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North Miami regulates noise from commercial and industrial operations under its noise control ordinance. Industrial and commercial activities must not produce noise that unreasonably disturbs residents, with stricter limits during nighttime hours. The city uses both subjective disturbance standards and zoning buffer requirements.
North Miami does not have its own airport or specific aircraft noise ordinance. Aircraft noise is primarily regulated at the federal level by the FAA. North Miami is located between Miami-Opa Locka Executive Airport to the west and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to the north, and residents may experience flyover noise from these facilities.
North Miami regulates noise under Chapter 12 (Nuisances) of its Code of Ordinances, as amended by Ordinance 1414 (2017). The ordinance prohibits unreasonable, excessive, or unnecessary noise that disturbs the peace and quiet of any neighborhood. Short-term rental properties have specific quiet hours from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM when excessive noise is prohibited.
North Miami requires building permits for retaining walls that exceed certain height thresholds. Retaining walls must be engineered to withstand applicable loads, comply with HVHZ standards, and meet setback requirements. Walls in flood zones have additional requirements for water flow and drainage.
North Miami enforces strict pool barrier requirements under the Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (F.S. 515) and the Florida Building Code HVHZ provisions. All residential pools must have at least one approved safety feature, with barriers being the most common compliance method. Barriers must be at least 48 inches high with self-closing, self-latching gates.
North Miami requires building permits for wood and concrete fences under Chapter 5 (Building Standards and Regulations). Chain-link fences used as swimming pool safety barriers on residential properties also require permits. All fence installations must comply with Chapter 29 zoning setback and height requirements as well as the Florida Building Code's HVHZ provisions.
North Miami regulates fence heights through Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations). Front yard fences are generally limited to 4 feet in height, while side and rear yard fences may reach 6 feet. Fences in front of the building line have additional restrictions, and chain-link fencing may be prohibited in front yards. Corner lot visibility triangle requirements limit fence heights near intersections to maintain driver sight lines.
North Miami regulates fence materials through Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations) and Chapter 5 (Building Standards). Chain-link fencing is restricted or prohibited in front yards in many zoning districts. All fence materials must meet HVHZ wind resistance standards. Fences must be maintained free of rust, rot, mold, and visible damage under property maintenance requirements.
Florida has no shared fence cost statute. FL §823.11 prohibits spite fences. Each property owner responsible for their own fence.
North Miami regulates short-term rental occupancy as part of its vacation rental provisions. Occupancy is generally limited based on the number of bedrooms and must comply with the Florida Building Code and fire safety requirements. Florida state law preempts cities from banning vacation rentals registered before July 1, 2011.
Short-term rental operators in North Miami should carry adequate liability insurance as required by the Florida Vacation Rental Act and standard industry practice. While North Miami does not specify a local insurance minimum, DBPR licensing and prudent hosting require comprehensive coverage.
North Miami's parking regulations under Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations) apply to all residential properties including rentals. Vehicles may not be parked on the front lawn, a maximum of two vehicles may park in the public right-of-way parallel to traffic, and commercial vehicles are prohibited in residential areas. These rules apply to short-term rental guests as well as permanent residents.
North Miami imposes strict limitations on short-term rentals under Chapters 5 and 29. Rental advertisements for periods less than 3 months are prohibited, and rentals of 3 months or less (or renting more than 4 times in 12 months) are banned. Operators must hold a Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt. Florida imposes a 6% transient rental tax plus Miami-Dade County's 6% Tourist Development Tax on qualifying rentals of 6 months or less.
North Miami treats rentals of less than 3 months as prohibited and bars any property from being rented or leased more than 4 times in a 12-month period. Advertising for sub-3-month stays is itself prohibited. Operators that do qualify must hold a Florida DBPR vacation rental license under F.S. 509.241 and a Miami-Dade County Local Business Tax Receipt.
North Miami effectively imposes a hard floor (not a cap) on short-term stays: any rental of 3 months or less is prohibited, and a property may not be rented or leased more than 4 times in any 12-month period. Florida Statute 509.032(7)(b) prevents the city from enacting newer ordinances that regulate rental duration or frequency, but North Miami's existing zoning-based prohibition remains enforced.
North Miami requires STR registration per Florida Statute §509.032. Operators must obtain a DBPR license and local business tax receipt. Biscayne Bay waterfront properties drive tourism rental demand.
North Miami STRs must comply with general noise ordinance. Cities can regulate STR noise even though they cannot ban rentals. Complaints can trigger registration review.
Miami-Dade does not impose a countywide primary-residence requirement on short-term rentals, but Florida statute §509.032 and Ord. 14-77 limit the county's ability to ban non-owner-occupied rentals where zoning otherwise permits transient use.
Miami-Dade Ordinance 14-77 does not require host presence during short-term rental stays in unincorporated areas, but absentee whole-home rentals in single-family residential zones are sharply restricted by zoning compatibility rules.
Under Miami-Dade Chapter 8CC, repeat short-term-rental violations trigger escalating civil fines and potential revocation of the property's STR registration, with each subsequent offense carrying multiplied penalties up to several thousand dollars per occurrence.
Florida HB 1011 (2024) and Miami-Dade Ordinance 14-77 require Airbnb, Vrbo, and similar platforms to verify host registration numbers, collect and remit taxes where contracted, and remove listings the county identifies as unlicensed or revoked.
North Miami follows Florida state law regarding electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Florida encourages EV adoption and preempts local governments from prohibiting EV charging stations in residential areas. HOAs cannot prohibit EV charging equipment installation by unit owners under F.S. 718.113 and F.S. 720.3075.
North Miami permits a maximum of two vehicles per property in the public right-of-way, parked parallel to the direction of traffic. Vehicles may not obstruct sidewalks, and property owners are responsible for sodding damage caused by vehicles parked in the swale. Florida Statute 316.1945 governs parking on highways and state roads within the city.
