Miami-Dade

Dogs, cats, and ferrets must be vaccinated against the rabies virus beginning at 4 months of age, and they must be revaccinated as directed by the vaccine manufacturer (typically, every 1 or 3 years). (Section 5-6)

Dogs must be licensed every year and must wear their tag at all times. (Section 5-7)

4 dogs are allowed to live on residential property that is less than one acre, 6 dogs on 1 to 2 acres, and 8 dogs on 2 acres or more. Keeping more than 8 dogs on residential property requires a Kennel license. (Sections 5-1 and 5-13)

Dogs are not permitted to roam free off your private property. They must be leashed at all times. (Section 5-20)

If you breed pets, you must have a Hobby Breeder or Kennel license. (Sections 5-1 and 5-13)

Beginning April 2009, it will be illegal to tether (or chain) your dog if you are not present. (Section 5-21)

If you sell pets, you must have a Hobby Breeder or Pet Dealer license. (Section 5-10)

If you sell pets, they must be microchipped and registered to the new owner and must be sold with an original official certificate of veterinary inspection. (Section 5-10)

To transport a pet in the back of a pick up truck, it must be in a secured carrier. See Section 5-15 for other requirements.

Dogs in heat must be confined. (Section 5-20.1)

The acquisition or keeping of Pit Bull dogs is prohibited in Miami-Dade County. (Section 5-17.6)

Depriving an animal of food, water, or adequate shelter is an act of animal cruelty. (Section 5-4)

If your dog defecates outside of your private property, it is your responsibility to remove it (section 5-20)

To view Chapter V in its entirety, please click here.

Palm Beach

To view Palm Beach Laws, please click here.