There are things you can do to minimize or eliminate property damage before a flood event occurs. Grading your property, elevating and securing electrical appliances, placing all low-lying electrical fixtures on separate electrical circuits, and using flood-resistant materials on exterior surfaces are some ways you can help yourself.

Under emergency conditions, sandbags can be used to shore structures, and elevating or covering furniture and valuables can help minimize damage.

To reduce street flooding, Miami-Dade's Stormwater Utility is in the process of identifying, prioritizing and implementing local drainage projects throughout unincorporated Miami-Dade County.

Please call (305) 372-6688 to report any unusual flooding in your area. Municipal residents should contact your city or village to report flooding.

All construction in Miami-Dade County requires the issuance of building permits prior to construction

Permits are obtained after submittal and approval of building plans. An important part of this review process is the requirement that structures be built high enough and use proper design techniques to protect against flood damage.

If you plan to construct an addition to your house, to build a new house, to fill a property, or for any development, call Miami-Dade County's Building Department at (786) 315-2000, for information on how to obtain the necessary permits.

If you see construction occurring without the proper permits, please call the Building Department's Code Enforcement Office, at (786) 315-2424, to report these activities. Remember, buildings constructed improperly can be dangerous to the whole neighborhood!

Did you know that it is Illegal to throw anything - anything at all! -into the rivers, canals, lakes, bay, the ocean or other waters of Miami-Dade County? Do you know that nothing but rainwater is allowed to drain into the storm drains located in streets, curbs, and right-of-ways? Help us keep the waters and streets of Miami-Dade County clean! If you witness dumping of any liquid or materials into storm drains or waters of the County, please call DERM's 24-hour telephone number, at (305) 372-6955, or Crime Stoppers at (305) 471 -TIPS, to report these activities.