Miami-Dade County addresses animal hoarding through Chapter 5 of the County Code, which limits the number of dogs and cats per household and establishes animal care standards. Hoarding situations involving neglect or cruelty are investigated by Miami-Dade Animal Services.
Chapter 5 of the Miami-Dade County Code limits households to 4 dogs and 4 cats in residential areas unless a special permit is obtained. Exceeding these limits without a permit constitutes a code violation. Animal hoarding cases involving neglect, inadequate food/water, unsanitary conditions, or animal cruelty are investigated by Miami-Dade Animal Services at (305) 884-1101. Multi-agency responses may involve Animal Services, code compliance, and the State Attorney for criminal prosecution under Florida Statute 828.12 (animal cruelty). The county can obtain court orders for seizure of animals in hoarding situations. Repeat offenders may be prohibited from owning animals.
Exceeding animal limits: fines up to $500 per violation. Animal cruelty under FL Statute 828.12: first offense misdemeanor up to $5,000 fine and 1 year jail; aggravated cruelty is a felony up to $10,000 and 5 years. Animal Services can seize animals through court orders. Code Compliance: (786) 315-2800.
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