North Miami's Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations) strictly prohibits parking on the front lawn of any residential property. Vehicles must be parked on paved driveways or in garages. Property owners are liable for damage to sodding caused by parking, and vehicles may not obstruct sidewalks. Commercial vehicles including trucks, tow trucks, and buses are banned from residential areas.
North Miami strictly enforces abandoned and inoperable vehicle regulations under its Code of Ordinances and Florida Statute 715.07. Vehicles that are inoperable, unregistered, or left on public or private property for extended periods are subject to tagging, towing, and disposal at the owner's expense.
North Miami regulates overnight street parking in residential areas. Certain streets and zones may restrict or prohibit overnight parking, and vehicles must not obstruct traffic or violate posted signage. Commercial vehicles have additional overnight parking restrictions in residential neighborhoods.
RVs, boats, and trailers must be stored behind the front building line and screened from public view. Miami-Dade County commercial vehicle storage rules also apply within city limits.
Commercial vehicle parking in residential areas follows Miami-Dade County rules. No more than two Category 1 vehicles and one Category 2 vehicle per residence, with screening requirements.
Florida law (F.S. 373.228) explicitly authorizes rainwater harvesting and preempts local governments from prohibiting the practice. North Miami residents may collect and use rainwater for outdoor irrigation and other non-potable uses without a permit. Rain barrel programs are encouraged as part of the city's stormwater management and water conservation efforts.
North Miami permits residential composting of yard waste and organic kitchen scraps. Compost bins must be maintained to prevent odors, pest attraction, and nuisance conditions. Miami-Dade County solid waste regulations complement local rules on organic waste management.
North Miami does not prohibit artificial turf installation on residential properties. Florida law protects homeowners' rights to use Florida-Friendly Landscaping alternatives. Artificial turf installations should comply with general property maintenance standards and may require consideration of drainage and stormwater management given North Miami's flood zone location.
North Miami requires all property owners to maintain their lawns mowed to an aesthetically pleasing height not exceeding 8 inches under Chapter 12 (Nuisances). This requirement extends to public right-of-way areas including swales and alleyways adjacent to the property. Properties must also be free of trash, litter, and debris.
North Miami encourages Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles and native plant use. Florida law (F.S. 373.185) prohibits local governments and HOAs from banning Florida-Friendly Landscaping practices. The city promotes native and drought-tolerant plant species as part of its water conservation and Biscayne Bay protection efforts.
North Miami has a comprehensive tree protection ordinance requiring permits for the removal of protected trees. Trees with a trunk diameter of 3 inches or more at 4.5 feet above grade are protected and cannot be removed without a permit. Specimen and heritage trees receive additional protections, and mitigation (replanting or payment) is required for approved removals.
North Miami's Chapter 12 (Nuisances) requires properties to be maintained free of weeds, overgrowth, and debris. Vegetation exceeding 8 inches is considered a nuisance. Chapter 5 (Building Standards) further requires all properties and structures to be maintained in good condition. Tree removal or damage requires a permit from Community Planning & Development.
North Miami requires permits for tree removal. Mangrove trimming along Biscayne Bay regulated by state FDEP. Hurricane pruning encouraged before storm season. Invasive species removal actively supported by the city.
North Miami follows water management district restrictions. Watering days and times designated. FL §373.185 protects Florida-Friendly Landscaping rights.
Home daycare operations in North Miami are regulated by both Florida DCF licensing requirements and local zoning. Florida law distinguishes between family day care homes (up to 10 children) and large family child care homes (up to 12 children). A city business tax receipt and compliance with zoning, fire safety, and building codes are required.
Florida's Cottage Food Law (F.S. 500.80) allows North Miami residents to produce and sell certain non-potentially hazardous foods from their home kitchens without a food facility license. Annual sales are capped at $250,000, and products must be labeled as produced in a home kitchen not inspected by the state.
Home occupations in North Miami must not generate customer traffic beyond what is typical for a residential neighborhood under Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations). The business must remain incidental and secondary to the residential use of the property. Businesses that regularly attract customers, clients, or deliveries to the home may not qualify as permitted home occupations.
North Miami prohibits exterior signage for home-based businesses operating under home occupation provisions. Home occupations must not alter the residential character of the dwelling or neighborhood. Commercial signage in residential zones is regulated under Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations), and unauthorized signs are subject to Code Compliance enforcement.
Home-based businesses in North Miami must comply with Chapter 11 (Licenses and Business Regulations) and Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations) zoning provisions. All businesses require a Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt before commencing operations. Home occupations must be clearly incidental and secondary to the residential use of the property and cannot alter the residential character of the dwelling.
North Miami addresses animal hoarding through its animal control ordinances, nuisance provisions, and Miami-Dade County animal regulations. There is no specific pet number limit codified, but the accumulation of animals creating unsanitary conditions, neglect, or neighborhood disturbance constitutes a code violation enforceable through the Special Master process.
Beekeeping in North Miami is governed by Florida Statute 586, which preempts local governments from prohibiting beekeeping. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS) regulates all apiary activities statewide. Beekeepers on non-agricultural properties must follow Best Management Requirements (BMR) for Maintaining European Honey Bee Colonies and execute a Beekeeper Compliance Agreement with FDACS.
North Miami may allow backyard chickens with limits. Roosters typically banned in residential areas. Livestock requires agricultural zoning. FL right-to-farm law protects ag uses.
North Miami prohibits the intentional feeding of wildlife that creates nuisance conditions. This includes feeding of raccoons, iguanas, feral cats (except through TNR programs), and waterbirds in public areas. The city's proximity to Biscayne Bay and Oleta River State Park makes wildlife interaction management particularly important.
North Miami follows the countywide pit bull ban repeal (October 2023). FL section 767.14 preempts breed-specific legislation statewide. Behavior-based dangerous dog standards now apply uniformly throughout the city.
North Miami follows Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) regulations on exotic pet ownership. Florida requires permits for Class I (wildlife posing significant danger), Class II (potentially dangerous), and Class III (low-risk) wildlife. Many exotic species are banned from private ownership, and conditional species require special permits.
