What can you do
Follow the new law and spread the word about safe fertilizer use:
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Spread the word by sharing our fertilizer awareness toolkit!
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Do not apply fertilizer on your lawn during the rainy summer months, between May 15 and October 31. This is important because fertilizer is washed away down the drain before your plants can use it in the rainy season; wasting time, and money, and causing pollution.
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During the non-summer months, apply fertilizer at least 20 feet from waterways and storm drains. This means that fertilizer can be washed away without harming waterways.
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Use only phosphorus-free fertilizer year-round, as Miami’s soil naturally contains enough phosphorus to sustain plant life and you don’t need to add more.
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Use fertilizers that contain at least 65% slow-release nitrogen so more of it stays in your yard – even if there’s a big rain.
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Manage yard clippings to prevent them from entering stormwater drainage systems or water bodies. When grass clipping and leaves decompose, they release nutrients that can pollute waterways.
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Use as little fertilizer as possible and try to avoid using chemicals like herbicides and pesticides, which affect wildlife and human health.
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If you apply fertilizers as part of your job, get trained on the best management practices that help protect water resources. This can be done through UF IFAS Green Industry - Best Management Practices Program.
These regulations apply throughout Miami-Dade County, but you should always check the Miami-Dade County website for specific requirements and details. Check the laws within your municipality for additional restrictions and exemptions.