Cape Coral enforces rigorous stormwater management under its Code of Ordinances and the South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) requirements. With over 400 miles of canals forming the largest navigable canal system in the world, stormwater management is critical to protecting water quality and preventing flooding.
All new development must meet stormwater treatment and attenuation standards. Environmental Resource Permits (ERPs) from SFWMD are required for projects affecting wetlands or waterways. The city operates a stormwater utility that funds drainage improvements and canal maintenance. Cape Coral's extensive canal network drains to the Caloosahatchee River and Charlotte Harbor, making nutrient loading a major concern. Low Impact Development practices and retention systems are encouraged to reduce runoff pollution.
Violations carry fines up to $500 per day. Illicit discharges to the canal system may trigger state FDEP penalties. Stop-work orders may be issued for non-compliant construction sites. Repeat violations face escalating penalties and potential lien placement.
Cape Coral, FL
Cape Coral §12-22 (Noise Control Ordinance, amended Dec 2019) prohibits noise plainly audible at 50 feet between 11 PM and 7 AM from any radio, TV, musical i...
Cape Coral, FL
Cape Coral Land Development Code Section 5.2.7 limits residential fences in the front setback, allows up to 6 feet in side and rear yards, and requires open ...
Cape Coral, FL
Dogs in Cape Coral must be under direct control on a leash not exceeding 8 feet in length under Lee County Animal Control Ordinance. Cape Coral Code Chapter ...
Cape Coral, FL
Cape Coral generally allows lawn ornaments, statues, flamingos, garden gnomes, and similar decorative items without a permit. Cape Coral Code Section 5.5.13 ...
Cape Coral, FL
Inflatable holiday displays (giant snowmen, Halloween figures, Easter bunnies) are not specifically regulated by Cape Coral's Code of Ordinances and are gene...
Cape Coral, FL
Cape Coral does not have a dedicated holiday-light ordinance and treats seasonal lighting as a normal residential accessory use, generally allowed without a ...
See how Cape Coral's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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