▼

Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES)

Show All Answers

1. How can I enroll my child in Aventura City of Excellence School (ACES)?

Aventura City of Excellence School admits students of any race, color, national origin, religion or gender. First consideration for admission will be given to residents of Aventura and dependents of military personnel on active duty in accordance with Florida Law. When the number of applications received within the open enrollment exceeds the number of seats available, a lottery will be conducted to determine admission.

2. How do I enter the admissions lottery for ACES?

In the event a lottery is conducted, notices will be mailed to applicants within 14 days of the close of the initial enrollment period.

3. What are the grade levels at ACES?

Aventura's state-of-the-art Charter School opened in August 2003 and houses 900 students in grades Kindergarten through 8th grade. It is operated by the city in conjunction with Charter Schools USA.

4. Are there before and after care programs at ACES?

Along with after school programs such as sports or dance classes, we offer Before and After Care. It is available from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. every school day on a fee basis to all children attending ACES

▼

Building Permitting

Show All Answers

1. How can I expedite the review of my permit?

• Provide a completed application, including notarized signatures of the owner and qualifier.
• Forms: 
  • Permit Application (PDF)
  • Permit Fee Schedule (PDF)
• Submit 2 sets of plans drawn to scale and signed and sealed by a professional when required by Code.
• Submit 2 surveys as required for some types of review.
• Provide 2 sets of calculations as required by Code - these may include energy calculations, heating/cooling load calculations, and/or structural load calculations.
• Provide 2 sets of Product Approvals as required by Code - these may include roofs, utility sheds, windows, exterior doors, awnings, shutters, skylights, trusses, etc.
• Remember to submit a letter from your condo association approving work being done at your unit with your permit applications.

2. When is a permit required?

A permit ensures the consumer that the work is being done properly and with the appropriate materials. A licensed contractor is required to obtain permits in the following situations:

• General maintenance and repairs exceeding $500 in labor and materials for projects modifying a building's existing structure in any way (including tile, wood flooring and marble)
• Any electrical work, including installation of ceiling fans
• Replacement of an air conditioner unit
• Installation of a water heater
• Changing a toilet or a sink fixture

Please contact the Building Division at 305-466-8937 if you should have any questions as to whether a permit is required. For additional information, see:

• Section 105 of Florida Building Code: Permits
  FBC Section 105.1
  Any owner or owner’s authorized agent who intends to construct, enlarge, alter, repair, move, demolish or change the occupancy of a building or structure, or to erect, install, enlarge, alter, repair, remove, convert or replace any impact-resistant coverings, electrical, gas, mechanical or plumbing system, the installation of which is regulated by this code, or to cause any such work to be performed, shall first make application to the building official and obtain the required permit.
  
  
• Helpful Building Permit Information for Condominium Associations

3. Are there any other regulatory agency approvals required for permitting?

The following regulatory agencies may need to review and approve plans prior to the issuance of a permit by the City:

• Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department
  • 11805 SW 26th Street
    Miami, FL 33175
    Phone: 786-315-2771
• Miami-Dade County Regulatory & Economic Resources
  To find the nearest location:
  • Main Switchboard: 305-372-6789
  • West Dade: 786-315-2800
  • Hialeah: 305-492-2004
• Miami Dade Department of Health
  • 1725 NW 167 ST
    Miami, FL 33056
  • Phone: 305-623-3570
  • Septic Tanks: 305-623-3500
  • Water: 305-623-3500
• Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department
  • 3575 S Lejeune Road
  • Miami, FL 33233-0316
  • Phone: 305-665-7471
• North Miami Beach Public Services Department
  • 17050 NE 19 Avenue
    North Miami Beach, FL 33162
  • Phone: 305-948-2967

▼

Business Tax Receipts

Show All Answers

1. Who needs a City of Aventura Local Business Tax Receipt and Certificate of Use?

Any person doing business in the City of Aventura, even a one-person company or home-based business owner, needs a Local Business Tax Receipt, unless you qualify for an exemption. You need one Local Business Tax Receipt for each location from which you are operating the business, and one for each category of business you are conducting.

