Davie, FL Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing law
- § 4-22, wild-animal keeping ban
- Definition
- non-domesticated species (§ 4-21)
- Exempt
- zoos, pet shops, sci. institutions
- Extra step
- state wildlife permit (§ 4-23)
- Max fine
- $500 plus court costs
Summary
The Town of Davie prohibits keeping, harboring, or maintaining any wild, untamed, non-domesticated animal, reptile, or fowl that threatens public safety or health, exempting only zoos, pet shops, and licensed medical or scientific institutions.
No person shall keep, harbor, maintain or permit to be kept, harbored or maintained, within the town any animal, reptile or fowl which by its nature is wild, untamed and not domesticated and which would ultimately constitute a threat to the safety, health or well being of the citizens of the town. This section shall not apply to parks, zoos, pet shops, medical or scientific institutions or other places licensed for the showing or keeping of wild animals or reptiles.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 75).
Full Breakdown
Town of Davie Code § 4-21 defines "wild animals" as species not usually domesticated in the United States, distinct from ordinary household pets. § 4-22 then bars anyone from keeping, harboring, or maintaining such an animal, reptile, or fowl within town limits if it would threaten residents' safety, health, or well-being. The ban does not reach parks, zoos, pet shops, or medical/scientific institutions licensed to show or keep wild animals. Even where an exception could apply, § 4-23 separately requires the keeper to first obtain a wild-animal permit from the state fish and wildlife agency.
Violations & Fines
Violating § 4-22's keeping restriction is a Town Code violation punishable under § 4-68 by a fine up to $500 plus court costs, or referral to the town's code enforcement special magistrate under F.S. ch. 162.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I own an exotic pet like a large snake or primate in Davie?
Does a state wildlife permit override the town's ban?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Davie
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Davie to another location·View the Florida animal ordinances overview
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Exotic Pets in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Broward County handle exotic pets.