Native Plants: Ocoee vs Orlando
How do native plants rules compare between Ocoee, FL and Orlando, FL?
Ocoee and Orlando have similar restriction levels.
Ocoee, FL
Orange County
Ocoee homeowners may install Florida-Friendly Landscaping using native and drought-tolerant plants. FL §373.185 preempts any local rule, HOA covenant, or deed restriction that prohibits FL-Friendly yards. The program is promoted by UF/IFAS Extension.
View full Ocoee rules →Orlando, FL
Orange County
Florida actively protects homeowners right to install native and drought-tolerant landscaping. FS 720.3075 prohibits HOAs from banning Florida-friendly landscaping. Florida SB 544 (2023) further strengthened these protections by clarifying that HOAs cannot prohibit replacement of turf grass with low-water alternatives. Orlando encourages native plants through SJRWMD and Orange County Extension programs and incorporates them in city landscaping standards.
View full Orlando rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Ocoee | Orlando |
|---|---|---|
| State Protection | FL §373.185 | - |
| Program | UF/IFAS FFL | - |
| Principle | Right Plant Right Place | - |
| HOA | Cannot ban FFL | - |
| Extension | Orange County UF/IFAS | - |
| HOA Preemption | - | FS 720.3075 - cannot ban Florida-friendly landscaping |
| 2023 Update | - | SB 544 strengthens turf replacement rights |
| Definition | - | FS 373.185 - Nine Florida-Friendly Principles |
| Local Program | - | Orlando Green Works native plant resources |
| Maintenance Required | - | Must comply with city nuisance codes |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Ocoee FAQ
Can my HOA force me to remove native plants?
No. FL §373.185 protects Florida-Friendly Landscaping from HOA prohibitions, though reasonable design review is allowed.
Who enforces this in Ocoee?
Ocoee code enforcement at (407) 905-3100 handles complaints.
Orlando FAQ
Can my HOA force me to keep St. Augustine grass?
No. Under FS 720.3075 and SB 544, HOAs cannot prohibit replacement of turf with Florida-friendly alternatives like wildflower meadows, native ground covers, or expanded planting beds, as long as your design meets the Nine Principles.
Do I need city approval to convert my lawn to natives?
Generally no for single-family residential. The city encourages native conversion. Submit a landscape plan if you are removing significant trees or converting front yards in historic districts that have specific design guidelines.
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