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Moving to Davie, FL?

Here are the local rules you need to know before you unpack.

Every city has its own set of local ordinances that go beyond state and federal law. From when you can mow your lawn to whether you can park your RV in the driveway, these rules affect daily life in ways most people do not expect. This guide covers the key ordinances in Davie across 18 categories and 100 specific rules we track.

16 Permissive73 Moderate11 Strict

🔊 Noise OrdinancesFull noise ordinances guide →

Noise rules affect everything from weekend parties to lawn care schedules. Quiet hours, construction restrictions, and barking dog limits vary widely between cities.

Leaf Blower Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie does not name leaf blowers specifically, but Sec. 15-7(15) bans operating lawn mowers, edgers, trimmers and power-driven hedge shears between 8:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Powered yard tools used outdoors in residential areas are also restricted 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. under the domestic power tools rule, Sec. 15-7(10).

Code reference: Sec. 15-7(15) and 15-7(10)Lawn mowers/edgers/trimmers/shears: Banned 8:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m.

Quiet Hours

Some Restrictions

Davie's noise code sets nighttime sound limits and bans many noise-producing activities between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. In residential areas the maximum permissible sound level drops to 50 dBA at night, down from 55 dBA in the daytime, measured at the receiving property's boundary.

Code reference: Chapter 15, Sec. 15-4 and 15-7Residential night limit: 50 dBA, 7:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m.

Construction Hours

Some Restrictions

Davie limits construction noise under Sec. 15-7(14). Without a special variance, construction must not exceed 50 dBA at a property boundary between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. or at any time on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays, and must not exceed 80 dBA at the boundary at any other time.

Code reference: Sec. 15-7(14)Night / weekend / holiday limit: 50 dBA at property line, 7:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. and all day Sat/Sun/holidays

Barking Dogs

Some Restrictions

Davie Sec. 15-7(4) makes it unlawful to own or harbor any animal or bird that frequently or for continued duration howls, barks, meows, squawks or makes other sounds creating a noise disturbance across a residential property boundary or within a noise sensitive zone. The town's code compliance materials confirm excessive dog noise is prohibited.

Code reference: Sec. 15-7(4)Covered animals: Any animal or bird (dogs, cats, birds, etc.)

Amplified Music & Events

Some Restrictions

Davie Sec. 15-7(1) prohibits operating radios, instruments, sound amplifiers and similar devices between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. so as to create a noise disturbance across a property boundary or in a noise sensitive zone, or audible 50 feet from a device in a vehicle. Loudspeakers and PA systems are limited under Sec. 15-7(2).

Code reference: Sec. 15-7(1) and 15-7(2)Radios/instruments/amplifiers: No disturbance across boundary 7:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m.

Aircraft Noise

Few Restrictions

Davie's noise code does not regulate aircraft. Sec. 15-8(5) exempts noise from the movement of aircraft made in accordance with applicable federal laws or regulations. Aircraft noise is preempted by the FAA and the federal Noise Control Act of 1972, so federal rules, not the town code, control.

Code reference: Sec. 15-8(5) (exemption); Sec. 15-8(3)Local aircraft limit: None - exempt from Ch. 15

Vehicle Noise

Some Restrictions

Davie Sec. 15-7 bans operating a defective or overloaded vehicle that makes excessive noise (15-7(12)), modifying a muffler to increase noise above factory levels (15-7(17)), sounding a horn except as a danger warning (15-7(20)), and idling vehicles over 8,000 pounds more than 2 minutes near homes (15-7(16)).

Code reference: Sec. 15-7(12),(16),(17),(20)Muffler tampering: Prohibited if it increases noise above factory level

Decibel Limits

Some Restrictions

Davie Sec. 15-4 Table 1 sets maximum sound levels by receiving land use: residential 55 dBA day / 50 dBA night, office/business 60 dBA at all times, and industrial/utilities 65 dBA at all times, measured at the receiving boundary. Pure-tone sources have these limits reduced by 5 dBA under Sec. 15-6.

Code reference: Sec. 15-4 (Table 1) and 15-6Residential: 55 dBA day / 50 dBA night

Outdoor Music

Some Restrictions

Outdoor music in Davie is governed by Sec. 15-7(1) (radios, instruments and amplifiers) and Sec. 15-7(2) (loudspeakers and PA systems), plus the Sec. 15-4 land-use limits. Music creating a noise disturbance across a property boundary 7:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. is prohibited unless covered by a town-issued permit for a public event.

Code reference: Sec. 15-7(1), 15-7(2), 15-4Night cutoff (devices): 7:00 p.m.-7:00 a.m. no disturbance across boundary

Industrial Noise

Some Restrictions

Davie caps industrial and utility receiving property at 65 dBA at all times under Sec. 15-4. Separately, Sec. 15-7(11) prohibits operating engines, generators, pumps, motors or other machinery, including air conditioning and air-handling equipment, so as to cause a noise disturbance at any time, and Sec. 15-7(9) limits perceptible vibration.

Code reference: Sec. 15-4, 15-7(9), 15-7(11), 15-7(13)Industrial/Utilities limit: 65 dBA at all times

🏠 Short-Term RentalsFull short-term rentals guide →

If you plan to rent out your home on Airbnb or VRBO - even occasionally - you need to know the local STR rules before listing.

Permit Requirements

Some Restrictions

Davie requires every vacation rental (rented to transient occupants more than 3 times a year for under 30 days) to register with the town and obtain a Certificate of Compliance before operating, in addition to a Florida DBPR transient public lodging license. Operating without one is unlawful and citable on the first offense.