North Miami requires dogs on leash in public. Off-leash in designated parks only. Rabies vaccination required statewide under FL §828.30. License per city.
Miami-Dade County Code Chapter 5 requires that all dogs and cats adopted from Animal Services be sterilized before release, and unsterilized pets must carry an annual unaltered-animal license through the Animal Services Department.
Miami-Dade County requires dogs and cats to be microchipped as part of pet licensing under Chapter 5, and Animal Services uses chips to return strays to owners and reduce shelter intake countywide.
Miami-Dade County Chapter 5 restricts retail pet stores from selling dogs and cats sourced from commercial breeders, steering buyers toward shelters, rescues, and humane sources to curb puppy-mill supply chains.
Miami-Dade County Code Chapter 5 caps the number of dogs and cats that may be kept at a residence in unincorporated areas, with stricter limits for multifamily dwellings and a hobby-kennel permit option for owners exceeding the threshold.
Miami-Dade County licenses owned cats under Chapter 5 and operates a Trap-Neuter-Vaccinate-Return community-cat program for outdoor colonies, balancing humane management with public-health rabies vaccination requirements.
Miami-Dade County protects native and migratory birds through the federal Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Florida nongame rules, with extra county safeguards for nesting wading birds, burrowing owls, and shoreline rookeries.
Miami-Dade County does not run a coyote trapping program; under Florida wildlife rules, residents are encouraged to haze coyotes, secure pets and trash, and report aggressive animals to Animal Services and FWC.
Above-ground pools in North Miami require building permits and must comply with the Florida Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act (F.S. 515), barrier requirements, HVHZ wind load standards, and electrical code. Pools must meet the same safety barrier requirements as in-ground pools.
Hot tubs and spas in North Miami must comply with Florida Building Code Chapter 45 barrier requirements when containing water deeper than 24 inches. A lockable ASTM F1346-compliant safety cover may substitute for a full barrier enclosure. Electrical installation requires a separate permit with GFCI protection. Spa water may not be discharged into the municipal stormwater system.
Swimming pool safety in North Miami is governed by the Florida Building Code, Florida Statute 515 (Residential Swimming Pool Safety Act), and Miami-Dade County regulations. Requirements include safety barriers, suction entrapment prevention, and proper maintenance. Pool owners bear responsibility for maintaining safety equipment and preventing unauthorized access, particularly by children under age 5.
Swimming pool construction in North Miami requires a building permit under Chapter 5 (Building Standards and Regulations). All pools must comply with the Florida Building Code's HVHZ provisions and Miami-Dade County's pool barrier requirements. No final inspection is granted without an approved safety barrier. Permits are processed through the Community Planning & Development Department.
All swimming pools in North Miami must have a permanent safety barrier at least 48 inches (4 feet) high under the Florida Building Code and Miami-Dade County Section 33-12. The barrier must completely enclose the pool area and have self-closing, self-latching gates. No pool receives final inspection without a compliant barrier. These requirements protect against unauthorized access, particularly by children.
Tiny homes in North Miami must comply with the Florida Building Code and local zoning standards under Code Chapter 24. Tiny homes on wheels are classified as recreational vehicles and cannot be used as permanent dwellings. Site-built tiny homes on permanent foundations must meet minimum dwelling unit standards including minimum room sizes, plumbing, and electrical requirements.
Carports in North Miami require a building permit and must comply with zoning setback requirements under Code Chapter 24. Structures must meet Florida Building Code wind load requirements for the High-Velocity Hurricane Zone. Carports are considered accessory structures and must be architecturally compatible with the principal building.
North Miami requires building permits for sheds and accessory storage structures under its Land Development Regulations and Miami-Dade County requirements. All structures must meet HVHZ wind load standards and comply with zoning setbacks for the applicable residential district.
As an incorporated municipality, North Miami sets its own ADU regulations through Chapter 29 (Land Development Regulations), independent of Miami-Dade County's ADU ordinance which applies only to unincorporated areas. ADU construction requires a building permit, must comply with HVHZ standards, and must conform to the property's zoning district requirements for setbacks, lot coverage, and building height.
North Miami regulates garage conversions through its zoning and building codes. Converting a garage to living space requires maintaining the minimum off-street parking required for the zoning district, obtaining building permits, and meeting all habitability standards including HVHZ structural requirements.
Outdoor open burning is heavily restricted in North Miami and throughout Miami-Dade County. The Florida Forest Service and Miami-Dade Fire Rescue regulate all open burning through a permit system. Recreational fires (campfires, fire pits) in residential areas are subject to local fire department rules and must not create a nuisance. Agricultural burning requires a separate Florida Forest Service authorization.
Fireworks that propel through the air, detonate, or explode are illegal to sell or purchase in Miami-Dade County. Under Florida Statute 791, consumer fireworks may only be used on three designated dates: July 4th, New Year's Eve (December 31st), and New Year's Day (January 1st). The North Miami Fire Department enforces fire safety provisions within city limits.
North Miami is not located in a designated wildfire hazard zone. As an urban coastal city along Biscayne Bay, North Miami faces minimal wildfire risk. The primary fire-related concerns are structural fires, hurricane-related fire hazards, and compliance with the HVHZ provisions of the Florida Fire Prevention Code.
North Miami requires property owners to maintain their lots free of overgrown vegetation, debris, and fire hazards under Chapter 12 (Nuisances) and Chapter 5 (Building Standards). Grass must not exceed 8 inches in height, and properties must be free of trash, litter, and debris that could pose fire or safety hazards. The subtropical climate and proximity to Oleta River State Park make vegetation management important for fire prevention.
North Miami enforces the Florida Building Code, Residential (FBC-R) Section R314 and the Florida Fire Prevention Code (NFPA 72) for smoke alarms. New and substantially renovated dwellings require interconnected, hard-wired alarms with battery backup in every sleeping room, outside each sleeping area, and on every story. F.S. 553.883 requires 10-year sealed-battery alarms when only battery-powered alarms are used.