The Certificate of Use confirms that the business use at the address stated complied with Zoning District and parking requirements on the date of certificate issuance. The certificate only becomes applicable upon the issuance of a City of Aventura Local Business Tax Receipt providing there is no change of use or business ownership and no alteration or addition to the building or structure. An alteration or addition to a building or a structure, including a change to the occupancy classification* under the Florida Building Code, must be done pursuant to a building permit obtained from the City of Aventura Community Development Department – Building Division

2. How much does a Local Business Tax Receipt cost?

Taxes are levied based on the City of Aventura Municipal Code of Ordinance Tax Schedule.

3. How long does it take to get a Local Business Tax Receipt?

Upon presentation of all required documents in their complete form, Local Business Tax Receipts are issued within 3-10 business days depending on the business classification. 

4. Is the County Local Business Tax Receipt all that I need to open a business?

No – Both Miami Dade County and City of Aventura Local Business Tax Receipts are required when operating your business within city limits. 

5. Why do I need both a city and county license?

The County license is required to do business in Miami Dade County. Because the business is under the city's jurisdiction, it is also subject to the city's ordinances and zoning requirements. 

6. Which one do I get first – the City of Aventura or the Miami Dade County Local Business Tax Receipt?

We recommend that you check with us before attempting to obtain a Miami Dade County Local Business Tax Receipt. It is possible that your business classification is denied due to zoning or inspection requirements which Miami-Dade County does not check prior to collecting the tax they charge. Once you are able to confirm with us that the proposed business use is allowed at the proposed location you may apply for a Local Business Tax Receipt with Miami Dade County simultaneously. 

7. Can I apply for or renew my Local Business Tax Receipt online?

Although we are working to offer this service in the future we do not currently have an online application/renewal portal. Please follow the instructions in your renewal notice or reach out directly to us for guidance by email at BTR@cityofaventura.com or by phone at (305) 466-8942. 

8. If I have a Local Business Tax Receipt and move to a new location, change businesses name or ownership, do I need a new Local Business Tax Receipt?

Yes – You may transfer your old Local Business Tax Receipt anytime you move to a new location, change your business name or change business ownership by submitting the required applications. The transfer fee is $25.00. There is no fee for a change in mailing address only.

An application for a transfer of location or ownership will require the same documents as a new Business Tax Receipt – the same account number will be transferred and any previously paid taxes will also be transferred.

9. Do I need to obtain a Business Tax Receipt if I work as a professional (Nurse, Medical Doctor, Architect, Dentist, Realtor, Attorney, Hygienist, etc.) joining an existing office/firm?

Yes, professional business classifications are recognized professions regulated by state boards requiring examination and certification. Each person engaged in the practice of their profession whether alone, in a partnership or as an employee of another person, partnership, corporation or professional association shall be required to obtain a Local Business Tax Receipt. 

10. Where do I find the Business Type and Sub-Type required by the Certificate of Use application?

By using the Business Classification Listing above for the Certificate of Use application to determine which classification most closely correlates with my business proposal. 

11. Where do I find the Location Information (Folio Number, Zoning District, Property Owner) as required by the Certificate of Use application?

Visit the Miami Dade County Property appraiser’s website by clicking here. Then key in the address and suite number to find the property that is associated with your proposed business location. If you require guidance, email us the full address and request the information at BTR@cityofaventura.com 

12. What should I do if I go out of business, or close a business location?

Send notification of the closure of your business or business location, along with a copy of your Business Tax Receipt to be inactivated, by email to: BTR@cityofaventura.com

13. My business is a not-for-profit. Do I need a Local Business Tax Receipt?

Not-for-profit corporations are required to apply for a Local Business Tax Receipt but are exempt from paying the corresponding tax. When you submit the BTR package make sure to include the City of Aventura Tax Exemption form located above. 

