Florida Statute 373.185 declares Florida-friendly landscaping a matter of state policy and prohibits any deed restriction, covenant, or local ordinance from preventing property owners from installing native, drought-tolerant plant landscapes.
FS 373.185(3) preempts cities, counties, and homeowner associations from banning Florida-friendly landscaping, defined as quality landscaping that conserves water, protects the environment, and uses appropriate native species. Local governments must allow these landscapes even if they replace turf grass. The Florida Yards and Neighborhoods program publishes the official approved plant list. Cities retain authority to require minimum maintenance standards and prohibit invasive species, but cannot mandate turf grass or prohibit conversion to native landscaping.
There are no penalties for installing Florida-friendly landscaping. HOAs or cities that try to enforce contrary covenants can be challenged under FS 373.185.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Winter Haven, FL
Most residential wood or chain-link fences in Winter Haven do not require a building permit if they stay within Sec. 21-103 height limits (typically 4 ft fro...
Winter Haven, FL
Winter Haven Minimum Property Maintenance Standards Sec. 704.2 (Ord. O-10-15) requires every dwelling unit to have a listed, approved smoke alarm installed a...
Winter Haven, FL
Backyard recreational fire pits in Winter Haven are governed by the Florida Fire Prevention Code (adopted via Code Chapter 6) and NFPA 1, which require fire ...
Winter Haven, FL
Outdoor burning of yard waste in Winter Haven is regulated by Code Chapter 6 (Fire Prevention and Protection), the Florida Fire Prevention Code, and Florida ...
Winter Haven, FL
Winter Haven Code Chapter 6 (Fire Prevention and Protection) adopts the Florida Fire Prevention Code, which incorporates Florida Statute Chapter 791 regulati...
Winter Haven, FL
Winter Haven does not currently operate a city-wide rental registration program for traditional long-term rentals. All rentals must meet the Minimum Property...
Side-by-side rule comparisons with other cities in Polk County.
See how Winter Haven's native plants rules stack up against other locations.
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