Miami Gardens vs North Miami
How do exotic pets rules compare between Miami Gardens, FL and North Miami, FL?
Miami Gardens and North Miami have similar restriction levels.
Miami Gardens, FL
Miami-Dade County
Exotic pet ownership in Miami Gardens is regulated by both Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) licensing and Miami-Dade County Code Chapter 5. Miami-Dade County prohibits ownership of certain wild and exotic animals and requires permits for others. Class I and II wildlife require state permits and are generally prohibited in residential areas.
View full Miami Gardens rules →North Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
North Miami follows Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations on exotic pet ownership. Florida requires permits for Class I (wildlife posing significant danger), Class II (potentially dangerous), and Class III (low-risk) wildlife. Many exotic species are banned from private ownership, and conditional species require special permits.
View full North Miami rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami Gardens | North Miami |
|---|---|---|
| State Authority | FL Fish & Wildlife Commission | - |
| Class I Wildlife | Prohibited in residential areas | - |
| Class II Wildlife | Requires FWC license | - |
| Invasive Species | Prohibited (e.g., Burmese python) | Burmese pythons, iguanas banned |
| County Code | Miami-Dade Ch. 5 Animals and Fowl | - |
| Class I | - | Prohibited as personal pets |
| Class II | - | Requires experience + special caging |
| Class III | - | No-cost FWC license required |
| Animal Services | - | (305) 884-1101 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami Gardens FAQ
Can I keep an exotic pet in Miami Gardens?
It depends on the species. Some exotic pets are permitted with FWC licensing, while others are prohibited. Check the FWC classification system for your specific animal.
Do I need a permit for a pet snake?
Certain snake species require FWC Class III licensing (no cost). Burmese pythons and other invasive species are prohibited entirely.
What exotic animals are banned?
Class I wildlife (large carnivores, great apes) are prohibited in residential areas. Miami-Dade County may have additional restrictions beyond state law.
North Miami FAQ
Can I own an exotic pet in North Miami?
It depends on the species. Class I animals (lions, tigers, bears) are prohibited as personal pets. Class II animals require special experience and caging. Class III animals (hedgehogs, sugar gliders, certain reptiles) require a no-cost FWC license. Certain invasive species like Burmese pythons and green iguanas are banned entirely.
Do I need a permit for a pet snake in North Miami?
Non-venomous snakes not on the conditional/prohibited species list require a Class III wildlife license from FWC (no cost). Venomous reptiles require additional FWC licensing and local notification. Burmese pythons and other invasive constrictors are banned.
Who do I contact about exotic animal complaints in North Miami?
Contact Miami-Dade County Animal Services at (305) 884-1101 for exotic animal complaints. For escaped dangerous wildlife, call 911 or FWC's Wildlife Alert Hotline at 888-404-3922.
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