14. What type of license do I need to operate a restaurant and/or bar?

To operate a restaurant, you are required to obtain a license from the Division of Hotel and Restaurants (850-487-1395) or an Annual Food Permit from the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (800-435-7352) and a City of Aventura Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt.

To operate a bar conjunction with a restaurant, you are required to obtain an alcohol sales permit (2COP/4COP) from the Department of Business and Professional Regulations, and a City of Aventura Certificate of Use and Business Tax Receipt

15. I am over age 65. What does it take to qualify for a Local Business Tax exemption?

To qualify for the over 65 exemption for Local Business Tax Receipt, you must: be a resident of the City of Aventura and show proof of age and use your own capital, with no more than $1,000 invested in starting the business (Exemption Form Required) and have no more than one employee or helper. Submit the exemption form along with the completed Local Business Tax Receipt Application Package (PDF). Request guidance by email at BTR@cityofaventura.com or by phone at (305) 466-8942 

16. I am over 65 years of age, and applied for and was granted the over-age exemption from the Local Business Tax Receipt but received a postcard renewal notice. What should I do?

You are exempt from paying the Local Business Tax, but still require a Local Business Tax Receipt to operate your business. To validate the renewal at no fee, mail the renewal notice back to the City of Aventura in the self-addressed envelope or email us at BTR@cityofaventura.com.

Note: If you are a contractor, or if your type of business requires back-up documentation, such as a State or local license, you must send a current copy of that documentation with your renewal. A validated Tax Receipt will be sent back to you in the mail.

17. What do I do if I don’t receive a renewal form for my Local Business Tax Receipt?

Renewal notices typically are sent out in July. If you do not receive your renewal notice by August 1, you should contact us immediately by email at BTR@cityofaventura.com or by phone at (305) 466-8942. Renewals must be completed before September 30th to avoid penalties. 

18. How do I obtain a Sales Tax Number for my business?

Sales Tax is handled by the Florida Department of Revenue. Visit the Florida Department of Revenue website or call (305) 470-5001 or click here to visit their website.

19. Do I need to obtain a Business Tax Receipt for a temporary business?

Yes – In most cases you will be required to obtain a Business Tax Receipt for a business that is temporary in nature. For specifics and guidance contact the City by email at BTR@cityofaventura.com or by phone at (305) 466-8942. 

▼

City Clerk

Show All Answers

1. How often do the City Commissioners meet?

Regular meetings of the City Commission are held on the first Tuesday of each month at 6 p.m. in the:

Commission Chamber
Aventura Government Center
19200 W Country Club Drive
Aventura, FL 19200

Workshop Meetings of the City Commission and Advisory Board Meetings are held monthly (or as may otherwise be scheduled) in the Executive Conference Room of the Avenuentura Government Center. The City Commission welcomes your attendance. To confirm all meetings dates and times, please contact the City Clerk's office at 305-466-8901.

▼

City Manager - Financial Transparency

Show All Answers

1. What are the City’s total General Fund Operating Expenditures?

View the City's total General Fund Operating Expenditures.

2. What revenue sources are collected by the City’s General Fund?

View the revenue sources collected by the City's General Fund.

3. What Other Locally Levied Taxes are collected by the City’s General Fund?

Find information about other locally levied taxes that are collected by the City's General Fund.

4. How much does the City collect in current Ad Valorem Taxes?

See how much the City collects in current Ad Valorem taxes.

5. What are the City’s total General Fund Capital Outlay Expenditures?

View the total General Fund Capital Outlay Expenditures for the City.

6. What are the City’s General Fund Public Safety operating expenditures?

Find out more about the City's General Fund Public Safety operating expenditures.

▼

Code Compliance

Show All Answers

1. Does the City have regulations regarding construction noise?

Construction, and other types of noises, are allowed on weekdays from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Construction is not allowed on Sundays or holidays unless special approval is received by the City Manager prior to the work being done. To receive an application to perform work after these hours, contact the Office of the City Manager at 305-466-8910.

