Overview of Miami Beach’s FAR Exemption
On February 3, 2025, the City of Miami Beach approved a Floor Area Ratio (FAR) exemption specifically for the construction of gender-neutral restrooms. This zoning policy change incentivizes developers to build inclusive restroom facilities by not counting these spaces against allowable square footage—making it easier and more practical to incorporate inclusive design in new developments.
Policy Details and Code Reference
The exemption amends Miami Beach’s Resiliency Code (Section 1.2.1, General Definitions) to clearly state that unisex or gender-neutral restroom spaces do not count toward the building’s Floor Area Ratio limits.
In simple terms, developers can now create gender-neutral restrooms without losing buildable square footage or facing zoning penalties.
Why This Matters
Accessible, safe, gender-neutral facilities are critical for trans, nonbinary, and gender-diverse individuals who regularly face discrimination or difficulty accessing affirming public spaces. By creating this exemption, Miami Beach explicitly encourages equitable development that meets the needs of all residents and visitors.
This policy is a clear example of how cities can proactively embed LGBTQ+ equity into their zoning regulations.
SAVE’s Leadership Role
SAVE was instrumental in achieving this milestone. Together we:
- Drafted inclusive language and provided policy recommendations.
- Mobilized community members to advocate during public hearings.
- Collaborated with Miami Beach city officials to ensure adoption and implementation.
This success is the result of strategic advocacy, collaboration, and community engagement.
Bringing the Model to Your City
SAVE is already taking this successful policy model across South Florida, working with cities such as Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Hollywood, and Miami to adopt similar FAR exemptions.
Our approach includes:
- Providing model ordinance language.
- Coordinating advocacy strategies tailored to each city.
- Convening city leaders, planners, developers, and community stakeholders.
How to Get Involved
Interested in advancing inclusive zoning in your city? SAVE can help. We offer resources, support, and strategic partnership to help bring this proven FAR exemption model to your community.
Contact SAVE to discuss next steps or sign up here to join our regional advocacy efforts.