Miami-Dade Chapter 21 bans aggressive solicitation, including blocking pedestrians, touching strangers, soliciting near ATMs, and approaching occupied vehicles in traffic. Passive panhandling remains protected speech under Florida and federal case law.
Miami-Dade Code Chapter 21 prohibits aggressive solicitation: physical touching, persistent requests after refusal, profane language, blocking sidewalks, or following someone for solicitation. Panhandling within 15 feet of an ATM, bank entrance, bus stop, or outdoor cafe seating is also banned. Florida Statute 316.2045 forbids soliciting from occupants of cars stopped in traffic on state roads. Federal courts have held that simple, non-aggressive panhandling is protected First Amendment speech, so deputies focus on conduct rather than the act of asking itself. Repeat violators may be issued trespass warnings.
Second-degree misdemeanor under Chapter 21: up to 60 days jail and $500 fine. Roadway solicitation under FL §316.2045 is a non-criminal traffic infraction with fines.
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See how Miami-Dade County's aggressive panhandling rules stack up against other locations.
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