Coral Gables, FL Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)
Key Facts
- Governing section
- City Code Sec. 62-153
- Notice to remove
- 10 days after written notice
- Obstruction fine
- Up to $500 civil penalty
- Emergency hazards
- City removes immediately, bills owner
Summary
Coral Gables bans placing or maintaining any tree, shrub, or other obstruction on a street, sidewalk, or swale, unless the city commission or city manager approved it in writing.
It shall be prohibited to place, maintain, or allow any tree, shrub, or other obstruction upon any street, sidewalk, or swale area within the city. For purposes of this section, "obstruction" shall not include any tree, shrub, swale treatment, or encroachment approved in writing by the city commission or city manager or as otherwise permitted by the city code.
Official source re-checked September 7, 2026: no newer edition of the code had been published (publisher’s edition: Fee Schedule: Supplement 2 | Zoning Code: Supplement 1 | Code of Ordinances: Supplement 25 Update 1).
Full Breakdown
City Code Sec. 62-153 prohibits placing, maintaining, or allowing any tree, shrub, or other obstruction on a street, sidewalk, or swale area unless it was approved in writing by the city commission or city manager, or is otherwise permitted by the code. The city sends the abutting property owner written notice to remove the obstruction; after ten days without compliance the city removes it and assesses the cost against the property as a lien. If the obstruction is an emergency safety hazard, the city removes it immediately and still assesses the cost.
Violations & Fines
Civil penalty up to $500 for obstructing a street, sidewalk, or swale; $100 for failing to remove an obstruction after notice; unpaid removal costs become a lien on the property.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I put a planter or shrub on the sidewalk strip?
What happens if I ignore a removal notice?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Coral Gables
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Coral Gables to another location·View the Florida sidewalk & pedestrian rules overview
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Obstruction Rules in Nearby Cities
How other cities in Miami-Dade County handle obstruction rules.