Feeding wildlife in Homestead is discouraged and may violate city nuisance ordinances. Feeding alligators is illegal statewide under FL Statute Section 828.122. The city's proximity to the Everglades means encounters with wildlife including alligators, raccoons, iguanas, and various bird species are common. Trash must be secured to prevent wildlife access.
Homestead's location at the gateway to the Everglades and Florida Keys means residents regularly encounter wildlife. Feeding alligators is a criminal offense under FL Statute Section 828.122, punishable by fines and jail time — this is particularly relevant in Homestead where alligators inhabit canals, lakes, and retention ponds throughout the city. Feeding other wildlife (raccoons, feral cats, iguanas, wild birds) can be restricted under nuisance ordinances if it creates unsanitary conditions, attracts vermin, or causes property damage. Feral cat feeding may be regulated through Miami-Dade County's trap-neuter-return programs. Iguanas, which are invasive in South Florida, can be removed from private property without permits. Trash containers must be secured with lids to prevent access by raccoons, opossums, and other wildlife. Bird feeders are generally permitted but may be restricted if they attract vermin or create nuisance conditions. Feeding wading birds (herons, egrets) is discouraged as it alters natural behavior.
Feeding alligators carries fines up to $500 and up to 60 days in jail. Wildlife feeding creating nuisance conditions carries code enforcement fines of $50 to $250. Contact FWC at (888) 404-3922 for alligator issues.
Homestead, FL
Homestead's zoning code separates industrial and commercial activities from residential areas through buffer zones and setback requirements. Industrial opera...
Homestead, FL
Outdoor music at residences in Homestead must comply with the general noise ordinance. Music audible beyond property lines during quiet hours (11:00 PM–7:00 ...
Homestead, FL
Homestead does not specify numeric decibel limits in its noise ordinance. Instead, the city uses a reasonableness standard based on audibility at the propert...
Homestead, FL
Homestead restricts parking of large commercial vehicles in residential neighborhoods. Vehicles exceeding certain weight or size limits cannot be parked over...
Homestead, FL
Homestead allows installation of home EV charging stations with proper electrical permits. Florida law (FL Statute Section 718.113) protects EV charger insta...
Homestead, FL
Homestead requires vehicles to be parked on paved driveways or designated parking areas. Parking on grass, dirt, or unpaved surfaces is prohibited. Driveways...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Miami-Dade County.
See how other cities in Miami-Dade County handle wildlife feeding.
See how Homestead's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.