Source-of-Income Discrimination: Miami Beach vs Miami
How do source-of-income discrimination rules compare between Miami Beach, FL and Miami, FL?
Miami has fewer restrictions than Miami Beach.
Miami Beach, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade Chapter 11A bars landlords from refusing to rent based on the tenant's lawful source of income, including Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, Social Security, veterans benefits, and other government assistance. Enforcement runs through the Commission on Human Rights.
View full Miami Beach rules →Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami-Dade County Human Rights Ordinance Chapter 11A bars landlords from refusing tenants based on lawful source of income, including Section 8 housing vouchers. Florida has no statewide rule, but the county ordinance covers the City of Miami.
View full Miami rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami Beach | Miami |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | M-D Ch. 11A | - |
| Added | Source of income, 2019 | - |
| Threshold | 3+ rental units | - |
| Penalty cap | $10,000 plus damages | - |
| County ordinance | - | Miami-Dade Ch. 11A |
| Protected since | - | 2019 amendment |
| Covers Section 8 | - | Yes, vouchers protected |
| State protection | - | None in Florida |
| Civil penalty | - | Up to $50,000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami Beach FAQ
Can a landlord refuse my Section 8 voucher in Miami-Dade?
No, if they own three or more rental units. Chapter 11A makes that a discriminatory housing practice subject to civil penalties up to $10,000.
Where do I file a complaint?
File with the Miami-Dade Commission on Human Rights. Complaints must be filed within one year of the discriminatory act and trigger investigation and possible mediation.
Miami FAQ
Can a Miami landlord refuse my Section 8 voucher?
No. Miami-Dade County Code Chapter 11A makes source of income a protected class, including Housing Choice Vouchers. Refusing a voucher solely because it is a voucher is unlawful discrimination within the city.
Where do I file a source-of-income complaint?
File with the Miami-Dade Commission on Human Rights within 365 days of the discriminatory act. The agency investigates, mediates, and may bring administrative proceedings or refer to county court.
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