Recreational fire pits are allowed in North Miami if the fuel area is under 3 feet in diameter. Fire pits must be contained, attended, and located safely away from structures and vegetation.
Miami-Dade Fire Rescue enforces NFPA 58 and the Florida Fire Prevention Code on propane tank storage, capping the amount of liquefied petroleum gas residents may keep on a single-family lot and regulating tank placement near buildings.
North Miami provides single-stream curbside recycling collected once weekly. Accepted materials include paper, cardboard, plastic containers #1-7, glass bottles, and aluminum/steel cans. Items must be clean and loose in the bin — no plastic bags. The city provides 96-gallon recycling carts at no charge.
North Miami requires waste containers to be placed at the curb or swale by 7:00 AM on collection day and retrieved within 12 hours after collection. Containers must not obstruct sidewalks or block the right-of-way. Storage between collection days must be behind the front building line, out of public view.
North Miami provides twice-weekly garbage collection and once-weekly recycling for residential properties. Waste must be placed in city-approved containers not exceeding 50 pounds. Collection begins at 7:00 AM on scheduled days. The city contracts solid waste services for single-family and multi-family residences.
North Miami provides bulk item pickup for large household items on a scheduled basis. Residents must call Public Works to schedule pickup of furniture, appliances, and other oversized items. Construction debris requires separate hauling arrangements. Hazardous waste must go through Miami-Dade County programs.
North Miami enforces building setbacks based on zoning district classification. Typical single-family residential setbacks include 25-foot front, 7.5-foot side, and 10-foot rear minimums. Setback requirements vary by zoning district and are enforced through the building permit process. Variances require Board of Adjustment approval.
North Miami limits building height based on zoning district. Single-family residential zones are typically limited to 35 feet or 2 stories. Multi-family and commercial zones allow greater heights depending on the district. Height is measured from average finished grade to the highest point of the roof.
North Miami limits the percentage of a lot that can be covered by buildings and impervious surfaces based on zoning district. Single-family residential zones typically allow 35-40% building coverage. Impervious surface limits help manage stormwater in this flood-prone area. Variances require Board of Adjustment approval.
North Miami requires rental property owners to obtain a Business Tax Receipt and register rental units with the city. Rental properties are subject to code compliance inspections. Florida preempts local rent control under Statute 166.043, but the city regulates registration, maintenance standards, and occupancy limits.
North Miami does not have a local just-cause eviction ordinance. Eviction procedures follow Florida Statute 83 Part II (Florida Residential Landlord and Tenant Act), which allows landlords to terminate tenancies for cause or without cause by providing proper notice. Month-to-month tenancies may be terminated with 15 days' notice without stating a reason.
Rent control is preempted in North Miami by Florida Statute 125.0103, which prohibits local governments from imposing rent control or price controls on private residential property. Landlords may set and increase rents without municipal limitation. The only exception requires a housing emergency declaration approved by voter referendum, which North Miami has not enacted.
Miami-Dade landlords must follow Florida Statute §83.49, which requires written notice of how the deposit is held, return within 15 days if no claim is made, and a 30-day claim notice if deductions apply. The county adds no extra rules.
Miami-Dade does not require landlord-funded relocation assistance for ordinary lease terminations, but tenants displaced by code condemnation, demolition, or government acquisition may receive Uniform Relocation Act benefits or county housing assistance through Public Housing and Community Development.
Florida permits no-fault evictions at the end of a lease term or with proper notice for month-to-month tenancies. Miami-Dade has not enacted just-cause eviction protections, and Florida §125.0103 limits county authority to constrain landlord termination rights.
Miami-Dade Chapter 11A bars landlords from refusing to rent based on the tenant's lawful source of income, including Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers, Social Security, veterans benefits, and other government assistance. Enforcement runs through the Commission on Human Rights.
Florida §83.67 prohibits landlord retaliation, lockouts, utility shutoffs, and removal of tenant property. Miami-Dade has no separate tenant-anti-harassment ordinance, but the county human rights ordinance Ch. 11A protects against discriminatory housing harassment.
Miami-Dade Public Housing and Community Development administers approximately 19,000 Housing Choice Vouchers. Chapter 11A protects voucher holders from landlord discrimination, and PHCD pays the housing assistance payment directly to landlords each month.
Miami-Dade enforced state and federal COVID-19 eviction moratoria from March 2020 through August 2021. The CDC moratorium was struck down by the Supreme Court, and Florida ended its emergency protections. No local moratorium currently exists in the county.
Commercial drone operations in North Miami require FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot certification and LAANC authorization for the controlled airspace near Opa-locka Executive Airport. The city may require additional permits for commercial filming. All operators must carry liability insurance.
Recreational drone flights in North Miami are heavily restricted by proximity to Opa-locka Executive Airport and Miami-Opa locka Executive Airport controlled airspace. FAA LAANC authorization is required for most of the city. Florida preempts most local drone regulation, but the city restricts drone use in parks including areas near Oleta River State Park.
North Miami regulates where food trucks may operate through zoning and right-of-way restrictions. Food trucks are generally permitted on private commercial property with owner authorization. Operations in the public right-of-way and near schools face restrictions. The city hosts periodic food truck events at designated locations.
Food trucks operating in North Miami must hold a valid Florida DBPR mobile food dispensing vehicle license and Miami-Dade County health permit. Since 2020, Florida law preempts cities from requiring a separate local business license for food trucks. The city regulates locations, hours, and operational standards through its code of ordinances.
North Miami city parks are closed from sunset to sunrise unless otherwise posted or authorized for special events. Oleta River State Park, managed by the Florida DEP, has its own hours (8:00 AM to sunset). Violators are subject to trespassing charges. The Police Department enforces park curfews.
North Miami enforces a juvenile curfew for minors under 17. Nighttime curfew hours typically run 11 PM to 6 AM on school nights with later weekend hours.