2. Does the City have regulations concerning my dog?

The City's code requires that all dogs, when not on the premises of the owner or the person in control of the dog, must be on a leash under control of a competent person. Furthermore, it is unlawful for any person in control of any dog to fail to remove fecal matter of the dog from any public property or any private property not belonging to the owner or person having custody of the dog. "Pooper Scoopers" are provided for use by the residents in many areas of the City.

Download a brochure and map of Pooper Scooper locations (PDF).

3. Does the City have regulations regarding the types of signage I am allowed?

The City has signage regulations regarding all types of signage from signs allowed from businesses to Open House signs in residential areas. To receive a copy of the code, call the Community Development Department at 305-466-8940, or view it at municode.com.

4. What should I do if I receive a violation?

Take action to correct the violation and pay the penalty assessed. If you have questions, or if you are working on correcting the violation but need more time due to special circumstances, contact the officer that issued the violation. If you disagree with the violation, you may request a hearing with a Special Master.

If the violation is not corrected in the amount of time allotted, the offense may be scheduled to be heard by a Special Master. The Special Master hears your case and may dismiss the case or issue an order directing compliance within a specified time frame. The Special Master may also assess fines and administrative costs if the violation is not promptly removed.

▼

Community Development

Show All Answers

1. How can I complete an inspection request?

Effective Friday, September 23, 2016, inspection requests will not be accepted by telephone.

Inspection requests can be completed:

• Online
• By fax at 305-466-8949
• In person at the Building Division counter during its hours of operation from 8:30 a.m. through 3:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

2. How do I find current developments and applications in progress?

Current developments and applications in progress can be found by visiting the Community Development Economic Development page, or downloading the document (PDF).

3. Do I need to have a Business Tax Receipt to operate a business in the City?

Anyone operating a business within the City of Aventura is required to have a Certificate of Use and a Local Business Tax. The Local Business Tax was formerly known as an Occupational License. Fees are determined by the type of business or profession, and must be filed annually, prior to October 1.

4. Does the City have regulations regarding noise?

Construction, and other types of noises, are allowed on weekdays from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. and on Saturdays from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m. Construction is not allowed on Sundays or holidays unless special approval is received by the City Manager prior to the work being done. To receive an application to perform work after these hours, contact the Office of the City Manager at 305-466-8910.

5. When is a building permit required?

A permit ensures the consumer that the work is being done properly and with the appropriate materials. A licensed contractor is required to obtain permits in the following situations:

• General maintenance and repairs exceeding $500 in labor and materials for projects modifying a building's existing structure in any way (including tile, wood flooring and marble)
• Any electrical work, including installation of ceiling fans
• Replacement of an air conditioner unit
• Installation of a water heater
• Changing a toilet or a sink fixture

Please contact the Building Division at 305-466-8937 if you should have any questions as to whether a permit is required.

6. Are there any other regulatory agency approvals required for building permits?

The following regulatory agencies may need to review and approve plans prior to the issuance of a permit by the City:

• Miami-Dade Fire Rescue Department
  • 11805 SW 26th Street
    Miami, FL 33175
    Phone: 786-315-2771
• Miami-Dade County Department of Permitting, Environment and Regulatory Affairs (DPERA)
  To find the nearest location:
  • Main Switchboard: 305-372-6789
  • West Dade: 786-315-2800
  • Hialeah: 305-492-2004
• Miami Dade Department of Health
  • 1725 NW 167 ST
    Miami, FL 33056
  • Phone: 305-623-3570
  • Septic Tanks: 305-623-3500
  • Water: 305-623-3500
• Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department
  • 3575 S Lejeune Road
  • Miami, FL 33233-0316
  • Phone: 305-665-7471
• North Miami Beach Public Services Department
  • 17050 NE 19 Avenue
    North Miami Beach, FL 33162
  • Phone: 305-948-2967

7. Does the City have regulations regarding the types of signage I am allowed?

The City has signage regulations regarding all types of signage from signs allowed from businesses to Open House signs in residential areas. To receive a copy of the code, call the Community Development Department at 305-466-8940, or view it from our website under the City Clerk's section.

