Miami Beach enforces strict building height limits to preserve the Art Deco architectural character and barrier island scale. Heights vary by zoning district, with single-family zones limited to 25-35 feet. Maximum height variances greater than 3 feet are prohibited. The city's height restrictions are among the most protective in South Florida.
Miami Beach's Land Development Regulations impose building height limits that vary by zoning district, reflecting the city's commitment to preserving its Art Deco architectural heritage and barrier island character. Single-family residential zones are generally limited to 25-35 feet depending on the specific RS district. Multifamily residential zones have varying limits, and commercial/mixed-use districts along corridors like Lincoln Road and Collins Avenue have district-specific caps. Critically, any maximum building height variance greater than 3 feet is prohibited β this is one of the strictest variance limitations in Florida. Height is generally measured from the base flood elevation or crown of road, whichever is higher, to the highest point of the roof. Architectural features, mechanical equipment, and elevator overruns may be permitted above the height limit with conditions. The 2016 ordinance (2016-3987) updated lot coverage, unit size, height, setback, and courtyard requirements. Contact the Planning Department at (305) 673-7550 for district-specific height limits.
Exceeding height limits results in building permit denial. Structures built above the allowed height may be required to be reduced or demolished. Height variance requests exceeding 3 feet above the maximum are automatically denied. Unauthorized height increases are enforced through stop-work orders and code enforcement.
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Miami-Dade County.
See how other cities in Miami-Dade County handle structure height limits.
See how Miami Beach's structure height limits rules stack up against other locations.
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