawaii — Banned — no pet reptiles. Hawaii's approved-list biosecurity system keeps almost all non-native reptiles off the islands; this species is on the state's restricted list, allowed only for permitted research or exhibition, never as a private pet. Illegal possession can bring fines up to $200,000. See the Hawaii Dept. of Agriculture.
Other countries with bans or restrictions
- Iceland — Banned. Iceland doesn't allow pet reptiles, largely to protect its isolated island ecosystem and animal-health status (reptiles can carry salmonella).
- Singapore — Banned. Singapore's Animal & Veterinary Service allows only a short list of reptiles as pets, and lizards aren't on it. See the AVS pet list.
- Norway — Banned. Norway permits only a short whitelist of about 19 reptile species as pets, and this lizard isn't on it.
Everywhere else
In places not listed above, iguanas are generally legal to keep as pets — but counties and cities sometimes add their own restrictions, and a few places require permits. A quick call to local animal control (or a search for "iguana laws" plus your city) is always worth it before you fall in love with one.
How to check the rules where you live
- Check your state or province first — that's the list above. Laws change, so confirm with the official wildlife or agriculture department.
- Then check your city or county. Local governments often add their own pet rules on top of state law, even where iguanas are legal statewide.
- Ask about permits. Some places allow iguanas only with a permit or license — a quick call to local animal control will tell you.
- Renters and HOAs: your lease or homeowners' association can restrict pets that your state actually allows.
When in doubt, confirm before you bring one home — it's far easier than having to rehome a pet later.
❓ Common questions about iguana laws
Are green iguanas illegal in Florida?
Yes, as new pets. Since 2021 the green iguana is a prohibited species in Florida. Only owners who registered an existing pet during the 2021 window may keep it, and no new pet iguanas can be obtained.
Can I own a green iguana in New York City?
No. New York City's health code bans keeping iguanas (the whole iguana family) within city limits.
Are green iguanas legal in other US states?
Yes, in most states, including California. The main exceptions are Florida (prohibited), Hawaii (restricted), and certain cities like New York City.
Are green iguanas legal in the UK?
Yes. They aren't a licensed or restricted species, though their large adult size and long lifespan make them a serious commitment.
Why are green iguanas banned in Florida?
Escaped and released pet iguanas established a large wild population in Florida, where they damage landscaping, infrastructure, and native habitat — so the state made them a prohibited species.