Miami Gardens's Cannabis Regulations: The Rules That Matter

Every city handles cannabis regulations a little differently. In Miami Gardens, Florida, there are 2 distinct rules that residents and property owners should be aware of. Some are stricter than what neighboring cities enforce, and others are more relaxed. Here is what you need to know.

Dispensary Zoning

Medical marijuana dispensaries (MMTCs) in Miami Gardens must comply with Miami-Dade County zoning requirements under Ordinance No. 16-67 (Article IXA of the Zoning Code). Dispensaries must be at least 1 mile from any other dispensary and at least 500 feet from schools. Only one MMTC currently operates in the city.

Key details: Spacing: 1 mile from other dispensaries. School Distance: 500 feet minimum. County Ordinance: No. 16-67 (Art. IXA). Current MMTCs: 1 in Miami Gardens. Recreational: Not permitted.

Operating a dispensary without proper state and local licenses is a criminal offense. Zoning violations are enforced through the Code Enforcement process. Unlicensed facilities face immediate closure.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Miami Gardens actively enforces its dispensary zoning requirements.

Home Cultivation

Home cultivation of cannabis is prohibited in Miami Gardens and throughout Florida. Only licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs) may cultivate cannabis for medical purposes under the Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act. Recreational cannabis remains illegal in Florida as of 2025.

Key details: Home Growing: Prohibited. Recreational Use: Illegal in Florida. Medical Use: Legal with MMUR card from licensed MMTC. Cultivation Authority: Licensed MMTCs only. Governing Law: FL Statutes Ch. 893; Compassionate Medical Cannabis Act.

Home cultivation of cannabis is a felony under Florida Statutes Chapter 893. Penalties include imprisonment and fines. Even small-scale growing operations are subject to criminal prosecution.

This is not one of those rules that cities tend to ignore. Miami Gardens actively enforces its home cultivation requirements.

The Bottom Line

Miami Gardens is tougher than many cities when it comes to cannabis regulations. Out of the 2 rules covered here, 2 are rated strict. If you are a homeowner, renter, or business owner in Miami Gardens, take the time to understand these requirements before they become a problem. Most violations come with fines, and some repeat violations can escalate.

Keep in mind that Miami Gardens can amend these rules at any council meeting. For the most current version of any rule mentioned here, check the specific ordinance page, where we track updates as they happen.