Town authority: Davie Code Ch. 16, Art. IX (Ord. O2021-014)STR definition: Rented >3 times/year for periods under 30 days (Sec. 16-151)

Taxes & Fees

Some Restrictions

Davie charges a $500 full-year registration fee (including two inspections), $300 half-year, and reduced renewal fees. Operators must also collect Florida sales tax and Broward County's 6% Tourist Development Tax under Fla. Stat. Sec. 125.0104. Fees are non-refundable.

Full-year town fee: $500 (Oct 1–Sep 30, includes 2 inspections)Renewal fee: $400 owner-occupied / $450 non-owner-occupied

Registration Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie vacation rentals must be registered annually on or before September 30. The application requires owner and responsible-party contacts, maximum occupancy, proof of ownership, vacation-rental home insurance, the DBPR license, and state/county tax registrations. Registration is not transferable to a new owner.

Renewal deadline: Annually on or before September 30 (Sec. 16-152(b))Insurance required: Proof of vacation-rental home insurance (Sec. 16-153(a)(9))

Occupancy Limits

Some Restrictions

Davie limits overnight occupancy to two persons per sleeping room, confirmed by on-site inspection. Total gatherings may not exceed 1.5 times the overnight maximum and never more than 20 people. Up to four children under 13 are exempt; owner-occupied rentals with the owner present are exempt from the gathering cap.

Overnight limit: 2 persons per sleeping room (Sec. 16-156(b)(1))Gathering cap: 1.5x overnight max, never more than 20 people

Parking Rules

Some Restrictions

All vehicles associated with a Davie vacation rental must be parked in the property's driveway, unless the home has designated street parking. No sidewalk, grass, or neighboring-property parking is allowed. The maximum number of vehicles is fixed by the exterior parking sketch filed with the registration.

Primary rule: Park in the property's driveway (Sec. 16-156(a)(6))Street parking: Allowed only where the home has designated street parking

Noise Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie vacation rentals must comply with the town's general Noise code (Chapter 15). Amplified music, radios, and similar devices that create a noise disturbance across a property line are prohibited between 7:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Owners must give guests a copy of Chapter 15 and a responsible party must respond to noise complaints within one hour.

Governing code: Davie Chapter 15, Noise (applied via Sec. 16-153)Amplified-sound hours: Disturbance across property line barred 7 p.m.–7 a.m. (Sec. 15-7)

Primary-Residence-Only Rule

Few Restrictions

Davie does NOT require a vacation rental to be the owner's primary residence. Non-owner-occupied rentals are expressly contemplated and even have their own renewal fee. Florida law (Fla. Stat. Sec. 509.032(7)) bars towns from prohibiting whole-home or non-resident-owned rentals.

Primary-residence required?: NoNon-owner-occupied rentals: Allowed; $450 renewal fee category

Host Presence Rule

Few Restrictions

Davie does NOT require a host or owner to be present during a stay. Instead, the owner must designate a responsible party who is reachable 24/7 and can act on complaints within one hour. Owner presence only matters as an exemption from the gathering cap, not as a requirement.

Host presence required?: No — unhosted whole-home rentals allowedResponsible party: Required; reachable 24/7 (Sec. 16-153, 16-156)

Night Caps

Few Restrictions

Davie sets NO minimum-night requirement and NO cap on the number of rental nights or bookings per year. Florida law (Fla. Stat. Sec. 509.032(7)) preempts local governments from regulating the duration or frequency of vacation-rental stays, so Davie regulates registration and conduct instead.

Minimum nights: None — no minimum-stay requirementAnnual night cap: None — no limit on rental nights/bookings

Insurance Requirements

Some Restrictions

Davie requires proof of vacation-rental home insurance as part of the registration application. The ordinance does not set a specific coverage dollar amount but conditions issuance of the Certificate of Compliance on submitting valid proof of insurance.

Insurance required?: Yes — proof of vacation-rental home insuranceCode basis: Sec. 16-153(a)(9)

🔥 Fire RegulationsFull fire regulations guide →

Fire pit rules, fireworks restrictions, and brush clearance requirements are especially important if you are coming from a state with different fire risk profiles.

Fireworks

Some Restrictions

Davie follows Florida law: consumer fireworks may be used only on January 1, July 4, and December 31. Year-round, only sparklers and approved novelties are legal. Town Code section 7-3 also bans exploding fireworks within 1,000 feet of any livestock enclosure, stable, or kennel.

Legal fireworks days: Jan 1, July 4, Dec 31 (FS 791.08)Legal year-round: Sparklers and approved novelties (FS 791.01)

Fire Pit Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie has no dedicated fire-pit ordinance, but recreational fires are governed by Broward County's open-burning rules (Code Chapter 27, Article IX). Fires used solely for recreation, ceremony, or outdoor cooking are allowed if they create no excessive smoke or nuisance and you obtain approval from the appropriate fire authority.

Recreational/cooking fires: Allowed if no excessive smoke or nuisance (Broward 27-286)Yard-trash burning: Prohibited on occupied residential premises

Outdoor Burning

Heavy Restrictions

Open burning of yard trash and household waste on occupied residential property is prohibited in Davie under Broward County Code section 27-286. Only recreational, ceremonial, or noncommercial cooking fires are allowed, and only with approval from the appropriate fire authority and no excessive smoke or nuisance.

Residential yard-trash burning: Prohibited (Broward 27-286)Allowed: Recreational, ceremonial, noncommercial cooking fires

Brush Clearance

Some Restrictions

Davie has no dedicated defensible-space brush-clearance ordinance like fire-prone Western states. Overgrowth is handled as a nuisance/property-maintenance matter, and residents cannot burn cleared brush - Broward County Code section 27-286 prohibits residential yard-trash burning. Cleared vegetation must be removed or set out for collection.

