Coyote Management: Miami vs New York
How do coyote management rules compare between Miami, FL and New York, NY?
Miami and New York have similar restriction levels.
Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Coyotes are now established across Miami-Dade County. The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission classifies coyotes as year-round huntable wildlife on private land. Miami and Miami-Dade prohibit intentional wildlife feeding, which keeps coyotes from habituating to humans.
View full Miami rules →New York, NY
New York County
New York City Parks and DOHMH manage a small but growing coyote population through coexistence rather than removal. Residents are told to haze, secure trash, and never feed wildlife. NYS DEC bars relocation of healthy coyotes under Environmental Conservation Law and 6 NYCRR Part 180.
View full New York rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami | New York |
|---|---|---|
| Authority | FWC + Miami-Dade Ch. 5 | - |
| Hunting season | Year-round private land | - |
| Feeding ban | Strictly enforced | Health Code §161 |
| Translocation | Prohibited | - |
| Hazing | Encouraged | - |
| Lead agency | - | NYC Parks Wildlife Unit |
| State authority | - | NYS DEC |
| Relocation rule | - | Prohibited for healthy coyotes |
| Permit pathway | - | DEC nuisance wildlife operator |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami FAQ
Can I shoot a coyote in my Miami yard?
Almost never. Discharging firearms inside Miami city limits violates state and local law except in immediate self-defense. FWC allows lethal removal on private land but recommends licensed nuisance trappers in urban Miami-Dade.
Why are coyotes increasing in Miami?
Coyotes filled vacant predator niches and tolerate urban edges. Available pet food, garbage, fallen fruit, and small prey sustain them. Removing food sources and supervising small pets is more effective than trying to eliminate them.
New York FAQ
I saw a coyote in my neighborhood — should I call 911?
Only if it is acting aggressively or injured. Otherwise call 311 to log a sighting. NYC Parks tracks reports and provides hazing guidance; healthy coyotes are not relocated under DEC policy.
Can a private trapper remove a coyote from my yard?
Only a licensed nuisance wildlife control operator with a DEC permit may handle coyotes, and only when the specific animal is documented as aggressive. Routine removal of healthy coyotes is prohibited statewide.
Compare other topics
See how Miami and New York compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool