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Hialeah, FL Landscaping Rules: Native Plants (2026)

Few Restrictions
Compiled from the official code textEditor Martyn O'NeillLast verified September 2026

Key Facts

State Protection
FL Statute Section 373.185
HOA Restriction
Cannot prohibit native plants
Recommended Species
Sabal palm, sea grape, coontie
Rebates
SFWMD water-saving programs
Contact
(305) 556-8380 Code Compliance

Summary

Florida law (FL Statute Section 373.185) protects homeowners' right to install Florida-Friendly landscaping and prohibits HOAs and local governments from requiring traditional turf lawns. Hialeah residents can replace grass with native South Florida plants, xeriscaping, and drought-tolerant species. The South Florida Water Management District offers rebates for water-efficient landscaping.

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. [...] (3)(a) The Legislature finds that the use of Florida-friendly landscaping and other water use and pollution prevention measures to conserve or protect the state's water resources serves a compelling public interest and that the participation of homeowners' associations and local governments is essential to the state's efforts in water conservation and water quality protection and restoration. (b) A deed restriction or covenant may not prohibit or be enforced so as to prohibit any property owner from implementing Florida-friendly landscaping on his or her land or create any requirement or limitation in conflict with any provision of part II of this chapter or a water shortage order, other order, consumptive use permit, or rule adopted or issued pursuant to part II of this chapter. (c) A local government ordinance may not prohibit or be enforced so as to prohibit any property owner from implementing Florida-friendly landscaping on his or her land.

Source: FL Statute Section 373.185 — Florida-Friendly LandscapingView official code

Full Breakdown

FL Statute Section 373.185 establishes the Florida-Friendly Landscaping program and prohibits counties, municipalities, and HOAs from adopting ordinances or rules that prohibit Florida-Friendly landscaping on residential property. Native South Florida species encouraged include sabal palm, sea grape, gumbo limbo, coontie, firebush, and muhly grass. These species are adapted to the subtropical climate and require less irrigation than traditional turf. The South Florida Water Management District promotes native landscaping through educational programs and may offer rebates for converting turf to water-efficient landscaping. Hialeah's Land Development Code requires minimum landscaping for new development and may specify the inclusion of native species in buffers and common areas. Native plant landscaping helps manage stormwater on the city's flat terrain.

Violations & Fines

No penalties for choosing native plants. HOAs that prohibit Florida-Friendly landscaping violate FL Statute Section 373.185. Landscaping must still be maintained to avoid weed and property maintenance violations. Contact Code Compliance at (305) 556-8380 for maintenance standards.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace my lawn with native plants in Hialeah?
Yes. FL Statute Section 373.185 protects your right to install Florida-Friendly landscaping. Neither the city nor your HOA can require you to maintain a traditional turf lawn.
Can my HOA fine me for removing grass in Hialeah?
No. Florida law prohibits HOAs from penalizing homeowners for installing Florida-Friendly landscaping that meets the UF/IFAS guidelines, even if it replaces traditional grass.
Are there rebates for native landscaping in Hialeah?
The South Florida Water Management District periodically offers rebates and incentive programs for converting turf to water-efficient, native landscaping. Check SFWMD.gov for current programs.

Sources & Official References

Other rules in Hialeah

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