Properties near the Everglades and agricultural areas in Homestead face elevated wildfire risk during dry seasons. While South Florida is not typically designated as a Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) like western states, properties bordering undeveloped land must maintain defensible space. The Florida Forest Service monitors conditions and issues burn bans when needed.
Homestead sits at the gateway to Everglades National Park, and properties on the western and southern edges of the city border extensive wildland areas. During the dry season (November through May), sawgrass, pine rocklands, and tropical hammocks in the Everglades can fuel wildfires that threaten adjacent developed areas. The Florida Forest Service designates fire risk levels and issues burn bans during high-risk periods. While Florida does not use the same formal WUI designation system as California, properties near wildland areas should maintain defensible space by clearing dead vegetation, trimming trees away from structures, and maintaining irrigated landscaping. The Florida Building Code (HVHZ edition) includes requirements for fire-resistant construction materials in all new construction in Homestead. Hurricane shutters and impact-resistant windows, required by the HVHZ code, also provide some wildfire ember protection. Insurance companies may require additional fire mitigation measures for properties near wildland areas.
Properties creating fire hazards through overgrown vegetation face code enforcement fines starting at $100 per day. Violating Florida Forest Service burn bans carries state penalties. Contact Code Compliance at (305) 224-4800.
Homestead, 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 wildfire zones.
See how Homestead's wildfire zones rules stack up against other locations.
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