8. What should I do if I receive a code violation?

Take action to correct the violation and pay the penalty assessed. If you have questions, or if you are working on correcting the violation but need more time due to special circumstances, contact the officer that issued the violation. If you disagree with the violation, you may request a hearing with a Special Master. If the violation is not corrected in the amount of time allotted, the offense may be scheduled to be heard by a Special Master. The Special Master hears your case and may dismiss the case or issue an order directing compliance within a specified time frame. The Special Master may also assess fines and administrative costs if the violation is not promptly removed.

9. How can I expedite review of my building permit?

• Provide a completed application, including notarized signatures of the owner and qualifier.
• Submit 2 sets of plans drawn to scale and signed and sealed by a professional when required by Code.
• Submit 2 surveys as required for some types of review.
• Provide 2 sets of calculations as required by Code - these may include energy calculations, heating/cooling load calculations, and/or structural load calculations.
• Provide 2 sets of Product Approvals as required by Code - these may include roofs, utility sheds, windows, exterior doors, awnings, shutters, skylights, trusses, etc.

10. Do I need a Local Business Tax to operate a business from home?

Home businesses require a Home Local Business Tax Application along with proof of residency such as a utility bill.

11. Who needs to file Local Business Tax or Occupational License in the City?

Any person, firm, association, or corporation maintaining a business location or branch office within the City limits for the privilege of engaging in or managing a business, profession, or occupation, within the City. Any person who utilizes a residential unit to conduct a home business, profession, or occupation. An application is required for each separate classification at the same business.

12. What is the penalty for operating a business without filing Local Business Tax?

The penalty for operating without a current Local Business Tax starts at $250 and can escalate to imprisonment and closure of business.

13. Do I still need to file anything with Miami-Dade County for my business?

Miami-Dade County has its own tax requirements. For more information, contact:
Miami-Dade County Business Tax  
140 W Flagler Street
Room 1407
Miami, FL 33130
Phone: 305-270-4949

14. Is my home or business in a flood zone?

Most areas within the City have been designated "Special Flood Hazard Areas" by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Federal law requires the purchase of flood insurance if your home is located in one of these areas. The City can review the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) prepared by FEMA to determine if your property is located in a Special Flood Hazard Area for insurance purposes. Call the Community Development Department at 305-466-8940. You may also contact the National Flood Insurance Program at 800-638-6620 for more information.

15. Is feeding wild ducks harmful?

The ducks found in the City of Aventura around ponds and other waterways can be a mix of native and migratory waterfowl. As with any wildlife you come across in Florida, it is never a good idea to feed them.  Wildlife need to retain their natural instincts for survival. When animals are fed by humans important instincts, like migration, can be altered. The seemingly "helpful" act of feeding ducks can change their natural instinct to migrate back to their natural breeding grounds.

Food handouts can also increase the number of birds in a small area causing a potential for the spread of disease with increased droppings near water where it can travel through the local ecosystem. The dependency of wildlife on people for food can also cause nuisance situations and conflict between people and animals.

For more information about feeding wild waterfowl, view the U.S. Fish and Wildlife brochure titled, "Caution: Feeding Waterfowl May Be Harmful! (PDF)"

▼

Community Services

Show All Answers

1. Does the City have regulations concerning my dog?

The City's code requires that all dogs, when not on the premises of the owner or the person in control of the dog, must be on a leash under control of a competent person. Furthermore, it is unlawful for any person in control of any dog to fail to remove fecal matter of the dog from any public property or any private property not belonging to the owner or person having custody of the dog. "Pooper Scoopers" are provided for use by the residents in many areas of the City. You can download a brochure and map of Pooper Scooper locations from our website.

2. Do I need a separate membership for the Community Recreation Center?

Membership to the Center is available for families, couples and individuals. Fees can be paid for six months or annually.

Memberships can be purchased exclusively online only at cityofaventura.com/ors, the City's Online Registration System (ORS).

Memberships may be purchased in person on a need basis.

