Miami restricts the feeding of wildlife including iguanas, raccoons, feral cats, and waterfowl to prevent congregation, property damage, and public health risks. Florida law additionally prohibits feeding certain protected species like manatees and alligators.
The City of Miami discourages and in some cases prohibits feeding wild animals that cause nuisance conditions. Feeding wildlife causes animals to congregate, creating sanitation issues and property damage. Feeding alligators is a second-degree misdemeanor under Florida Statute 372.667, punishable by up to 60 days in jail and $500 fine. Feeding iguanas, while not specifically banned by city code, is strongly discouraged as invasive green iguanas cause significant property damage throughout Miami. Miami-Dade County parks prohibit feeding wildlife except at designated areas. Feral cat management follows Trap-Neuter-Return protocols through Miami-Dade Animal Services. Depositing food outdoors that attracts rodents or creates unsanitary conditions violates property maintenance and sanitation codes.
Feeding alligators is a criminal offense under Florida law with fines up to $500. Wildlife feeding that creates nuisance conditions results in code enforcement citations for sanitation violations.
Miami, FL
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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 wildlife feeding.
See how Miami's wildlife feeding rules stack up against other locations.
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