Agriculture

Miami-Dade County's agricultural lands are a unique and economically important resource. The Purchase of Development Rights Program, created in 2007, allows voter-approved General Obligation Bond funds to be used to purchase and preserve agricultural land.

This voluntary program serves as one mechanism for farmland preservation by providing Miami-Dade County with the ability to purchase residential development rights from willing property owners, ensuring that the related properties remain undeveloped and available for agricultural uses.

The land must be:

• Currently farmed
• Located outside the Urban Development Boundary
• Have available density and be designated agriculture or open land

Properties will be evaluated based on the viability of the land for agricultural purposes, property size, soil type, historical agricultural use, proximity to urban development, protected lands and other agricultural properties, and financial considerations.

To participate, complete the pre-application information sheet, fax it or mail it to the Agricultural Manager’s office.

Approval by the Board of County Commissioners is required prior to the purchase of any conservation easement. A conservation easement donation is considered a charitable donation and may provide a federal income tax deduction.

• AU – Agricultural Use Zoning District
  Learn more about the zoning requirements for the Agricultural Zoning District which allows agricultural uses, those ancillary to it, and single family residences (typically with a minimum five-acre lot) with associated customary uses including pools, sheds, private garages, carports, etc.
  
  
• Non-Residential Farm Buildings
  If you are planning on constructing a non-residential farm building to support your farm operation, contact the Homeowner & Small Business Permitting Assistance Team at 786-315-2388 or via e-mail at chat@miamidade.gov for information on applicable reviews for development in agricultural zoning districts. Currently, reviews for non-residential farm buildings are conducted via a Zoning Improvement Permit application.  
  
  
• Rural Event Venues on Agricultural Properties
  Miami Dade County allows for rural event venues, in agriculturally zoned areas, to occur for special functions such as weddings, receptions, corporate meetings, or similar gatherings. Follow the link to learn more about the requirements and how to apply for a Certificate of Use to operate as a rural event venue.

• Agricultural Practices Advisory Board
• Apply for a Nursery Certificate
• Apply for a Aquaculture Certificate
• Farm Credit
• Farmworker Employment Training
• Report an Agricultural Crime
• U.S. Department of Agriculture
• USDA Farm Loan Programs

• Ornamental Production
• Tropical Fruit Production
• Vegetable Production
• Pesticide Applicator Training