Miami-Dade County, FL Water Use Rules: Turf Replacement Rebates (2026)
Key Facts
- Lead agency
- WASD
- State protection
- FL Statute 373.185
- Inspection
- Required post-install
- Plan
- Florida-Friendly required
Summary
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.
“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. Additional components include practices such as landscape planning and design, soil analysis, the appropriate use of solid waste compost, minimizing the use of irrigation, and proper maintenance.
Full Breakdown
The Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department administers a Water-Wise rebate program that pays residential and commercial customers for converting irrigated turf to drought-tolerant native landscaping that meets Florida-Friendly Landscaping principles. Rebates also cover installation of rain sensors, soil moisture sensors, and micro-irrigation retrofits. Applicants must apply before starting work, submit a landscape plan, and pass post-installation inspection. State law (FL Statute 373.185) protects Florida-Friendly Landscaping from HOA prohibitions, though community design review may still apply. The program prioritizes replacing St. Augustine grass with native ground covers.
Violations & Fines
Misrepresenting installation or removing approved plantings within the program retention period may require rebate repayment plus administrative penalties.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can my HOA reject native plants?
Do renters qualify?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in Miami-Dade County
Florida rules heatmap·Compare Miami-Dade County to another location·View the Florida water use rules overview
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