Miami Beach, FL Animal Ordinances: Exotic Pets (2026)

The City of Miami Beach enforces strict exotic pet regulations. Pit bulls are banned outright, and their owners face severe civil penalties under the city's animal control ordinance. Farm animals of any kind are prohibited within the city limits. Residents are limited to a maximum of 10 domestic pets per household, including no more than four dogs. For exotic wildlife, Florida FWC regulates possession through a three-class permit system: Class I (highest risk, including large cats, bears, great apes) requires a special license and is effectively prohibited for private ownership; Class II (medium risk, including smaller primates, alligators) requires a Class II license with experience documentation; Class III (lower risk, including certain reptiles, small mammals) requires a no-cost personal pet license. All wildlife possession must comply with FWC Chapter 68A-6 regulations. Miami Beach Animal Services at (305) 884-1101 handles animal control complaints. Miami-Dade County Chapter 5 (Animals and Fowl) provides additional regulatory authority.