The system of heraldry of the Brazilian non-royal nobility applies to those lineages that were not part of the Imperial Family, and includes specific coronets of rank.

Civic heraldry refers to the coat of arms borne by the government of Brazil, by its states and by its municipalities.

Also, many Brazilian municipal coats of arms include a motto in the scroll under the shield, which is rare in Portugal (although allowed).

The majority of the coats of arms of Brazilian states were adopted in the late 19th century and do not follow heraldic standards.

The same applies to the modern coat of arms of Brazil, adopted after the implementation of the republic in 1889.