Coral Gables, FL Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- Sec. 10-8, Code of Ordinances
- Permit authority
- City manager
- Presumptive denial
- 8 listed dangerous species classes
- Exempt
- Zoos, pet shops, licensed institutions
- Adopted
- Ord. No. 2020-31 (2020)
Summary
Keeping any wild animal in Coral Gables is unlawful unless the city manager grants a permit, and the code presumes denial for venomous lizards, big cats, primates, bears, and other dangerous species.
Except as provided herein, it shall be unlawful for any person or persons to keep any wild animal within the City of Coral Gables provided, however, this section shall not apply to zoos, pet shops, medical or scientific institutions, or other places licensed for the showing or keeping of wild animals.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Fee Schedule: Supplement 2 | Zoning Code: Supplement 1 | Code of Ordinances: Supplement 25 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
Section 10-8 of the city code makes it unlawful to keep any wild animal in Coral Gables, except at licensed zoos, pet shops, or medical and scientific institutions. Anyone seeking a permit must apply to the city manager, who must presume against issuance for eight listed classes: toxic lizards like Gila monsters, lizards over eight feet or 25 pounds, alligators/caimans/crocodiles over four feet, apes, true monkeys, non-domestic carnivores such as foxes and raccoons, horned or hoofed mammals, and elephants. Even animals outside those classes can still be denied if the city manager decides keeping them is dangerous to human safety.
Violations & Fines
Keeping a banned wild animal without a permit is a code violation, punishable under Sec. 1-7 by up to a $500 fine, 60 days in jail, or code enforcement board fines up to $1,000 per day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I keep a monkey as a pet in Coral Gables?
What happens if I keep a banned exotic animal without a permit?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Coral Gables
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Coral Gables to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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