North Miami allows residents to hold garage sales (yard sales) on residential properties without a permit, subject to frequency and time limitations. Sales must be conducted on the resident's own property. Signage is limited and must be removed after the sale. No Business Tax Receipt is required for occasional residential garage sales.
North Miami limits the number of garage sales a household may hold to prevent properties from operating as ongoing retail establishments. Typical limits allow 2-4 sales per year per residence. Sales exceeding frequency limits are treated as commercial activity requiring a Business Tax Receipt.
North Miami garage sales must be conducted during reasonable daytime hours, typically between 8:00 AM and 6:00 PM or sunset, whichever is earlier. Sales may not create noise disturbances outside these hours. Weekend sales are most common. Each sale may last up to 2-3 consecutive days.
Home cultivation of cannabis is illegal in Florida regardless of medical marijuana patient status. Florida's medical marijuana program under Amendment 2 and Florida Statute 381.986 authorizes only licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs) to cultivate cannabis. Growing cannabis plants at home may result in felony drug charges under Florida Statute 893.
Medical Marijuana Treatment Center dispensaries in North Miami must comply with both Florida OMMU regulations and local zoning requirements. Florida Statute 381.986 limits dispensary locations to areas that comply with local zoning and requires a 500-foot buffer from schools. North Miami's zoning code may impose additional location restrictions in its commercial and mixed-use districts.
Florida preempts most local cannabis regulation under FL §381.986. Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers must locate at least 500 feet from public or private elementary, middle, or secondary schools. Miami-Dade applies pharmacy zoning to dispensaries since the state bars stricter local rules.
Florida MMTCs may deliver medical marijuana directly to qualified patients and caregivers anywhere in the state under FL §381.986 and OMMU rules. Miami-Dade cannot prohibit deliveries. Patients must hold a valid Medical Marijuana Use Registry ID; deliveries are tracked end-to-end by the state.
Florida bans home cultivation of cannabis for any purpose. Even registered medical marijuana patients cannot grow plants at home under FL §381.986. Cultivation is a felony under FL §893.13 with sentence enhancements for proximity to schools. Miami-Dade cannot legalize home grows.
Miami-Dade treats Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers as pharmacies under FL §381.986 pharmacy parity. Retail dispensing is allowed in commercial and business zones where pharmacies operate. Cultivation and processing are allowed in industrial and agricultural districts subject to standard zoning.
Political signs in North Miami are protected under Florida Statute 106.1435, which prohibits municipalities from regulating the size, number, duration, or placement of political signs on private property beyond certain limited restrictions. Signs on public property and rights-of-way remain prohibited. Local sign codes may regulate structural safety but cannot impose content-based restrictions on political speech.
Garage sale signs in North Miami are regulated under the city's sign code in the Code of Ordinances. Temporary signs for yard sales are generally permitted on the property where the sale occurs but are prohibited on public rights-of-way, utility poles, and traffic signs. Signs must be removed promptly after the sale ends.
Seasonal and holiday displays on residential properties in North Miami are generally permitted without a permit as temporary decorations. Displays must not create fire hazards, obstruct traffic visibility, or cause electrical safety issues. Decorations should be removed within a reasonable time after the holiday season ends. Inflatable and illuminated displays must comply with electrical code requirements.
North Miami participates in the National Flood Insurance Program and enforces FEMA flood zone regulations through its floodplain management ordinance. Significant portions of the city are in FEMA flood zones AE and VE due to proximity to Biscayne Bay. New construction and substantial improvements must elevate the lowest floor at least one foot above the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). The city participates in the NFIP Community Rating System for flood insurance discounts.
North Miami requires erosion and sediment control measures on all construction sites to prevent sediment discharge to the municipal stormwater system and Biscayne Bay. Projects disturbing one acre or more must implement a SWPPP under the FDEP NPDES construction permit. Silt fences, inlet protection, and stabilization measures must be maintained throughout construction.
North Miami's coastal areas along Biscayne Bay are subject to the city's Coastal High Hazard Area regulations, FEMA flood zone requirements, and the Florida Coastal Construction Control Line (CCCL) program. Development seaward of the CCCL requires FDEP permitting. The city's Comprehensive Plan includes a Coastal Management Element that restricts density increases in the Coastal High Hazard Area.
North Miami requires grading and drainage plans for new development and significant site modifications to ensure proper stormwater flow and prevent flooding of adjacent properties. All grading must direct water away from structures and maintain positive drainage without adversely impacting neighboring properties. The city's flat topography and high water table require engineered drainage solutions for most projects.
North Miami enforces stormwater management through its Code of Ordinances and participation in the Miami-Dade County NPDES Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) permit. New development and redevelopment must retain stormwater on-site and prevent pollutant discharge to Biscayne Bay. Projects disturbing one acre or more require a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and FDEP NPDES construction permit.
Miami-Dade appointed the first US Chief Heat Officer in 2021 and adopted an Extreme Heat Action Plan addressing outdoor workers, cooling centers, tree canopy, and cool surfaces across the county.
Miami-Dade GreenPrint sustainability plan and Administrative Order 3-37 direct departments to favor environmentally preferable products, recycled content, and energy-efficient equipment in county purchases.
Miami-Dade adopted a 2022 Climate Action Strategy and Sea Level Rise Strategy, requiring departments to integrate climate adaptation into capital planning and building decisions countywide.
Miami-Dade limits unnecessary engine idling at Port Miami, Miami International Airport, and county fleet yards under air quality and operating policies, though no countywide idling ordinance applies to private vehicles.
Roof replacements in unincorporated Miami-Dade follow Florida Building Code reflectance requirements for low-slope commercial roofs, supporting heat-island goals while complying with HVHZ wind standards.
Florida's Solar Rights Act (Statute 163.04) prohibits HOAs and deed restrictions from preventing the installation of solar energy devices in North Miami. HOAs may establish reasonable aesthetic guidelines but cannot prohibit solar panels, impose unreasonable costs, or effectively prevent installation through excessive requirements. The law applies to all residential properties statewide.
