Ormond Beach's Animal Ordinances: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles animal ordinances a little differently. In Ormond Beach, Florida, there are 4 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Beekeeping

Beekeeping in Ormond Beach is governed by Florida state law (FL §586). FDACS preempts local bans on beekeeping except HOA rules. Beekeepers must register with FDACS. Colony limits under Best Management Practices vary by lot size.

Key details: Registration: Required with FDACS. Preemption: State preempts local bans. Colony Limit (¼ acre): 3 colonies max. Colony Limit (½ acre): 6 colonies max.

Beekeeping complaints are handled through nuisance provisions. Non-compliant apiaries receive correction notices. Fines of $50–$100 apply if setback or flyway barrier requirements are not met within 30 days.

Ormond Beach is more permissive than most cities when it comes to beekeeping. That said, there are still limits.

Exotic Pets

Exotic pet ownership in Ormond Beach is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Permits are required for Class I, II, and III wildlife. Feeding wildlife, especially alligators, is illegal under FL §379.

Key details: Authority: FL FWC permit system. Class I: Prohibited for personal use. Class II/III: Permits required. Wildlife Feeding: Illegal (FL §379).

Possession of prohibited exotic animals: $500–$5,000 fine, animal seizure, and potential misdemeanor charges. Escaped exotic animals creating public danger may result in felony charges and full liability for damages.

Breed Restrictions

Ormond Beach cannot enact breed-specific legislation. Florida law (FL §767.14) preempts all local breed bans statewide. Dogs are regulated based on behavior under the state Dangerous Dog Act (FL §767.01-767.04).

Key details: State Preemption: FL §767.14 — no breed bans. Dangerous Dog: Behavior-based (FL §767). Local Authority: Cannot restrict by breed. Enforcement: Animal & Community Services.

Failure to comply with dangerous dog requirements carries fines of $500–$1,000. Dogs that cause serious injury may be ordered euthanized. Owners face potential criminal charges for negligent handling.

Ormond Beach is more permissive than most cities when it comes to breed restrictions. That said, there are still limits.

Dog Leash Laws

Ormond Beach regulates animals under Chapter 5 (Animals and Fowl) of the Code of Ordinances. Dogs must be under owner control when off the property. On the beach, leashed dogs are allowed from Rockefeller Drive to Milsap Road during sunrise to sunset. Animal & Community Services enforces violations.

Key details: Code Section: Ch. 5 Animals and Fowl. Beach Access: Rockefeller to Milsap Rd. Beach Hours: Sunrise to sunset, leashed. Contact: 170 W Granada Blvd.

Leash violations carry fines of $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second, and $250 for subsequent offenses. Dogs at large may be impounded with retrieval fees of $50–$150. Failure to clean up waste is a $75 fine.

The Bottom Line

Compared to many U.S. cities, Ormond Beach gives residents more room on animal ordinances. 2 of the 4 rules here are rated permissive. But permissive does not mean unregulated. There are still requirements, and the city does enforce them when violations are reported.

These rules come from Ormond Beach's publicly available municipal code. For complete penalty schedules, exemption details, and answers to common questions, see the individual ordinance pages throughout this guide.