Thank you for your feedback, and Yes I thought of that, I plan to use aluminum mesh for the top. I was really talking about the sides, because I don't think the radiant heat from the light will be enough to melt the side panels.
I am going to be purchasing a panther chameleon soon and I plan on building my own enclosure. I am wondering if it would be ok to use plastic mesh screening as opposed to aluminum screening. Is this in any way going to be detrimental to the health of my chameleon? I hope you can get back to me...