Solar panel installations in North Miami require a building permit but benefit from Florida's Solar Rights Act (Florida Statute 163.04), which prohibits deed restrictions that prevent solar installation. The city must process residential rooftop solar permits within 30 business days under Florida Statute 553.793. Electrical permits and FPL interconnection approval are also required.
North Miami regulates trash bin storage and placement through its Code of Ordinances. Garbage containers must be stored out of public view except on designated collection days. Bins must be placed curbside no earlier than 6 PM the evening before collection and retrieved by the end of the collection day. Accumulation of garbage outside of approved containers constitutes a code violation.
North Miami requires vacant lot owners to maintain their properties free of overgrown vegetation, debris, and nuisance conditions. Grass and weeds must be kept below the maximum height specified in the Code of Ordinances. Vacant lots must be secured to prevent unauthorized access and dumping. The city may perform maintenance at the owner's expense if violations are not corrected.
North Miami aggressively enforces property maintenance standards through its Code of Ordinances to combat blight. Properties must be maintained in a condition that does not constitute a nuisance or depress neighboring property values. Overgrown vegetation, accumulated debris, peeling paint, broken windows, and structural deterioration are all enforceable violations subject to progressive fines and potential lien foreclosure.
Garage sales in North Miami are permitted on residential properties subject to limitations on frequency and duration under the Code of Ordinances. Sales are limited to personal household items and may not resemble commercial retail operations. Signage must comply with the city's temporary sign regulations and may not be placed on public property or rights-of-way.
North Miami residents can post 'No Soliciting' or 'No Trespassing' signs to prohibit door-to-door solicitors. Solicitors who ignore posted signs or refuse to leave when asked are subject to trespassing charges under Florida law. The city enforces these protections through the Police Department.
North Miami requires solicitors, peddlers, and itinerant vendors to obtain a permit before going door-to-door or conducting business on city streets. Permits are issued by the city and require background checks. Solicitation is limited to daylight hours. Charitable and religious solicitation has separate provisions under Florida law.
North Miami requires replacement plantings when trees are removed under permit. Standard replacement ratios apply based on the size and species of the removed tree. Heritage and specimen trees require increased replacement ratios. Replacement trees must meet minimum caliper specifications and be maintained for a survival guarantee period.
North Miami provides enhanced protection for heritage and specimen trees, including large-diameter trees, tropical hardwoods, and historically significant specimens. Removal of heritage trees requires strong justification and significantly increased replacement ratios. Many native South Florida species receive heightened protection.
North Miami requires a permit to remove any tree with a trunk diameter of 4 inches or greater measured at 4.5 feet above grade. The city's tree protection ordinance applies to both private and public property. Tropical hardwoods and specimen trees receive heightened protection. Replacement trees are typically required.
Miami-Dade Code Chapter 24 §24-49 protects mangroves, native specimen trees, and heritage trees countywide, requiring DERM permits for trimming or removal, with strict penalties for unauthorized cutting.
North Miami prohibits outdoor lighting that causes unreasonable glare or light trespass onto adjacent properties. Commercial and multi-family developments must use shielded fixtures and submit lighting plans demonstrating zero light trespass at property lines. Residential complaints about neighbor lighting are handled through the Code Enforcement process as nuisance violations.
North Miami regulates outdoor lighting through its Code of Ordinances and Florida's sea turtle protection requirements. Coastal properties must comply with marine turtle lighting restrictions during nesting season (March 1 through October 31). Outdoor lighting on commercial and multi-family properties must be shielded to prevent light trespass and glare onto adjacent properties and rights-of-way.
Miami-Dade County’s Building Department enforces Florida Statutes Chapter 399 and ASME A17.1 elevator standards, requiring annual inspections, certified mechanics, and posted certificates in all multifamily, commercial, and public buildings.
Miami-Dade County enforces the Florida Fire Prevention Code and Florida Building Code through the Building Department and MDFR, requiring sprinklers in most new commercial buildings, high-rises, and many multifamily projects countywide.
Miami-Dade County requires construction scaffolds and sidewalk sheds to be permitted under Chapter 8A and the Florida Building Code, with engineered design, hurricane wind ratings, and OSHA worker-safety compliance for all multistory projects.
Miami-Dade landlords and sellers of pre-1978 housing must follow federal Title X lead-paint disclosure rules, and the Florida Department of Health Miami-Dade office responds to elevated child blood-lead cases with home assessments.
Miami-Dade landlords and homeowners must keep buildings free of termites, rodents, and roaches under Chapter 8A property-maintenance rules, and the Florida Department of Health Miami-Dade office investigates serious pest-related health hazards.
Miami-Dade County encourages green construction through its Resilient305 strategy and offers expedited permitting and incentives for projects meeting LEED, Florida Green Building Coalition, or county sea-level-rise standards alongside the post-Andrew building code.
Miami-Dade childcare centers must satisfy Florida Building Code, Florida Fire Prevention Code, and DCF licensing standards, with extra county zoning and inspection oversight to protect children in classroom and outdoor-play environments.
Florida HB 1365 (2024) prohibits sleeping or camping on public property statewide effective October 1, 2024. Miami-Dade enforces the ban, with citations and arrests possible after available shelter beds are offered through Camillus House and the Homeless Trust outreach team.
Miami-Dade conducts encampment sanitation through the Homeless Trust and MDPD homeless outreach. Sweeps offer shelter at Camillus House, Chapman Partnership, or Lotus House, then remove abandoned property after a 24-hour notice and store personal items for retrieval.
Miami-Dade's Continuum of Care provides bridge and transitional housing through Camillus House, Chapman Partnership, Lotus House, and Salvation Army. The Homeless Trust funds approximately 9,000 emergency, transitional, and rapid-rehousing beds annually using its food and beverage tax revenue.
Florida licenses food establishments through DBPR (most restaurants) and FDACS (groceries). FDOH-Miami-Dade handles institutional kitchens, schools, and complaints. Florida does not issue letter grades, but inspection reports are public and posted online by establishment.
