Coral Gables, FL Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)
Key Facts
- Pigeon Feeding
- Explicitly prohibited
- Code Section
- Chapter 10, Animals
- Wildlife Feeding
- Prohibited if creating nuisance
- Code Enforcement
- (305) 460-5216
- Common Wildlife
- Iguanas, raccoons, birds
Summary
Coral Gables explicitly prohibits feeding pigeons and wildlife under Chapter 10 of the Code of Ordinances. It is unlawful to feed, keep, maintain, water, or otherwise contribute to pigeons within the city. Additional restrictions apply to feeding wildlife that creates nuisance conditions.
Penalties for feeding wildlife and freshwater fish. F.S. 379.412 379.000000000000 Fish and wildlife conservation 2024.00000000000 VIII 0379.412 412 379.412 Penalties for feeding wildlife and freshwater fish. — (1)(a) The penalties in this section apply to a violation of any rule or order of the commission that prohibits or restricts: 1. Feeding wildlife or freshwater fish with food or garbage; 2. Attracting or enticing wildlife or freshwater fish with food or garbage; or 3. Allowing the placement of food or garbage in a manner that attracts or entices wildlife or freshwater fish. (b) This section does not apply to rules or orders of the commission relating to: 1. Animals held in captivity; 2. Restricting the taking or hunting of species over bait or intentionally placed or deposited food;
Full Breakdown
The City of Coral Gables prohibits wildlife feeding under Chapter 10 (Animals) of the Code of Ordinances. The ordinance specifically makes it unlawful for any person to feed, keep, maintain, water, or otherwise contribute to pigeons in the city. This prohibition extends to providing food, water, or shelter that attracts and sustains pigeon populations. Beyond the specific pigeon prohibition, feeding other wildlife in a manner that creates nuisance conditions, attracts vermin, or endangers public health falls under the city's general nuisance provisions. South Florida's tropical environment supports diverse wildlife including iguanas, raccoons, opossums, and various bird species, and intentional feeding can create conflicts with residents and property damage. Miami-Dade County also has regulations addressing feeding of wildlife on public and private property. Code Enforcement at (305) 460-5216 investigates complaints related to wildlife feeding violations.
Violations & Fines
Wildlife feeding violations are enforced by Code Enforcement at (305) 460-5216. Violations result in citation notices and fines. Persistent pigeon feeding that sustains large populations may result in escalating enforcement action through the Code Enforcement Board.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it illegal to feed pigeons in Coral Gables?
Can I feed birds other than pigeons in Coral Gables?
What about feeding iguanas or raccoons in Coral Gables?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Coral Gables
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Wildlife Feeding in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Miami-Dade County handle wildlife feeding.