North Miami, FL Animal Ordinances: Wildlife Feeding (2026)

North Miami regulates wildlife feeding through its nuisance and sanitation ordinances. Intentionally feeding wildlife species such as raccoons, opossums, coyotes, and feral cats (outside of organized Trap-Neuter-Return programs) in ways that create unsanitary conditions or attract nuisance wildlife to residential areas is prohibited. The city's proximity to Biscayne Bay, Oleta River State Park, and numerous waterways means residents frequently encounter wildlife including wading birds, iguanas, raccoons, and occasionally American crocodiles. Florida law (F.S. 379.105) makes it illegal to feed or entice American alligators and crocodiles, punishable as a second-degree misdemeanor. Miami-Dade County has additional regulations on feeding wildlife in parks and public spaces. FWC manages wildlife that is injured or poses a threat, reachable at the Wildlife Alert Hotline 888-404-3922. Feeding iguanas is discouraged as they are an invasive species; FWC encourages humane removal from private property. Feeding feral cat colonies must be conducted through approved TNR programs coordinated with Miami-Dade Animal Services at (305) 884-1101 to prevent unchecked population growth.