Defensible-space mandate: No fixed clearance distance for homes in DavieOvergrowth: Handled as nuisance / property-maintenance issue

Backyard Fires

Some Restrictions

Backyard recreational fires are allowed in Davie under Broward County Code section 27-286 only if used solely for recreation, ceremony, or outdoor cooking, with no excessive smoke or nuisance and approval from the appropriate fire authority. Burning yard trash or household waste is prohibited.

Recreational/cooking fires: Allowed with fire-authority approval (Broward 27-286)Prohibited fuel: Yard trash, household waste, trash, treated wood

Smoke Detectors

Heavy Restrictions

Davie enforces the Florida Building Code and Florida Fire Prevention Code, which require smoke alarms in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every story of a dwelling. Carbon monoxide alarms are required outside sleeping areas where fuel-burning appliances or attached garages are present.

Code enforced: Florida Building Code & Florida Fire Prevention CodeSmoke alarms (R314): Each bedroom, outside sleeping areas, every story

Propane Storage

Heavy Restrictions

Davie enforces the Florida Fire Prevention Code (which adopts NFPA 58) for LP-gas. For other than one- and two-family dwellings, LP-gas in quantities greater than 1 pound is prohibited above the first floor, and charcoal or gas grills may not be used on balconies or within 10 feet of a structure.

Governing code: Florida Fire Prevention Code (adopts NFPA 58/NFPA 1)Multifamily LP-gas limit: >1 lb prohibited above first floor

Wildfire Zones

Some Restrictions

Davie is not in a mapped high-severity wildfire zone like the Western states and has no local wildland-urban-interface code. Wildfire risk comes from Everglades-adjacent dry-season conditions. Open burning of yard trash is prohibited (Broward 27-286), and Florida Forest Service issues seasonal burn bans for the area.

Designated WUI zones: None mapped by the Town of DavieRisk driver: Dry-season Everglades-adjacent vegetation

🚗 Parking RulesFull parking rules guide →

Parking rules catch more new residents off guard than almost any other ordinance. RV storage, overnight parking bans, and driveway regulations vary significantly.

RV & Boat Parking

Some Restrictions

Davie allows non-commercial trailers, boats, and RVs registered to a resident, but in most residential districts they must be parked in a carport/garage or in the side or rear yard concealed from public view. Town Code Section 24-43.1 prohibits parking or storing them in a driveway, front yard, sidewalk, or swale area, requiring relocation to the side or rear yard.

Town Code: Sec. 12-33(G) & Sec. 24-43.1Registration: Trailer must be registered to a resident

Street Parking Limits

Some Restrictions

Davie regulates on-street parking through Chapter 24 (Traffic and Vehicles) of its Code of Ordinances, layered on top of Florida's statewide rules. Florida Statute 316.1945 prohibits stopping, standing, or parking in specified places such as on sidewalks, in front of driveways, within intersections, and on crosswalks, and applies on Davie streets unless the Town has adopted stricter local provisions.

Town authority: Code of Ordinances Chapter 24State law: FL Statute 316.1945

Overnight Parking

Some Restrictions

Davie does not publish a blanket town-wide overnight on-street parking ban in its FAQs; overnight parking is controlled by Chapter 24 of the Town Code and any posted signs. The Town does restrict overnight storage of boats, RVs, trailers, and commercial vehicles in residential yards and swales under Town Code Sections 24-43.1 and 12-33(G).

Town authority: Code of Ordinances Chapter 24Blanket car ban: Not published in Town FAQs

Commercial Vehicle Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Davie strictly prohibits commercial vehicles and construction equipment from being parked, stored, or maintained within any residentially zoned district, whether on private property, swale areas, or public or private road rights-of-way, under Town Code Section 12-33(G). Town Code Section 12-33(F) also bars leasing or using a private residential or community garage for a commercial vehicle.

Town Code: Sec. 12-33(G) & 12-33(F)Prohibited zones: All residentially zoned districts

Abandoned Vehicles

Some Restrictions

Davie addresses inoperable and junk vehicles through its property-maintenance and nuisance provisions in the Code of Ordinances, enforced by Code Compliance. For abandoned vehicles on public property, Florida Statute 705.103 governs: law enforcement posts notice and the owner must remove the vehicle within 5 days before it is removed and disposed of under Chapter 705.

Private property: Davie nuisance / property-maintenance codeState law (public): FL Statute 705.103

Driveway Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie regulates driveways and off-street parking through Chapter 12 (Land Development Code, Article VII - Parking) of its Code of Ordinances, including required off-street parking and acceptable parking-surface materials in certain districts. Town Code Section 24-43.1 also bars storing utility trailers, boats, and RVs within driveways, requiring relocation to the side or rear yard.

Town Code: Chapter 12, Article VII (Parking)Eastside surfaces: Turf block, grass, brick, pavers, asphalt, concrete

Oversized Vehicle Parking

Some Restrictions

Davie restricts oversized and recreational vehicles in residential areas through its own Code. Town Code Section 24-43.1 bars utility trailers, boats, and RVs from driveways, front yards, sidewalks, and swales (requiring side or rear yard storage), and Section 12-33(G) prohibits larger commercial vehicles and construction equipment in residential districts, referencing GVWR Classes 1 through 8.

Recreational oversized: Sec. 24-43.1 - side/rear yard onlyCommercial oversized: Sec. 12-33(G) - banned in residential

EV Charging

Some Restrictions

Davie does not publish a separate town ordinance dedicated to EV-charging-space parking; this is governed by Florida law. Florida Statute 366.94 makes it unlawful to stop, stand, or park a vehicle that is not capable of using an electrical recharging station in a parking space specifically designated for charging an electric vehicle, enforced as a noncriminal traffic infraction.