Miami-Dade Code Chapter 8B addresses property maintenance and nuisances, including rodent harborage. Owners must keep premises free of conditions attracting rats. Mosquito Control District also handles vector inspections. Violations are enforced by Code Compliance with civil fines under Chapter 8CC.
Florida lacks a specific bed bug statute, but landlords must maintain habitable rental units under FL §83.51. Miami-Dade Code Compliance enforces minimum housing standards under Chapter 17. Tenants can demand treatment in writing and withhold rent only after statutory notice procedures.
Florida law treats household sharps as solid waste but encourages safe containment. Miami-Dade Solid Waste accepts sharps in rigid puncture-resistant containers at home-chemistry collection events. The IDEA Exchange in Miami operates Florida's first syringe services program under FL §381.0038.
Florida requires every DBPR-licensed restaurant to have at least one Certified Food Protection Manager (CFPM) and all employees trained in food handler basics within 60 days of hire. Certification follows ANSI-CFP accredited courses such as ServSafe and is valid five years.
Florida Statute §877.112 raised the legal sales age for tobacco and nicotine products to 21 in 2021, aligning with federal Tobacco 21 law. Miami-Dade enforces ID verification at retail. Sales to anyone under 21, including military personnel, are prohibited; the prior military exemption no longer applies.
Florida §877.111, enacted in 2022, expressly preempts local governments from banning or restricting the sale of flavored tobacco and nicotine products. Miami-Dade cannot prohibit menthol cigarettes, flavored vape pods, or flavored cigars. Federal FDA flavor rules continue to apply to cartridge-based e-cigarettes.
Florida requires retailers to hold a Tobacco Products Permit issued by the Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco. Miami-Dade Code Chapter 17B regulates cigarette and vape vending machines, prohibiting placement where minors have unsupervised access. Local zoning controls smoke-shop and vape-shop locations.
Florida §500.90 preempts local bans on polystyrene foam containers in private commerce. Miami-Dade cannot ban Styrofoam at private restaurants. The county does prohibit polystyrene at county facilities, parks, and beaches under Resolution R-578-15, which courts have upheld as proprietary action.
Florida Statute §403.7033 preempts all local regulation of disposable plastic bags. Miami-Dade and its cities cannot ban or tax single-use plastic bags. Miami Beach passed a bag ban in 2018 that was struck down. Retailers may voluntarily adopt reusable-bag programs.
Florida HB 771 (2019) imposed a moratorium on local plastic straw bans, later effectively continued. Miami-Dade restricts plastic straws only at county-owned beaches, parks, and facilities under proprietary authority. Private restaurants countywide may freely provide plastic straws.
Miami-Dade enforces a year-round two-day-per-week irrigation schedule under Code Chapter 32 and South Florida Water Management District rules, restricting lawn watering to designated days and hours.
WASD offers conservation rebates for replacing high-water-use turf with Florida-friendly landscaping, micro-irrigation, and rain sensors in unincorporated Miami-Dade and participating cities.
WASD operates a reclaimed water program serving select irrigation customers and is investing in advanced treatment to recharge the Biscayne Aquifer, reducing reliance on potable water.
Miami-Dade WASD customers can request a one-time leak adjustment on their water bill after repairing a documented leak, with proof of repair and a six-month consumption history.
The Miami-Dade Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) sets long-range land use, infrastructure, and growth policy for unincorporated areas, guiding zoning decisions and amendments under Chapter 33.
Miami-Dade Code Chapter 33C designates Rapid Transit Zones along Metrorail and SMART Plan corridors, allowing higher density mixed-use development near stations under county-controlled standards.
Miami-Dade Code Chapter 33 §33-193.7 offers density bonuses to developers in unincorporated areas who provide workforce housing units affordable to households earning 65 to 140 percent of area median income.
Miami-Dade Complete Streets Design Guidelines and Resolution R-1009-14 require bicycle and pedestrian accommodations on county roadway projects, integrating with the SMART Plan and regional Bike305 network.
Shared electric scooter and bike programs in Miami-Dade operate under municipal pilot agreements; the county follows Florida Statute 316.2128 for personal scooters and prohibits sidewalk riding in business districts.
Tobacco and vape retailers in unincorporated Miami-Dade must hold a state Tobacco Products Permit and a county Local Business Tax Receipt. Florida preempts most flavor and product bans, but local zoning and age-verification still apply.
Secondhand dealers in Miami-Dade must register with the Sheriff under Florida Statute 538, hold a county Local Business Tax Receipt, and report all transactions daily to the LeadsOnline electronic database used by MDPD detectives.
Pawnbrokers operating in Miami-Dade need a state Florida Pawnbroking Act license under FL Statute 539.001, a county Local Business Tax Receipt, and must report every pledge to MDPD via LeadsOnline within 24 hours of the transaction.
Tow truck operators working in unincorporated Miami-Dade must obtain a Wrecker Operator Permit from the Department of Regulatory and Economic Resources under Chapter 30A, and rates are capped on the county's published tow rate schedule.
Massage businesses in Miami-Dade need a state license from the Florida Board of Massage Therapy under FL Chapter 480, a county Local Business Tax Receipt, and must comply with anti-trafficking rules including posted hotline notices and ID checks.
Urinating or defecating in public view in unincorporated Miami-Dade is a misdemeanor under Chapter 21 disorderly-conduct provisions, with offenses on park property prosecuted under separate Park and Recreation rules in Chapter 26B.
Miami-Dade Chapter 21 bans aggressive solicitation, including blocking pedestrians, touching strangers, soliciting near ATMs, and approaching occupied vehicles in traffic. Passive panhandling remains protected speech under Florida and federal case law.
Miami-Dade bans smoking and vaping in all county parks and beaches under Chapter 26B, following Florida's 2022 Clean Indoor Air Act amendment that authorized local outdoor restrictions. Cigars are exempt at beaches per state law.
