Coral Gables, FL Landscaping Rules: Rainwater Harvesting (2026)

Rainwater harvesting is permitted in Coral Gables under the framework of Florida Statutes Section 373.185, which encourages Florida-Friendly Landscaping and water conservation practices. The South Florida Water Management District supports rainwater harvesting as a conservation tool. Residents may install rain barrels and cisterns on their property for landscape irrigation use. However, Coral Gables' strong emphasis on aesthetic standards means that visible rainwater collection systems may require Board of Architects review to ensure compatibility with the property's architectural character and neighborhood appearance. Systems should be located in rear or side yards where practical to minimize street visibility. Rain barrel installations connected to gutters and downspouts do not typically require building permits, but larger cistern systems with plumbing connections may require permits from Development Services at (305) 460-5235. Collected rainwater is intended for outdoor non-potable use such as landscape irrigation and should not be connected to indoor plumbing systems.