Town ordinance: No dedicated Davie EV-space ruleState law: FL Statute 366.94

Loading Zones

Some Restrictions

Davie regulates off-street loading and loading doors through Chapter 12 (Land Development Code) of its Code of Ordinances. For nonresidential development, exterior loading doors must remain fully closed except during loading and unloading and be screened from public view, with loading areas reviewed during site plan approval. On public streets, posted loading zones and Florida Statute 316.1945 control.

Town authority: Land Development Code (Chapter 12)Loading doors: Closed except during loading; screened

Curb Color Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie does not publish a separate town ordinance allowing residents to paint public curbs; curb markings are official traffic control devices placed by the Town under Chapter 24 of its Code. Florida law (Chapter 316) makes official pavement markings enforceable and prohibits unauthorized signs, signals, or markings that imitate or interfere with traffic control devices on public streets.

Town authority: Code of Ordinances Chapter 24Resident self-painting: Not authorized on public curbs

🧱 Fence RegulationsFull fence regulations guide →

Planning to put up a fence? Height limits, material restrictions, and permit requirements differ by city - and sometimes by which side of the property the fence sits on.

Height Limits

Some Restrictions

In the Town of Davie, residential fences and walls may not exceed 6 feet along a plot line, or 8 feet where the line abuts non-residentially zoned property, under Land Development Code Sec. 12-33(O)(1). Near street-corner intersections an opaque fence is capped at 2 feet. Rural Lifestyle (AG, A-1, R-1) lots follow stricter limits in Sec. 12-287.

Residential max (plot line): 6 ft (Sec. 12-33(O)(1))Adjacent to non-residential: 8 ft (Sec. 12-33(O)(1)-(2))

Material Restrictions

Some Restrictions

In standard Davie zoning districts, common materials (wood, chain link, PVC, metal, aluminum, masonry) are allowed if built to code; masonry screen walls must be stucco-finished both sides and painted (Sec. 12-33(O)(9)). The Rural Lifestyle area (AG, A-1, R-1) restricts fences to specific styles under Sec. 12-287: split rail, green/black vinyl-clad chain link, and white/black/earth-tone picket.

Standard districts: Wood, chain link, PVC, metal, aluminum, masonry allowedRural Lifestyle styles: Split rail, vinyl-clad chain link, white/black/earth-tone picket

Permit Requirements

Some Restrictions

Davie requires a building (structural) permit for fences. The Building Division's Fence Checklist calls for a building permit application, a signed/notarized addendum, and a signed/sealed survey, with review by Planning & Zoning, Structural and Engineering. PVC, metal or aluminum fences need signed/sealed engineered plans; wood and chain-link fences may follow the Florida Building Code.

Permit type: Structural (building) permitKey submittals: Application, signed addendum, signed/sealed survey

Neighbor Fence Rules

Few Restrictions

Davie's Land Development Code regulates fence height, materials and placement but sets no town finished-side ('good side out') rule or shared-cost rule for boundary fences. The Fence Zoning Requirements note that a fence drawn on a property line is assumed to sit entirely within the applicant's lot. Boundary and cost disputes follow Florida law and HOA rules.

Finished-side rule: No townwide good-side-out requirement foundCost-sharing rule: Not set by Town code (civil/Florida law)

Fence Requirements

Some Restrictions

Davie fences must meet the design standards of Sec. 12-33(O), the sight-distance rules of Sec. 12-113, and construction specs of the Florida Building Code (post sizes, footings). A permit, signed/sealed survey and highlighted site plan are required. Rural Lifestyle (AG, A-1, R-1) lots have extra style and opacity rules under Sec. 12-287.

Design standard: Sec. 12-33(O)Sight distance: Sec. 12-113 (12/25/40 ft triangles)

Retaining Walls

Some Restrictions

Davie has no separate retaining-wall height ordinance for standard zoning districts; structural retaining walls are permitted and engineered under the Florida Building Code with a Town building permit. In the Rural Lifestyle area (AG, A-1, R-1), Sec. 12-287(B) limits walls to 3 feet, prohibits them in scenic-corridor buffers, and states no wall may be placed atop a berm.

Standard districts: Permit + Florida Building Code (no separate height cap found)Rural Lifestyle wall max: 3 ft (Sec. 12-287(B)(6))

Approved Materials

Some Restrictions

Davie permits standard fence materials with proper engineering: PVC, metal and aluminum fences need plans signed and sealed by a Florida-licensed architect or engineer, while wood and chain-link fences may be built per the Florida Building Code. Pre-cast concrete post-and-panel needs a Special Inspector. Rural Lifestyle (AG, A-1, R-1) lots are limited to specific approved styles under Sec. 12-287.

PVC / metal / aluminum: Signed/sealed engineered plans requiredWood / chain link: May follow Florida Building Code

🐔 Animal OrdinancesFull animal ordinances guide →

Pet owners and aspiring chicken keepers should check local animal ordinances before signing a lease or closing on a home.

Beekeeping

Some Restrictions

Davie permits beekeeping in its RR, AG, and A-1 districts on a minimum plot of five acres, with hives located at least 100 feet from all property lines, per the Town's agricultural-use rules. However, Florida Statute 586.10 preempts local regulation of honeybee colonies, so registered beekeepers following the state's managed beekeeping framework are largely governed by state law.

Town Beekeeping Districts: Permitted in RR, AG, and A-1 districtsMinimum Plot: 5 acres

Dog Leash Laws

Some Restrictions

Davie Town Code Chapter 4, Article IV requires every dog to be on a leash, in the owner's presence, or fenced within the owner's property. A dog 'at large' is declared a public nuisance and may be impounded, with the owner subject to a fine up to $500 under Sec. 4-68.

