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

North Miami regulates grading and drainage through its building and zoning codes to manage stormwater on the city's low-lying coastal terrain. New construction and significant site work require a grading and drainage plan as part of the building permit application. The plan must demonstrate that finished grades direct water away from all structures, maintain positive drainage across the site, and do not increase runoff to adjacent properties. North Miami's flat topography (average elevation approximately 6 feet above sea level) and high water table (often within 2-4 feet of the surface) present challenges for conventional drainage and frequently require engineered solutions such as swales, French drains, or retention areas. Fill placement must not obstruct natural drainage patterns or cause flooding on neighboring properties. In FEMA flood zones, fill used to elevate structures must comply with floodplain management regulations and may require compensatory storage. The South Florida Water Management District may require an Environmental Resource Permit for projects that alter surface water management systems or affect wetlands. Driveway construction and paving projects must maintain sheet flow drainage to pervious areas or incorporate drainage structures to handle runoff. Blocked drainage causing flooding of adjacent properties constitutes a code violation subject to enforcement action.