Loud parties in unincorporated Miami-Dade trigger Chapter 21 disorderly conduct enforcement and Chapter 8CC noise civil penalties. Hosts of repeat unruly gatherings face escalating fines and possible cost-recovery for officer response time.
Hotels and short-term rentals in Miami-Dade collect a combined 13 percent tax: 6 percent state sales tax, 4 percent Convention Development Tax, 3 percent Tourist Development Tax, and 2 percent Professional Sports Franchise Tax under Chapter 29.
Miami-Dade's Living Wage Ordinance (Chapter 2 §2-8.9, enacted 1999 as the first U.S. county living-wage law) requires direct county service contractors and airport and port concessionaires to pay above the state minimum, with rates indexed annually by the Inspector General.
Miami-Dade cannot set its own minimum wage above the Florida rate. The state Constitution Article X Section 24 fixes the floor at $14.84 in 2026, rising to $15 in September and indexed thereafter. Local minimum-wage ordinances are preempted.
Miami-Dade cannot mandate paid sick leave or predictable scheduling for private employers. House Bill 433 (2024) preempts all local employment benefits, hours, scheduling, and leave standards to the state, voiding any past or future county or city ordinances.
Florida Statute 509.032(7) and broader employment preemption framework prevent local governments from requiring private employers to follow predictive or fair-scheduling rules beyond state and federal law.
Miami-Dade is not a sanctuary jurisdiction. After being labeled a sanctuary 2013 to 2017, then-Mayor Carlos Gimenez ordered full ICE cooperation in January 2017. Florida Senate Bill 168 (2019) requires all Florida sheriffs to honor ICE detainer requests.
Florida Statute 448.095 requires every private employer with 25 or more employees to use the federal E-Verify system to confirm work authorization for new hires beginning July 1, 2023, with public agencies and contractors subject to broader requirements.
Miami-Dade County residents report code violations through the 311 Contact Center, online portal, or the Miami-Dade County mobile app. The Regulatory and Economic Resources (RER) Department handles code enforcement for unincorporated areas. Municipalities handle their own incorporated areas.
Miami-Dade County code enforcement response times vary by violation type. Life-safety hazards receive priority response within 24 hours. Standard complaints are typically inspected within 7 to 14 business days. Property owners receive compliance deadlines of 10 to 30 days after notice.
The most common code violations in Miami-Dade County include unpermitted construction, overgrown lots and vegetation, illegal short-term rentals, commercial vehicles in residential areas, signage violations, and property maintenance deficiencies. Hurricane-damaged structures are an ongoing enforcement priority.
Miami-Dade County does not specifically ban bamboo but regulates invasive species under Chapter 18A (Landscape Code) and Chapter 18B (Right-of-Way Landscape). Running bamboo species can become invasive in South Florida's tropical climate. County prohibited plant lists focus on documented invasive species threatening native ecosystems.
Miami-Dade County maintains one of the strictest prohibited plant species programs in the U.S. It is illegal to sell, propagate, or plant certain invasive species under Chapter 18A. The list includes Australian pine, Brazilian pepper, melaleuca, carrotwood, and many others. Controlled species cannot be planted within 500 feet of native plant communities.
Miami-Dade County allows front yard gardens including vegetable gardens. Florida Statute §604.71 (2019) protects homeowners' right to grow vegetables on residential property, overriding HOA and local restrictions. The county's tropical climate supports year-round edible gardening.
Miami-Dade County follows Florida state law on security cameras. Homeowners may install cameras on their property without a permit. Florida Statute §810.145 prohibits video voyeurism. Cameras must not record areas with a reasonable expectation of privacy.
Florida is a two-party (all-party) consent state under FL §934.03. Recording any conversation — in person or by phone — without the consent of all parties is a third-degree felony punishable by up to 5 years in prison. This is one of the strictest recording consent laws in the nation.
Miami-Dade County limits residential fences to 6 feet in rear and side yards and 4 feet in front yards under the county zoning code. Chain-link fences require a Zoning Improvement Permit. All fences must meet the South Florida Building Code for hurricane wind resistance.
Miami-Dade County requires building permits for most sheds and accessory structures. Small utility sheds may qualify for exemption under specific conditions. All structures must meet the South Florida Building Code's 185 mph wind resistance standard.
Miami-Dade County requires permits for most fence installations. Chain-link fences need a Zoning Improvement Permit. The county introduced a streamlined stand-alone residential fence permit process in May 2024. All fences must meet the South Florida Building Code wind resistance standards.
Miami-Dade County requires building permits for most deck and covered patio construction. Wood decks 18 inches or less above ground are exempt. Open concrete patios, walkways, and pavers do not require a building permit. All elevated structures must meet 185 mph wind standards.
Miami-Dade County requires building permits for most renovation work. The South Florida Building Code's 185 mph wind standard applies to all structural modifications. Permit fees were revised effective October 1, 2025. Online permitting is available through the county portal.
Florida allows permitless concealed carry of firearms by law-abiding adults under FS 790.01 and continues to issue concealed weapon licenses through FS 790.06, with both regimes preempting local concealed-carry restrictions.
Florida Statute 790.33 expressly preempts the entire field of firearm and ammunition regulation to the state, voiding all local ordinances and imposing personal civil penalties on local officials who knowingly enact or enforce conflicting rules.
Florida Statute 790.053 generally bans the open carry of firearms by individuals, with limited exceptions for hunting, fishing, camping, target shooting, and lawful self-defense, and preempts any local variance.
Florida Statute 790.25(5) allows any law-abiding person 18 or older to possess a concealed firearm in a private vehicle for self-defense, provided the firearm is securely encased or not readily accessible for immediate use, regardless of any concealed-carry license.
Florida Statutes 823.14 and 163.3162 restrict local governments from adopting zoning rules that inhibit established farms on agriculturally classified land, preserving agricultural uses against incompatible local regulation.
Florida Statute 823.14, the Florida Right to Farm Act, protects established bona fide farm operations from nuisance suits and local ordinances that would inhibit standard agricultural practices conducted in good faith.