Native Plants: Miami Beach vs Miami
How do native plants rules compare between Miami Beach, FL and Miami, FL?
Miami Beach and Miami have similar restriction levels.
Miami Beach, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami Beach promotes Florida-Friendly Landscaping through Chapter 126 (Landscape Ordinance) and requires native and drought-tolerant plant species in new landscaping plans. The city's resilience strategy emphasizes salt-tolerant native vegetation suitable for the barrier island environment.
View full Miami Beach rules →Miami, FL
Miami-Dade County
Miami encourages the use of Florida-friendly native plants in residential and commercial landscaping. The city's landscape code promotes drought-tolerant and salt-tolerant species adapted to South Florida's subtropical climate and coastal conditions.
View full Miami rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Miami Beach | Miami |
|---|---|---|
| Code | Chapter 126 - Landscape Ordinance | - |
| Reference Manual | Miami-Dade County Landscape Manual | - |
| Invasive Species | Prohibited in new plantings | - |
| Fertilizer Ban | June 1 - November 1 | - |
| County Code | - | Chapter 18A, landscape ordinance |
| Invasive Ban | - | Brazilian pepper, Australian pine |
| HOA Protection | - | F.S. 373.185 protects native plants |
| Program | - | Florida-Friendly Landscaping |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Miami Beach FAQ
Does Miami Beach require native plants in landscaping?
Chapter 126 promotes native and Florida-Friendly plant species in new landscaping plans. Landscape plans for building permits must include species that comply with city standards and the Miami-Dade County Landscape Manual. Invasive exotic species are prohibited.
Can I plant any species I want in my Miami Beach yard?
While existing residential landscaping has flexibility, new development and significant renovations must comply with Chapter 126 species requirements. Invasive exotic species listed by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council are prohibited in new plantings.
When can I fertilize my lawn in Miami Beach?
Miami Beach prohibits fertilizer application from June 1 through November 1 to protect water quality during the rainy season and king tide period. Fertilizer-free zones of 20 feet apply adjacent to waterways and storm drains year-round.
Miami FAQ
Can my Miami HOA force me to use non-native plants?
No. Florida Statute 373.185 protects homeowners' right to use Florida-friendly landscaping. HOAs may not require plantings that conflict with Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles.
What native plants grow best in Miami?
Popular South Florida natives include gumbo limbo, live oak, sabal palm, sea grape, silver buttonwood, and green buttonwood. These species tolerate salt spray, drought, and hurricane winds.
Are there invasive plants I cannot plant in Miami?
Yes. Brazilian pepper, Australian pine, and melaleuca are prohibited invasive species in South Florida. They must not be planted and should be removed when found on your property.
Compare other topics
See how Miami Beach and Miami compare on other ordinance categories.
Want to add a third city?
Use our full comparison tool to compare up to three cities.
Open Comparison Tool