Code Section: Davie Town Code Ch. 4, Art. IV, Secs. 4-61, 4-63 (Ord. 99-2)Control Required: Leash/cord/chain, owner presence, or fenced confinement

Chickens & Livestock

Some Restrictions

Davie permits up to three poultry or fowl as pets in any residential district. Larger flocks - up to 25 poultry (RR/AG/A-1) or 5 poultry (R-1) - are allowed only on lots of 35,000 square feet or more in agricultural and estate districts, and must be kept in a completely penned area under Town Code Sec. 12-34(B).

Code Section: Davie Town Code Sec. 12-34(B) (Ord. 2003-044)Pet Poultry Limit: Up to 3 poultry/fowl as pets in all residential designations

Breed Restrictions

Few Restrictions

The Town of Davie does not impose any breed-specific dog ban. Florida Statute 767.14 prohibits local governments from adopting any dog regulation specific to breed, weight, or size, and as of October 1, 2023 even pre-1990 grandfathered breed bans are void statewide. Davie instead regulates 'vicious dogs' by behavior under Town Code Sec. 4-64.

Town Breed Ban: None - no breed-specific ordinance in DavieState Preemption: Fla. Stat. 767.14 - no breed/weight/size-specific local rules

Pet Limits

Few Restrictions

Davie's Town Code does not set a numeric cap on the number of pet dogs or cats a household may keep. Instead, each dog must be licensed and rabies-vaccinated (Sec. 4-62) and kept under control, and excessive numbers are addressed through nuisance, animal-care, and anti-hoarding provisions. Up to three poultry/fowl may also be kept as pets in any residential district.

Dog/Cat Numeric Limit: No fixed per-household cap in the Davie codePet Bird Limit: Up to 3 poultry/fowl as pets in residential districts

Exotic Pets

Some Restrictions

Davie has no separate exotic-pet ordinance; possession of exotic and wild animals is governed by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC). FWC classifies wildlife as Class I, II, or III, requires permits for Class I/II species and venomous reptiles, and bans many Class I animals as pets under Chapter 379, F.S.

Town Exotic Ordinance: None - governed by state FWC rulesState Regulator: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC)

Livestock

Some Restrictions

Davie is a 'horse country' town whose code (Sec. 12-34(B)) allows livestock - horses, cattle, goats, sheep - only in the RR, AG, A-1, and R-1 districts. On a 35,000+ sq ft lot, up to 8 livestock are allowed (max 4 cattle/horses), with stable setbacks of at least 40 feet.

Code Section: Davie Town Code Sec. 12-34(B); Ch. 4, Art. II (Livestock)Allowed Districts: RR, AG, A-1, R-1 (plus legal farm uses)

Cat Rules

Few Restrictions

Davie's animal control ordinance (Chapter 4) focuses on dogs and livestock and does not impose a leash or confinement requirement on cats. Florida has no statewide cat leash law, and in Broward County cats are treated as free-roaming animals. Cats four months and older must still be rabies-vaccinated under Section 828.30, Florida Statutes, with registration through Broward County.

Town Cat Leash Rule: None - Davie has no cat leash/confinement ordinanceState Cat Leash Law: None - Florida has no statewide cat leash law

Wildlife Feeding

Some Restrictions

Davie has no dedicated wildlife-feeding ordinance; feeding wildlife is regulated by the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Rule 68A-4.001 bars feeding pelicans, sandhill cranes, and primates and placing food that attracts bears, foxes, coyotes, and raccoons; feeding alligators is also illegal, with escalating penalties under Section 379.412, F.S.

Town Ordinance: None specific - governed by Florida FWC rulesProhibited Feeding: Pelicans, sandhill cranes, primates (68A-4.001)

Animal Hoarding

Some Restrictions

Davie expressly prohibits animal hoarding in its cruelty ordinance, Town Code Sec. 4-65.2, which makes it a violation to hoard animals or otherwise treat an animal cruelly or inhumanely. The town also enforces minimum manner-of-keeping standards (Sec. 4-65.3). Hoarding cases are backed by Florida's cruelty and confinement statutes, Sections 828.12 and 828.13, Florida Statutes.

Town Hoarding Rule: Expressly prohibited (Davie Code Sec. 4-65.2)Manner of Keeping: Humane conditions, food, water, vet care required (Sec. 4-65.3)

🌿 Landscaping RulesFull landscaping rules guide →

From grass height limits to tree removal permits, landscaping rules can surprise new homeowners, especially in drought-prone areas with water restrictions.

Rainwater Harvesting

Few Restrictions

Davie publishes no ordinance prohibiting residential rain barrels or rainwater harvesting, and the practice fits the town's broader water-conservation goals. Florida law encourages efficient irrigation: Florida Statute 373.62 requires rain-sensor shutoff devices on automatic irrigation systems. No town permit is identified for a basic residential rain barrel.

Town prohibition: None identifiedPermit for rain barrel: None identified

Grass Height Limits

Some Restrictions

Davie does not publish a numeric grass-height limit in inches. Instead, two town code sections require owners to keep property free of weeds and debris and to maintain landscaped areas in a live, healthy, watered and trimmed condition. Code Compliance enforces overgrowth as a nuisance.

Numeric height limit: None published by townWeeds/debris rule: Town Code Sec. 9-51(b)

Tree Trimming

Some Restrictions

Davie residents may prune their own trees only if work follows the ANSI A300-2001 tree-care standard and trees are not abused. Prohibited practices such as topping, hat-racking and flush cutting are barred under Sec. 12-145. Hired tree services must hold a valid Broward County Tree Trimmer's License and be insured.

