English
Arabic
Chinese (Simplified)
Dutch
French
German
Italian
Portuguese
Russian
Spanish
Water Conservation
Water Conservation in North Bay Village
Water is one of South Florida’s most precious resources, and in North Bay Village—an island community surrounded by Biscayne Bay—our connection to water is part of everyday life. Conserving water is a year‑round responsibility that helps protect the Bay, keeps utility costs down, and supports a sustainable future for our community.
Why It Matters
As a coastal island community nestled within Biscayne Bay, North Bay Village depends on the Biscayne Aquifer for its drinking water and on the health of the Bay for its environmental and economic well-being.
When water levels in the aquifer drop too low, saltwater can intrude, increasing treatment costs and threatening long-term supply reliability. Conserving water helps protect both our underground water source and the surrounding waters of Biscayne Bay—now and for generations to come.
Outdoor Watering Rules
Because what we do on land quickly reaches the water around us, outdoor irrigation rules play an important role in protecting Biscayne Bay.
Miami-Dade County irrigation restrictions apply year-round and are designed to reduce waste:
No watering between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., when evaporation is highest
Skip watering during or immediately after rainfall—it’s not just common sense, it’s the law
Rain sensors or automatic shut-off devices are required on all irrigation systems
Most landscapes only need watering two days per week for about 15 minutes. Choose one watering window—early morning before 10 a.m. or evening after 4 p.m.—and stick to it. Watering more often wastes water and can harm your plants.
Are there exceptions?
Yes. These restrictions do not apply to:
Car and boat washing
Pressure cleaning of paved surfaces
Decorative fountains
Water-based recreation, such as swimming pools
Low-volume irrigation systems, including drip or micro-jet systems that deliver water directly to plant roots, are not restricted, though reducing use is still encouraged
Smart Landscaping
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ is one of the easiest ways to save water while keeping your yard healthy—especially in a coastal environment like ours. Using native and drought-tolerant plants, grouping plants with similar water needs, and designing efficient irrigation systems all help reduce runoff into Biscayne Bay. Drip irrigation for shrubs and planting beds can make a noticeable difference.
Everyday Water-Saving Tips
Small changes in daily habits can add up to big savings.
Indoors
Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full
Check for leaks. Test toilets with a dye tablet or food coloring—if color appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak.
Turn off the tap while brushing your teeth or shaving.
Take showers instead of baths; a five-minute shower uses about one-third the water of a bath.
Soak pots and pans instead of letting water run, and reuse rinse water for houseplants.
Install WaterSense®-labeled toilets, faucets, and showerheads to save water without sacrificing performance.
Outdoors
Water lawns early in the morning and only when needed
Sweep driveways and sidewalks instead of hosing them down
Use a hose nozzle and turn off water while washing cars
Choose native or drought-tolerant plants and consider drip irrigation for trees and shrubs
Rebates and Free Devices
Miami-Dade County offers rebates and free water-saving devices to help residents reduce water use:
High-efficiency toilets: up to $50 per unit
Showerheads: up to $25
Faucets: up to $25
Homes built before 1996 may qualify, and seniors may be eligible for additional assistance, including installation by a licensed contractor. Free high-efficiency showerhead exchanges are also available at designated locations.
Learn more through Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department (WASD).
Why Upgrade?
A high-efficiency toilet can save more than 4,000 gallons per year. A WaterSense® showerhead can save nearly 3,000 gallons annually, and efficient faucets can save about 700 gallons each year. These upgrades often pay for themselves over time.
Rain Barrel Rebate
Surrounded by Biscayne Bay, North Bay Village sees firsthand how rainfall and runoff move from our streets and yards into the water around us.
South Florida receives about 50 inches of rain each year, and a single roof can collect hundreds of gallons during a storm. Installing a rain barrel is an easy way to capture rainwater for ornamental plants and landscaping, reduce stormwater runoff, and help protect Biscayne Bay.
Miami-Dade County offers a $50 rain barrel rebate after completing a short workshop (in person or online), purchasing a qualifying rain barrel, and installing it properly.
Learn more and apply through Miami-Dade County and UF/IFAS.
Our Commitment
As an island community surrounded by Biscayne Bay, North Bay Village is committed to responsible water use that protects our drinking water supply, supports healthy coastal waters, and strengthens long-term resilience.
The Village’s Water Conservation Plan provides a framework for reducing water use, improving system efficiency, and planning for the future. The Plan is reviewed periodically and coordinated with regional and state partners.
Every drop makes a difference. Together, we can protect Biscayne Bay, preserve our water supply, and build a more resilient North Bay Village.
Water Conservation in North Bay Village
Water is one of South Florida’s most precious resources, and in North Bay Village—an island community surrounded by Biscayne Bay—our connection to water is part of everyday life. Conserving water is a year‑round responsibility that helps protect the Bay, keeps utility costs down, and supports a sustainable future for our community.