DIRECTING CDMP AMENDMENT RE VERTICAL FARMING

Recreation, Tourism, and Resiliency Committee · 2026-07-14 · resolution

Miami-Dade County is directing the County Mayor or designee to file an application to amend the Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) to allow or encourage greater allowances for high-intensity, closed agricultural production systems, such as vertical farming, inside urbanized areas. This initiative stems from a report highlighting the decline in agricultural land and the need for innovative, space-efficient farming methods. The amendment aims to support the viability of the agricultural industry, particularly for small operations, by enabling vertical farming in areas zoned residential, commercial, or industrial, provided it is compatible with surrounding development. Over 70 stakeholders expressed frustration with existing regulations and a lack of support, citing a need for more flexible policies like those enabling urban vertical agriculture. The vertical farming sector in Miami-Dade has reportedly grown substantially to meet demand, especially from the restaurant scene.