Miami enforces comprehensive stormwater management under Chapter 17 of the City Code (Stormwater Utility) and Miami-Dade County Environmental Resource standards. The city operates a Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) under an NPDES permit issued by the Florida DEP.
All new development and redevelopment must comply with South Florida Water Management District (SFWMD) Environmental Resource Permit requirements for stormwater quality and quantity. Miami charges a stormwater utility fee based on impervious surface area. Projects must retain the first inch of rainfall on-site. The city's low elevation and high water table create unique challenges requiring specialized stormwater solutions including exfiltration trenches and injection wells. Construction sites must implement BMPs for erosion and sediment control under the NPDES Construction General Permit for sites disturbing one or more acres.
Illicit discharges to the storm sewer system violate Chapter 17 and carry fines up to $500 per day per violation. The city may issue stop-work orders for construction sites lacking required erosion controls. Failure to pay stormwater utility fees may result in liens on the property.
Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Miami, FL
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Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Miami-Dade County.
See how other cities in Miami-Dade County handle stormwater management.
See how Miami's stormwater management rules stack up against other locations.
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