3. How can I find out what programs are being offered at the Community Recreation Center and Parks?

The City's Online Registration System (ORS) at cityofaventura.com/ors contains the full catalog of all the programs and activities offered in Aventura.

4. When is the Splash Pad open at Founders Park?

The Splash Pad is open from Spring and through the Summer until September when it closes for the season.

▼

Information Technology

Show All Answers

1. Does the City of Aventura offer free public wireless internet access?

At this time, the City of Aventura does not host free public wireless internet access. If you see a wireless connection with the names 'public', 'free', or 'Aventura' be aware that this is a private entity. They are in no way affiliated with the City of Aventura.

▼

Police Department

Show All Answers

1. How can I file a complaint against an officer?

You can file a complaint against an officer in several ways:

1. Fill out a complaint form which is available in the records section at the:
   1. Police Station
      19200 W Country Club Drive
      Aventura, FL 33180
2. Call the Police Department at 305-466-8989 and ask for the officer's direct supervisor.
3. Fill out and complete the online Police Citizen Complaint Form.
4. Write a letter detailing the incident and send it to:
   1. Aventura Police Department
      Internal Affairs Department
      19200 W Country Club Drive
      Avenura, FL 33180
      
      
      

2. I would like a security survey for my residence or business. Who should I contact?

This service is provided by the Aventura Police Department's Crime Prevention Unit. Contact Ernie Long at 305-466-8962 to schedule an appointment.

3. How I can determine who has been assigned to investigate my case in the Police Department?

Call 305-466-8989, ext. 8125 with your case number to find out who has been assigned to your case.

▼

Police Department - 911 Information

Show All Answers

1. What is 911?

911 is an emergency response service provided by the Aventura Police Department to assist residents needing police, fire and medical assistance for emergencies. 911 operators are trained in (EMD) Emergency Medical Dispatch, and provide critical instructions to callers until rescue units arrive.

2. When should you call 911?

911 Emergency calls should be made only when a crime is in progress, a fire, a medical emergency or any other situation needing immediate attention.

3. How do I contact the police department for non-emergency matters?

Dial 305-466-8989 for all non-emergency police related matters. Utilizing the 911 system for non-emergencies could prevent someone with a legitimate emergency from getting immediate access to help.

▼

Police Department - Intersection Safety Camera Program

Show All Answers

1. Why did I get this Notice of Violation?

A vehicle, registered or leased to you, was photographed by an automatic camera monitoring a traffic signal that is active upon vehicle movement after the light is red. Not stopping at a red light, flashing red light, malfunctioning traffic light or at a red arrow is a violation of Florida State Statutes §316.074(1) and §316.075(1)(c)1. This includes completing a right turn in a non-careful and prudent manner, and/or completing a right turn at an intersection with a “No Turn On Red’ sign.

2. How much is the fine?

Violators will be assessed a $158 penalty if paid within 60 days of the postmark date of the Notice of Violation. After 60 days, a Uniform Traffic Citation may be issued with a fine of $277.

3. What is my notice number and PIN number?

Your notice number and PIN number are located in the red box of your Notice of Violation, and are needed to view and pay the violation.

4. What are the images on the Notice of Violation?

Your Notice of Violation shows three still images. The 1st image is a close-up of your vehicle’s license plate. The 2nd image shows the vehicle at the white stop bar and the illuminated red light. The 3rd image shows the violator in the middle of the intersection with the red light illuminated.

5. Where are the cameras located?

• North and Southbound West Country Club Drive at NE 199 Street (Aventura Boulevard)
• Eastbound NE 199 Street (Aventura Boulevard) at West Country Club Drive
• North and Westbound on West Country Club Drive at Lehman Causeway
• Westbound, Northbound and Southbound NE 199 Street (Aventura Boulevard) at Biscayne Boulevard
• Westbound and Southbound NE 191 Street at Biscayne Boulevard
• Northbound Biscayne Boulevard and Miami Gardens Drive

▼

Public Works & Transportation

Show All Answers

1. Who can I contact regarding a problem with public properties or roadways such as debris or drainage?

If you have any questions, comments or concerns regarding public property maintenance, drainage, sidewalks and streets, or any other public works related item, you can create a service request online or call the Public Works Division at 305-466-8931.