Self-pruning standard: ANSI A300-2001Prohibited practices: Topping, hat-racking, flush cut, over-lifting

Tree Removal & Heritage Trees

Heavy Restrictions

In most situations Davie requires a tree removal/relocation permit before taking down a tree. The application is inexpensive ($35 for up to two trees on a single-family lot, including inspection). Removing a tree generally requires planting one or more replacement trees. Invasive/exotic species listed in Sec. 12-152 are exempt.

Permit required: Yes, in most situationsPermit fee: $35 for up to 2 trees (single-family lot)

Weed Ordinances

Some Restrictions

Davie requires owners and occupants to keep property free from weeds and debris under Town Code Sec. 9-51(b). Landscaped areas must be maintained live, healthy, watered and trimmed under Sec. 12-33(s). The town publishes no specific weed-height number; Code Compliance addresses overgrowth as a nuisance case-by-case.

Weeds/debris duty: Town Code Sec. 9-51(b)Maintenance duty: Town Code Sec. 12-33(s)

Water Restrictions

Heavy Restrictions

Davie follows the regional two-day-per-week year-round landscape irrigation restrictions set by the South Florida Water Management District and Broward County. Odd addresses water Wednesday and Saturday; even addresses Thursday and Sunday. No irrigation is allowed between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. The rule sits in Town Code Chapter 25-32.

Days (odd addresses): Wednesday & SaturdayDays (even addresses): Thursday & Sunday

Native Plants

Few Restrictions

Davie's landscape code requires plantings drawn from the town's Landscape Materials List and sets tree/shrub minimums by lot size (Sec. 12-111). Florida law (Statute 373.185) protects a homeowner's right to install Florida-Friendly Landscaping - water-conserving, drought-tolerant native plantings - against deed restrictions that would prohibit it.

Town landscape standard: Sec. 12-111 (varies by lot size)Approved plants: Town Landscape Materials List

Artificial Turf

Some Restrictions

Davie's published landscape code does not separately authorize residential artificial turf, but a 2024 Florida law (Statute 125.572) preempts local bans: cities and counties may not prohibit a single-family homeowner (on lots of one acre or less) from installing synthetic turf that meets statewide FDEP standards. FDEP proposed those minimum standards in early 2026.

Town turf ordinance: None published (residential)State preemption: FS 125.572 (2024)

Composting

Few Restrictions

Davie publishes no ordinance prohibiting backyard composting and provides guidance encouraging residents to compost food scraps, leaves and woody yard material following EPA home-composting guidelines. Yard waste is handled through Broward County drop-off centers. Garbage and refuse generally are governed by Town Code Chapter 9.

Backyard composting: Encouraged, not prohibitedTown guidance: Follow EPA home-composting guidelines

💼 Home BusinessFull home business guide →

Working from home is common, but running a business from home often requires permits and must comply with zoning restrictions on customer traffic and signage.

Zoning Restrictions

Few Restrictions

Davie's Land Development Code, Sec. 12-34(N), expressly defines and allows home occupations - an occupation, business, profession, or trade (including a cottage food operation) operated in whole or part from a residential dwelling. The lot must keep its residential character, and the rules track Florida's home-based business statute (Fla. Stat. 559.955).

Code Section: Davie Code Sec. 12-34(N); cf. Fla. Stat. 559.955Allowed?: Yes - home occupations expressly permitted in residential dwellings

Signage Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie's home occupation rule (Code Sec. 12-34(N)) requires the lot to stay consistent with the residential character of the surrounding neighborhood as viewed from the street, which constrains business signage. State law (Fla. Stat. 559.955) allows local governments to apply relevant signage regulations to home-based businesses, so Davie's residential sign rules in Chapter 12 apply.

Code Section: Davie Code Sec. 12-34(N)(2)(a); Ch. 12 Art. VIII (Signs)Standard: Lot must stay consistent with residential character from the street

Home Occupation Permits

Few Restrictions

Davie does not require a discretionary home-occupation use permit; home occupations are allowed by right under Code Sec. 12-34(N) if they meet the standards. A Town of Davie business tax receipt (formerly occupational license) is required to operate, consistent with Fla. Stat. 559.955, which limits home-based businesses to applicable business taxes.

Special-use permit?: No - home occupations allowed by right under Code Sec. 12-34(N)Required: Town of Davie business tax receipt (formerly occupational license)

Cottage Food Operations

Few Restrictions

Davie's home occupation definition (Code Sec. 12-34(N)(1)) expressly includes a cottage food operation, so home-based food businesses are allowed in residential dwellings. The substantive rules - no state license/inspection and a $250,000 annual gross-sales cap - are set by Florida's cottage food law, Fla. Stat. 500.80 (administered by FDACS).

Local code: Davie Code Sec. 12-34(N)(1) - cottage food included as a home occupationState law: Fla. Stat. 500.80 (FDACS) controls operating rules

Home Daycare

Some Restrictions

Davie expressly allows family day care homes as a residential use in Code Sec. 12-34(J), capping the number of children by age group (no more than ten children total). The home must be licensed under the Broward County Family Day Care Home Licensing Ordinance, and proof of that license is required before the Town issues a business tax.

Code Section: Davie Code Sec. 12-34(J)Max children: Total may not exceed 10 children in the home

🏊 Swimming Pools & SpasFull swimming pools & spas guide →

Pool ownership comes with safety fencing requirements, permit obligations, and drainage rules that vary by jurisdiction.

Fencing Requirements

Heavy Restrictions

Davie does not set its own pool-fence height. Because the Town adopted the Florida Building Code (Code Sec. 5-1), residential pool barriers follow the state standard in FBC-R Chapter 45 (R4501.17) and the Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (Fla. Stat. Ch. 515): a barrier at least 48 inches high with no gaps or footholds.

