It is generally illegal to keep tigers as pets in the United States, including Miami. Miami-Dade County Code of Ordinances, Section 5-14, prohibits owning, importing, possessing, harboring, or transporting tigers without a county permit.
Permits are typically issued only to accredited zoos, educational institutions, or qualified facilities—not individuals keeping tigers as pets. Even with a permit, strict housing, care, and safety requirements apply.
These regulations exist for public safety and animal welfare, as tigers are large, powerful wild animals requiring specialized care.