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 vertical farming and other high-intensity, closed agricultural production systems within urbanized areas. This initiative stems from a report highlighting the decline of traditional farmland and the need for innovative, space-efficient agricultural practices. The amendment aims to support the viability of the agricultural industry, reduce transportation emissions, conserve water, and offer resilience against environmental pressures like sea-level rise. The Recreation, Tourism, and Resiliency Committee forwarded this matter to the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) with a favorable recommendation. Stakeholders expressed frustration with regulations and a lack of support, with many citing the need for more flexible policies like those enabling urban vertical agriculture. The sector has reportedly grown substantially to meet demand, particularly from Miami's restaurant scene.