Barrier standard: FBC-R Sec. R4501.17 (state code, adopted via Davie Code Sec. 5-1)Minimum height: At least 48 inches (4 ft) above grade on the outside (FBC-R R4501.17)

Pool Permits

Some Restrictions

The Town of Davie Building Division requires a building permit before constructing or installing any residential swimming pool, spa, or hot tub. Davie has adopted the Florida Building Code (Code Sec. 5-1), as amended by the Broward County Administrative Chapter, so pool construction, barriers, and inspections follow state-set FBC standards rather than a separate Davie pool code.

Permit required: Yes - building permit from Davie Building DivisionGoverning code: Florida Building Code (Davie Code Sec. 5-1); FBC-R Chapter 45; Fla. Stat. Ch. 515

Safety Rules

Heavy Restrictions

Davie's own pool-safety ordinance, Code Sec. 5-66, declares that swimming pools containing stagnant water are 'unsanitary and dangerous to human life' and are deemed unsafe. Beyond that, residential pool safety features (barriers, alarms, covers) are set by the state Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act, Fla. Stat. Ch. 515, which Davie references.

Local code: Davie Code Sec. 5-66 - stagnant-water pools 'deemed unsafe'State safety act: Fla. Stat. 515.27 (at least one approved safety feature)

Above-Ground Pools

Some Restrictions

An above-ground swimming pool in Davie still requires a Building Division permit and must comply with the Florida Building Code adopted in Code Sec. 5-1. The barrier requirement comes from FBC-R Chapter 45 / Fla. Stat. Ch. 515 - Davie does not set a separate above-ground pool ordinance.

Permit required: Yes - Davie Building Division building permitGoverning code: Florida Building Code (Davie Code Sec. 5-1); FBC-R R4501.17

Hot Tub Rules

Some Restrictions

A spa or hot tub in Davie requires a Building Division permit under the Florida Building Code (Code Sec. 5-1). Safety follows the state Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (Fla. Stat. Ch. 515): a spa or hot tub equipped with an approved safety cover can satisfy the barrier requirement. Davie sets no separate spa ordinance.

Permit required: Yes - Davie Building Division (incl. electrical/plumbing)Governing code: Florida Building Code (Davie Code Sec. 5-1); FBC-R R4501.17; Fla. Stat. Ch. 515

🏗️ Accessory StructuresFull accessory structures guide →

Thinking about an ADU, shed, or garage conversion? Local rules on accessory structures have changed rapidly in recent years, especially in California.

ADU Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie does not use the term 'ADU.' The closest equivalent is a 'guest cottage,' a permitted use only in the rural and estate single-family districts (RR, AG, A-1, R-1). It is the only accessory structure allowed to be designed for overnight habitation, and only where it meets all Land Development Code standards.

Davie ADU term: Guest cottage (Sec. 12-32)Permitted districts: RR, AG, A-1, R-1 only

Shed Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie's Land Development Code treats a storage shed as an 'unoccupied storage shed.' Sec. 12-88(C) caps each shed at 150 square feet of horizontal area (measured to the drip line), requires it to sit behind the rear building line, and sets minimum 5-foot side and rear yard setbacks. Sheds may not be designed for overnight habitation.

Max shed size: 150 sq ft horizontal area (Sec. 12-88(C))Measured from: Drip line

Garage Conversions

Some Restrictions

Davie's Land Development Code does not publish a dedicated 'garage conversion' section, but the rules controlling one are clear: a converted garage cannot create a separate living unit because, outside the permitted guest-cottage districts, no accessory structure may be designed for overnight habitation, and any conversion is a Florida Building Code permit project.

Separate unit allowed?: No, except guest cottage in RR/AG/A-1/R-1Controlling rule: Sec. 12-33(A)(2)(d) (no habitable accessory structures)

Carport Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie's Land Development Code has no separate dimensional 'carport' section; a carport is regulated as an accessory structure and as covered vehicle storage. It must stay subordinate to the home, one story, and a carport (with a garage) is an approved place to screen certain commercial vehicles and personal trailers from public view.

Classification: Accessory structure (Sec. 12-33(A))Height/stories: 1 story, not over principal building

Tiny Homes

Heavy Restrictions

Davie has no separate 'tiny home' ordinance. A tiny home on a foundation is treated as a single-family detached dwelling and must meet the Florida Building Code and the district's standards; a tiny home on wheels is a mobile/manufactured home, allowed only in the town's mobile-home (MH) districts, not in conventional single-family neighborhoods.

Dedicated ordinance: None (classified by type)Tiny home on foundation: Single-family dwelling, Florida Building Code

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🪧 Sign RegulationsFull sign regulations guide →

🏚️ Property MaintenanceFull property maintenance guide →

Property Blight

Some Restrictions

Davie's Code Compliance Division enforces property condition under Town Code section 9-51, which makes the owner or occupant responsible for keeping property free of rubbish, debris, trash, weeds and unsightly or unsanitary matter. Failure to comply after a certified-mail notice can result in the Town clearing the property and recording a lien.

Primary code: Town Code sec. 9-51 (waste, weeds, debris)Maintenance standard: Sec. 12-33(s): yards neat, free of refuse

Trash Bin Storage

Some Restrictions

Davie's franchised hauler, Coastal Waste & Recycling, provides residential carts. Town Code section 9-25 requires receptacles to be kept in side or rear areas, set out no more than 12 hours before collection and brought back within 8 hours after, and never left in streets, gutters or on sidewalks.

