Exotic pet ownership in Miami is regulated by Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission classes and City of Miami Chapter 6. Class I wildlife (large predators) is prohibited for personal use. Class II and III animals require FWC permits and city compliance.
The City of Miami regulates exotic pet ownership under Chapter 6 of the City Code and Florida Administrative Code Chapter 68A-6. Florida classifies captive wildlife into three classes. Class I animals (lions, tigers, bears, large primates) are prohibited as personal pets unless grandfathered before August 1, 1980. Class II animals (smaller primates, medium reptiles, wolves) require a Class II Wildlife License from FWC with caging and experience requirements. Class III animals (hedgehogs, sugar gliders, certain reptiles) require a no-cost FWC permit. All exotic animals must be housed in secure enclosures preventing escape. Miami-Dade County Chapter 5 adds county-level regulations on keeping wild animals.
Keeping prohibited Class I wildlife results in animal seizure and criminal charges. Unlicensed Class II animals face FWC fines up to $500 and animal confiscation. Report escaped exotics to FWC at 888-404-3922.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Miami-Dade County.
See how other cities in Miami-Dade County handle exotic pets.
See how Miami's exotic pets rules stack up against other locations.
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