Doral, FL Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)
Key Facts
- State Protection
- F.S. 373.185 Florida-Friendly Landscaping
- HOA Rights
- Cannot prohibit FL-Friendly landscapes
- Invasive Species
- FLEPPC listed plants prohibited
- Native Species Encouraged
- Live oak, gumbo limbo, sabal palm
- Code Compliance
- (305) 593-6740
Summary
Doral encourages Florida-Friendly landscaping and native plant use through its Land Development Code landscaping requirements. New development must meet minimum landscape standards that favor drought-tolerant and native species. Florida law protects homeowners' rights to install Florida-Friendly landscapes even in HOA communities.
F.S. 373.185 373.185 Local Florida-friendly landscaping ordinances. — (1) As used in this section, the term: (a) “Local government” means any county or municipality of the state.
(b) “Florida-friendly landscaping” means quality landscapes that conserve water, protect the environment, are adaptable to local conditions, and are drought tolerant. The principles of such landscaping include planting the right plant in the right place, efficient watering, appropriate fertilization, mulching, attraction of wildlife, responsible management of yard pests, recycling yard waste, reduction of stormwater runoff, and waterfront protection. Additional components include practices such as landscape planning and design, soil analysis, the appropriate use of solid waste compost, minimizing the use of irrigation, and proper maintenance.
Full Breakdown
The City of Doral's Land Development Code includes landscaping requirements that encourage the use of native and drought-tolerant plant species. New development and major renovations must meet minimum landscaping standards including tree canopy coverage, shrub plantings, and ground cover requirements. The city encourages the use of South Florida native species such as live oak, gumbo limbo, green buttonwood, silver buttonwood, sabal palm, and native understory plants adapted to the local climate. Florida Statute 373.185 (Florida-Friendly Landscaping) protects homeowners' rights to install water-efficient landscaping, and HOAs cannot prohibit Florida-Friendly landscapes that comply with the South Florida Water Management District's guidelines. The Florida-Friendly Landscaping program promotes nine principles: right plant, right place; water efficiently; fertilize appropriately; mulch; attract wildlife; manage pests responsibly; recycle yard waste; reduce stormwater runoff; and protect the waterfront. Invasive plant species listed by the Florida Exotic Pest Plant Council (FLEPPC) should not be planted and may be required to be removed during development review.
Violations & Fines
Landscaping violations are enforced by Code Compliance at (305) 593-6740. Failure to meet minimum landscaping requirements for new development may result in denial of certificates of occupancy. HOAs that prohibit Florida-Friendly landscapes may face legal challenges under F.S. 373.185.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my Doral HOA prevent me from planting native species?
What native plants work well in Doral?
Are there plants I cannot use in Doral?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Doral
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Doral to another location·View the Florida landscaping rules overview
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