Local Guide · Standby generator installation · Miami, FL
What does Miami-Dade require for a standby generator?
Miami-Dade's generator checklist sets site plan, electrical, exhaust and fuel rules for permanent generators. Here is what it asks for and what HOAs must allow.
In unincorporated Miami-Dade County, a permanent generator needs a permit with a site plan showing distances to buildings and property lines, the transfer switch location, and exhaust at least 10 feet from property lines and operable openings. Inside a city such as Miami, check with that city's building department. HOAs must allow generators that meet their hurricane protection specifications.
Key facts for Miami, FL
- Miami-Dade's generator checklist applies to properties in unincorporated Miami-Dade County; city residents must contact their municipal building department.
- Miami-Dade requires a site plan showing the generator, any permanent fuel tanks and distances to buildings and property lines.
- Miami-Dade requires generator exhaust to end at least 10 feet from property lines, 3 feet from exterior walls and roofs, 10 feet from operable openings and 10 feet above adjoining grade.
- Miami-Dade requires gas pipe bonding under the National Electrical Code for gas-fueled generators.
- For propane, Miami-Dade requires container locations to meet NFPA 58 separation distances.
- Florida law lists exterior fixed generators as hurricane protection that an HOA must allow when it meets the HOA's specifications.
What does Miami-Dade's checklist require?
Miami-Dade's checklist for permanent generators asks for a permit application signed by the owner and qualifying agent, plans, and a site plan with the generator, fuel tanks and distances to buildings and property lines. The electrical section requires the transfer switch location, gas pipe bonding and a one-line diagram.
Where can the exhaust go?
The county requires the exhaust termination to be at least 10 feet from property lines, 3 feet from exterior walls and roofs, 10 feet from operable openings into buildings, and 10 feet above adjoining grade, under the Florida Building Code Mechanical. Propane containers must meet NFPA 58 separation distances.
What if your HOA objects?
Under Florida Statutes 720.3035, an HOA must adopt hurricane protection specifications, and exterior fixed generators and fuel tanks count as hurricane protection. The board may not deny an application that meets those specifications.
How to choose a provider in Miami, FL
- Check the electrical contractor's EC or ER license on DBPR.
- For propane, ask for the installer's state LP gas license.
- Get the site plan with distances to openings and property lines.
- Check your HOA's hurricane protection specifications.
- Confirm inspections are passed.
- Install CO alarms on every level.
Questions people ask
Do I need a permit for a generator in Miami-Dade?
Yes. The county's checklist covers permanent generators in unincorporated areas. Inside a city, contact that city's building department.
How far must generator exhaust be from my property line?
Miami-Dade requires at least 10 feet, plus 10 feet from operable openings and 3 feet from exterior walls and roofs.
Who licenses Miami generator electricians?
The state, through DBPR's Electrical Contractors' Licensing Board.
Does a propane tank have distance rules?
Yes. Miami-Dade requires container locations to meet NFPA 58 separation distances.
Can my HOA stop my generator?
Not if it meets the hurricane protection specifications the HOA must adopt under Florida law.
Sources
This guide was written by our editorial team from the public sources listed above. It is general information, not legal advice; confirm licensing and terms directly with any provider.
