Animal Ordinances in Homestead, FL (2026)
7 verified animal ordinances for Homestead, Florida, sourced directly from the municipal code and official government pages.
Verified from official government sources
Chickens & Livestock
Homestead allows chickens on residential properties subject to Miami-Dade County animal regulations and local zoning. Roosters may be restricted due to noise. Coops must maintain setbacks from neighboring properties. Homestead's agricultural character means more flexibility than urban Miami-Dade communities. Livestock keeping depends on lot size and zoning district.
Homestead Chickens & Small Livestock Rules
Some RestrictionsDog Leash Laws
Dogs in Homestead must be on a leash when in public spaces under Miami-Dade County Code Chapter 5. Leashes must be no longer than 6 feet and held by a person capable of controlling the dog. Off-leash dogs are permitted only in designated dog parks. Owners must clean up after their dogs in public areas.
Homestead Dog Leash Laws
Some RestrictionsMiami-Dade Animal Services — Regulations (Leash Law / Dog License / Dangerous Dogs)
Leash Law: When a dog goes off private property, it must be leashed at all times. Dogs are not permitted to roam free off private property. [...] Dog License: License tags are required for all dogs. Tags must be renewed one year from the last date of purchase. It's the law. [...] Dangerous Dogs Registry: An owner whose dog has been declared dangerous must register the dog with Animal Services w...
Breed Restrictions
Miami-Dade County, including Homestead, bans pit bull-type dogs under County Code Section 5-17.1. This is one of the few remaining breed-specific bans in Florida. Owning, keeping, or harboring pit bulls is illegal and subject to seizure and euthanasia. No grandfather clause exists for existing dogs.
Homestead Pit Bull Ban (Miami-Dade County)
Heavy RestrictionsFla. Stat. § 767.14
breed, weight, or size and that the provisions of this act are not lessened by such additional regulations or requirements. History. — s. 5, ch. 90-180; s. 5, ch. 2016-16; s. 1, ch. 2023-253. Home Senators Senator List Find Your Legislators District Maps Vote Disclosures Committees Committee List Committee Publications Search Bill Search Tips Statute Search Tips Site Search Tips Session Bills C...
Beekeeping
Florida encourages beekeeping under FL Statute Section 586 and the Florida Bee Act. Homestead beekeepers must register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services. Hives must be managed responsibly with adequate water sources and setbacks. Homestead's tropical agriculture makes beekeeping particularly beneficial for pollination.
Homestead Beekeeping Rules
Few RestrictionsFla. Stat. Chapter 586
— (1) The authority to regulate, inspect, and permit managed honeybee colonies and to adopt rules on the placement and location of registered inspected managed honeybee colonies is preempted to the state through the department and supersedes any related ordinance adopted by a county, municipality, or political subdivision thereof. (2) The department shall: (a) Administer and enforce this chapte...
Exotic Pets
Exotic pet ownership in Homestead is heavily regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). Many reptile species are banned or require permits following the Burmese python crisis in the Everglades. Primates, large cats, and venomous reptiles require Class I, II, or III wildlife licenses. Miami-Dade County adds additional restrictions.
Homestead Exotic Pet Regulations
Heavy RestrictionsWildlife Feeding
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 Wildlife Feeding Restrictions
Some RestrictionsFla. Stat. § 379.412
Animals held in captivity; 2. Restricting the taking or hunting of species over bait or intentionally placed or deposited food; or 3. Restricting the taking or hunting of species in proximity to feeding stations. (2) A person who violates a prohibition or restriction identified in subsection (1): (a) For a first violation, commits a noncriminal infraction, punishable by a civil penalty of $100....
Livestock
Homestead has a strong agricultural heritage, and livestock keeping is permitted on properties with appropriate zoning. Agricultural (AU) zoned properties can keep horses, cattle, goats, sheep, and pigs. Residential lots generally cannot keep large livestock. Florida's Right to Farm Act protects established agricultural operations.
Homestead Livestock Regulations
Some RestrictionsFla. Stat. 823.14
823.14 Florida Right to Farm Act. — (1) SHORT TITLE. — This section shall be known and may be cited as the "Florida Right to Farm Act." [...] (3) DEFINITIONS. [...] (d) "Farm operation" means all conditions or activities by the owner, lessee, agent, independent contractor, or supplier which occur on a farm in connection with the production of farm, honeybee, or apiculture products or in connect...
Looking for Miami-Dade County county-wide rules?
County ordinances apply to unincorporated areas and may supplement Homestead city rules.
Animal Ordinances in Miami-Dade County →