Where Can Registered Sex Offenders Live in Miami-Dade County? A Guide to Local and State Restrictions

If you or a loved one has been labeled as a sex offender in Florida, one of the most pressing questions is: Where can I live?

In Miami-Dade County, residency restrictions are some of the strictest in the nation. The rules can be confusing between local ordinances and state law, and the consequences for violating them are serious.

This article breaks down the restrictions so that you understand where registered sex offenders may legally reside in Miami-Dade County.

The Statewide Rule: Florida Statute § 775.215

Florida law prohibits certain registered sex offenders from living within 1,000 feet of a school, child-care facility, park, or playground. This law applies if the underlying conviction involved a minor under 16. The distance is measured in a straight line, not by roadways.

There are a few limited exceptions. For example, if you lawfully established your residence and later a school or daycare opened within 1,000 feet, you are generally allowed to remain. Still, for anyone moving into a new home, this buffer zone rule must be respected statewide.

Violations of this statute can result in a felony charge and potential prison time. That means even an unintentional residence choice can have severe consequences.

Miami-Dade County’s Stricter Ordinance: The 2,500-Foot Rule

In addition to the statewide 1,000-foot restriction, Miami-Dade County enacted the Lauren Book Child Safety Ordinance. Under this law, individuals convicted of certain sex offenses against victims under the age of 16 are prohibited from residing within 2,500 feet of any K-12 school.

This local restriction is far stricter than state law, more than doubling the buffer zone around schools. It is measured in a straight line from the school's property boundary to the residence's property boundary. Importantly, it applies to both public and private schools.

Violating this county ordinance is a criminal offense, punishable by up to 364 days in jail and a $1,000 fine. Landlords are also prohibited from renting to individuals who are barred from residing in those restricted areas.

How These Laws Work Together

Because both state and county laws apply, sex offenders in Miami-Dade must comply with both sets of restrictions. In practical terms, that means:

• You must live at least 2,500 feet away from schools, and

• You must live at least 1,000 feet away from schools, child-care facilities, parks, and playgrounds.

These overlapping restrictions make finding compliant housing extremely difficult. In fact, Miami-Dade has seen homeless encampments form in areas that technically fall outside of the restricted zones because many individuals cannot secure lawful housing elsewhere.

Are There Any Exceptions?

There are a few situations where exceptions may apply:

• Grandfathering: If you lived in your home before the ordinance took effect, or if a school opened after you lived there.

• Juvenile cases: Some individuals convicted as minors may not be subject to the ordinance.

• Probation or parole: Court-ordered restrictions can be stricter than either state or local law. Always check your supervision conditions.

Still, these exceptions are narrow, and the strict buffers will bind most offenders.

Tools to Check an Address

Miami-Dade County provides a 2,500-foot Address Compliance Map, which can help determine whether a property complies with county rules. However, using this map does not substitute for legal advice. Misinterpretations of the law or changes in zoning can still put you at risk.

Final Thoughts

Residency restrictions for sex offenders in Miami-Dade County are complex and unforgiving. Between the state’s 1,000-foot rule and the county’s 2,500-foot school buffer, options for housing are severely limited. Mistakes can result in new criminal charges, jail time, or probation violations.

If you face these challenges, it is critical to consult a knowledgeable criminal defense attorney who understands Florida law and Miami-Dade County ordinances. At Albert Quirantes, Esq. Criminal DUI & Ticket Lawyers, we provide guidance to help clients navigate these restrictions, protect their rights, and avoid new legal trouble.

Arrested for a sexually related charge? Arrested for living in the wrong place?

Text or call our office today at (305) 644-1800 for a free, confidential defense strategy session. We’ll help you understand your legal options and ensure you stay compliant with the law.