Miami Beach, FL Environmental Rules: Grading & Drainage (2026)

Under the Miami Beach Land Development Regulations and Miami-Dade County's Flood Criteria Map requirements, properties must be filled, graded, and harmonized to match existing roads fronting the property. Finished floor elevations must meet or exceed the Base Flood Elevation plus any required freeboard. Site grading must direct stormwater drainage away from neighboring properties and toward approved stormwater management systems. New development must incorporate on-site stormwater retention or detention as required by the city's Stormwater Management Master Plan. Pervious paving materials are encouraged to maximize infiltration and reduce runoff volume. The city's ongoing road-raising program has elevated roadways 1.5-2 feet in western neighborhoods, requiring adjacent properties to harmonize their grading with the new road elevations. Grading plans must be prepared by a licensed Florida professional engineer and submitted with building permit applications. Post-construction drainage inspections are required before certificate of occupancy. Properties must not create adverse drainage conditions for neighboring parcels.