With mango season in full swing across South Florida, it can be tempting to grab fruit hanging over a fence or near a sidewalk. But the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office is reminding residents that just because it’s within reach doesn’t mean it’s free to take.
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The agency recently released a video explaining what you can — and can’t — do when it comes to picking fruit from trees on private property.
If a fruit-bearing tree is rooted on private property, the fruit belongs to the property owner, even if the branches extend beyond a fence.
The video cites Section 21-118 of the Miami-Dade County Code, which states that it is unlawful to take fruit from private property, public property or any nursery without the property owner’s permission.
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The rule also applies to fruit trees in unfenced areas, including front yards and public rights of way.
Violations may result in a $200 civil citation. More serious cases may also be subject to criminal theft laws.
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