Orange County Commission Proposes New Regulations to Prevent Wildlife Exhibition Incidents

The Sloth World attraction, which opened in 2023 on International Drive, closed after an investigation revealed that many of the animals died from improper storage conditions in a county warehouse. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission currently regulates exotic wildlife throughout the state.

Commissioner Nicole Wilson said the county has jurisdiction over zoning, business licensing and site compatibility, and that local rules can address community concerns. She noted that her office has received many inquiries about the incident, providing the county a perspective on local impacts. Commissioner Kelly Martinez Semrad expressed support, noting that using public tax revenue to advertise the attraction before the criticism raised concerns about stewardship of public funds.

The County Attorney’s Office will review the proposals and assist in drafting the regulations. Wilson added that facilities that use animals for educational purposes and that demonstrate responsible practices would be exempt from the new rules. State Representative Anna Eskamani described the commission’s action as an important first step and emphasized the need for stronger oversight of exotic animal exhibitions.

The commission plans to finalize the regulations later this year, and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission will review the changes. The final framework will determine how future exotic animal attractions are licensed and monitored in Orange County.