2. Who takes care of maintaining our streets and public properties?

Public Works manages and maintains all public property including public streets, facilities, right-of-ways and medians within the City limits. The Public Works Division issues permits for any work within the public right-of-way in the City, and is responsible for fleet maintenance. In keeping with the City's philosophy of operating the government as a private business, all of the public services are contracted to the private sector. This approach to delivering public service targets the public dollar to direct services, rather than related costs such as equipment, personnel, commodities and supplies.

▼

Public Works & Transportation - Stormwater

Show All Answers

1. What can you do about illicit discharges?

You can help keep our lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, and groundwater clean by applying the following tips.

• Sweep it. Do you have extra fertilizer, grass clippings, or dirt on your driveway or sidewalk? Sweep it back onto your lawn. Hosing your driveway sends these pollutants
  into storm drains that lead directly to our lakes and rivers.
• Keep it clean. Whether in the street or in your yard, remember to keep leaves, grass clippings, trash, and fertilizers away from storm drains.
• Only rain in the drain. Never dump motor oil, chemicals, pet waste, dirty or soapy water, or anything else down the storm drain. All of these materials pollute our lakes and rivers!
• Clean it. Clean up after your pet to reduce pet waste traveling to local waterways.
• Dispose of it properly. Take household hazardous waste (paint, motor oil, etc.) to a local collection event.
• Report it. If you see someone dumping something into a storm drain, or see a direct connection to a storm drain that may be pollution you are encouraged to report it. You can do this by contacting the Public Works/Transportation Department at 305-466- 8970 or contact the Aventura Police Department non-emergency number at 305-466- 8989.

Many people think storm drains connect into the City’s sewage system and that everything placed in the drain will end up at wastewater plants for treatment. In actuality, storm drains lead to local waterways. Here in Aventura, almost all storm drains eventually drain to either the Intracoastal or fresh water aquafer. Debris and contaminants can enter the storm drain system by way of stormwater runoff.

2. What Is runoff?

When it rains, water falls on the ground. If that ground is covered with pavement or buildings, or any other impervious (nonporous) surface the water runs off of the surface and into our curbs, down our storm drains and ends up in our local waterways. Runoff can even occur on previous surfaces when the rainfall is heavy, or the area is sloped and there is nothing to slow the flow of water over the land and into the streets.

3. Why is runoff a problem? Why should I care?

Runoff carries pollutants such as nutrients, oil, dirt, trash, metals, chemicals, and fertilizers into local waterways.

4. Does runoff effect our community?

According to the EPA, "a typical city block generates more than 5 times more runoff than a woodland area of the same size." Not only is there more runoff from developed areas, but there is also a significant increase in both the amount and variety of pollutants in that runoff.

5. What can I do about runoff?

To minimize the runoff from your home or business:

1. Landscape your home and business with Florida native plants and minimize turf areas. This will minimize your irrigation, which of course, reduces runoff. Native plants also do not need chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides. This reduces what kind of pollutants runoff your property. The plants will also help to create a more varied terrain to help keep the water on your yard.
2. Use pesticides and fertilizers sparingly. When you do use them, follow the directions and never fertilize before it rains (because then it all runs off).
3. Dispose of used motor oil, paint, and other chemicals at designated locations. Never put these contaminants in a storm drain!
4. Re-use your yard waste (leaves, grass cuttings, etc.) in your yard for mulch and soil augmentation. If you need to dispose of it, follow the directions from your solid waste provider. Never blow or sweep yard waste into the curb.
5. Wash your car at a commercial car wash or on your lawn-not the driveway.
6. Use rain barrels and rain gardens to capture the runoff from your roof.

To learn more about green techniques to minimize the impact of stormwater runoff on waterways, visit the EPA's Urban Runoff website.