Container code: Town Code sec. 9-25Set-out window: No more than 12 hrs before collection

Vacant Lot Maintenance

Some Restrictions

Owners of vacant or unimproved lots in Davie must keep them clear of weeds, wild growth, undergrowth, rubbish and debris under Town Code section 9-51. After a certified-mail notice giving seven days, the Town can clear the lot and place a lien for the cost. Abandoned-property owners are also asked to register with the Town.

Governing section: Town Code sec. 9-51(a) & (b)Must clear: Weeds, wild growth, undergrowth, debris

Weeds & Overgrown Grass

Some Restrictions

Town Code section 9-51 requires owners and occupants of non-agricultural property to clear weeds, wild growth and undergrowth and to remove unsightly or unsanitary matter. The Town's landscape standard (section 12-33(s)) adds that yards and landscaped areas be kept neat, watered and trimmed. Enforcement is by certified-mail notice with a seven-day cure.

Weed/overgrowth code: Town Code sec. 9-51(b)Landscape standard: Sec. 12-33(s): neat, watered, trimmed

Garage Sale Rules

Few Restrictions

The Town of Davie does not publish a dedicated garage-sale permit ordinance. Occasional residential sales are allowed, but garage-sale signs fall under the Town's temporary-sign rules (section 12-238): no permit is needed, single-family lots get up to 16 sq ft of temporary signage, and no sign may be placed in a street right-of-way.

Garage-sale permit: No dedicated Town permit/ordinanceSale-sign permit: Not required (temporary sign)

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🗑️ Trash & RecyclingFull trash & recycling guide →

Pickup Rules & Schedules

Some Restrictions

Coastal Waste & Recycling collects Davie household garbage twice a week by zone: Monday/Thursday west of Flamingo Road, Tuesday/Friday between Flamingo and Pine Island roads, and Wednesday/Saturday east of Pine Island Road. Town Code section 9-22 requires garbage removal at least twice per seven-day week.

Hauler: Coastal Waste & Recycling (since 6/1/2021)Frequency: Twice per week (sec. 9-22 minimum)

Bulk Item Disposal

Some Restrictions

Single-family homes in Davie get bulk pickup once a month on a scheduled date (find it via the Town's Bulk Trash Locator); condos and multifamily are quarterly. Coastal Waste & Recycling caps a bulk pile at 15 cubic yards, tree limbs at 5 feet and 75 pounds, and bagged loose leaves at 50 pounds.

Single-family bulk: Once per month (Bulk Trash Locator)Condo/multifamily bulk: Quarterly

Bin Placement Rules

Some Restrictions

Town Code section 9-25 requires carts to be stored in side or rear areas, set out no more than 12 hours before collection and brought back within 8 hours after. Town guidance says place carts within two feet of the street and three feet from trees, cars or mailboxes, out no earlier than 7 p.m. the night before.

Placement code: Town Code sec. 9-25Set out: No more than 12 hrs before collection

Recycling Requirements

Some Restrictions

Town Code section 9-77 requires residential, commercial and other waste producers designated by Town resolution to source-separate recyclables and place them in the appropriate recycling container. Section 9-78 bans anyone but the Town's authorized collector from removing recyclables set out for collection.

Recycling code: Town Code Ch. 9 Art. V (secs. 9-76 to 9-79)Source-separation: Required where designated by resolution

Illegal Dumping

Heavy Restrictions

Town Code section 9-2 makes it unlawful to dump or scatter garbage, trash, yard waste or industrial waste on Davie roads, sidewalks, watercourses or other land, and to leave accumulations after being directed to remove them within 24 hours. Section 9-3 bars dumping on private property. Penalties under section 9-5 reach $500 per violation, each day a separate offense.

Littering/dumping code: Town Code secs. 9-2, 9-3Remove-after-notice: Within 24 hours of being directed

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📐 Building Setbacks & ZoningFull building setbacks & zoning guide →

Setback Rules

Some Restrictions

Davie's minimum yard (setback) requirements are set per zoning district in the Land Development Code, so they vary by district. Sec. 12-88 governs exceptions: on corner lots both street sides meet the front-yard setback; fences and driveways are exempt; sheds need 5 feet side/rear; pools, patios and accessory buildings need 50% of the rear setback (min 10 feet).

Base setbacks: Set per zoning district (vary)Governing section: Sec. 12-88 (yard exceptions)

Structure Height Limits

Some Restrictions

Maximum building height in Davie is set per zoning district, not by one townwide cap. The code sets specific limits for some structures: residential non-agricultural accessory buildings are limited to one story and may not exceed the principal building (Sec. 12-33(A)(2)(c)); Rural Lifestyle guardhouses max 20 feet; finials may extend 25% above fence/wall height.

Principal building height: Set per zoning district (varies)Residential accessory bldgs: 1 story, not over principal (Sec. 12-33(A)(2)(c))

Lot Coverage Limits

Some Restrictions

Davie sets maximum lot coverage and minimum lot size per zoning district, so the allowable footprint depends on the district. The code treats lot coverage as a controlled metric: Sec. 12-374 makes an increase of more than 2 percent over an approved site plan a material change requiring full review. Rural Lifestyle density is capped at 1 unit per acre.

Max lot coverage: Set per zoning district (varies)Min lot size: Per district (e.g., 3,600 sq ft ENSZD single-family)

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Overall: What to Expect in Davie

Davie has 100 ordinances on file across 18 categories. Of these, 16 are rated permissive, 73 moderate, and 11 strict. This gives you a general sense of how tightly regulated daily life is in Davie compared to other cities.

Rules can change, and enforcement varies. Always verify specific requirements with the city directly before making major decisions like building a fence, listing on Airbnb, or starting a home business.

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