North Miami, FL Environmental Rules: Stormwater Management (2026)

North Miami regulates stormwater management as a co-permittee under Miami-Dade County's NPDES MS4 permit issued by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection. The city's stormwater system ultimately discharges to Biscayne Bay, an Outstanding Florida Water that receives heightened protection. New development and significant redevelopment projects must incorporate stormwater retention and treatment systems designed to prevent increased runoff volume and pollutant loading. Post-development runoff rates must not exceed pre-development conditions. Projects disturbing one acre or more of land require an FDEP NPDES Generic Permit for Stormwater Discharge from Large and Small Construction Activities, including preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) with erosion and sediment control BMPs. The city requires stormwater management plans as part of the site plan review process for commercial and multi-family development. Single-family residential projects may trigger stormwater requirements if they significantly increase impervious surface area. North Miami's low-lying coastal topography and high water table create particular challenges for stormwater infiltration, often requiring engineered retention systems. Illicit discharge to the storm sewer system is prohibited, including wash water, pool drainage, and chemicals.