Broward County, FL Landscaping Rules: Composting (2026)
Key Facts
- License required
- None -- composting is exempt
- Governing section
- Broward County Code § 27-216(a)(2)a
- Condition
- Must not create a nuisance
- Enforcing agency
- Public Works and Environmental Services Dept.
Summary
Broward County exempts backyard composting from its solid waste management license as long as the pile doesn't create a nuisance or violate health and environmental rules.
Unless otherwise prohibited by the Code, the following activities or facilities are exempted from the licensing requirement provided that no nuisance or any condition is created that adversely affects the environment or public health and provided that the activity or facility does not violate any provisions of the Code, or federal, state, or local government regulations: a. Backyard composting;
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Code of Ordinances: Supplement 72 | Administrative Code: Supplement 28).
Full Breakdown
Broward County's solid waste code defines backyard composting as decomposing grass clippings, leaves, or food waste generated by a homeowner or tenant of a single- or multi-family dwelling at that same unit. Section 27-216 exempts backyard composting from the county's solid waste management facility license -- the permit required for commercial composting operations -- so residents can compost at home without applying for one. The exemption holds only if the pile doesn't create a nuisance or a condition that harms the environment or public health, and doesn't otherwise violate the Code or federal and state regulations. PWESD, the Public Works and Environmental Services Department, enforces this article.
Violations & Fines
No permit is required for backyard composting, but a pile that draws pests, odors, or runoff can be cited as a nuisance or Code violation and ordered corrected or removed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a permit to compost in my backyard in Broward County?
Does this rule apply if I live in Fort Lauderdale or another Broward city?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Broward County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Broward County to another location·View the Florida landscaping rules overview
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