Responding to Alligator Sightings

Live Alligator:

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) oversees the Nuisance Alligator Trapping Program.

Residents concerned about an alligator should call FWC’s Nuisance Alligator Hotline at 866-FWC-GATOR (866-392-4286).

Usually, an alligator is deemed a nuisance if it is at least 4 feet in length and the caller believes it poses a threat to people, pets, or property.

Residents must make efforts to get educated about the role of alligators in Florida ecosystem and be aware that after such a report, the animal will most likely be euthanized and not relocated. Environmental Resources Division staff can advise residents if needed but this does not concern city staff otherwise.

FL Administrative Code Regarding trapping, handling, and transporting alligators.

1. Only persons under contract with the Commission as nuisance alligator trappers, or their agents and assistants, who have been approved by the executive director, or his designee, shall take, possess, and kill or sell live nuisance alligators as authorized by permit.
2. Persons may apply for nuisance alligator contracts by completing and submitting a Nuisance Alligator Trapper Application (FWC Form 1002AT (2-06), incorporated by reference herein).
3. Five dollars ($5) shall be expended by the Commission or its designee on marketing and education for each CITES tag used under the provisions of this rule contingent upon an annual appropriation by the legislature for marketing and education activities.

Fla. Admin. Code Ann. R. 68A-25.003 - Taking and Disposal of Nuisance-Alligators Statewide

Dead Alligator:

1. If an alligator is found dead (with missing appendages such as head or tail) and poaching is suspected, report wildlife law violations to FWC law enforcement; call the Wildlife Alert hotline: 888-404-FWCC (888-404-3922).
2. If the alligator is found dead in a roadway (car strike) then the City’s solid waste service contractor can remove the animal, or Public Works Transportation Maintenance (311)  or FDOT if on a State Road. (850) 270-1489
3. If the alligator is found dead in a waterbody such as a lake or canal (natural or manmade) and criminal action is not suspected, then it is up to the discretion of the owner of the waterbody to either remove and dispose of the carcass or allow the carcass to decompose naturally. For Cape Coral waterways, contact Public Works Canal Maintenance Division (311) for removal.
4. If the alligator is found dead in a city right of way and no criminal action is suspected, contact Public Works Transportation maintenance (311) for removal.
5. If the alligator is found dead on private property and criminal action is not suspected, the property owner can decide to either dispose of the carcass via their waste collection service (put the carcass in trash bags) or by calling a trapper or pest control company for larger carcasses.