Get Recognized as a Lake Friendly Lawn

Meet the basic requirements for a Lake Friendly Lawn

To be recognized, you must be a City of Orlando resident and:

• Use at least 50% slow release nitrogen fertilizer
• Use zero-phosphorus fertilizer 
• Maintain 10ft “fertilizer-free” zone around waterbody
• Use a drop spreader or deflector shield when applying fertilizer
• Keep your lawn’s grass clippings and fallen leaves out of the street and away from storm drains
• Regularly pick up all pet waste
• Follow seasonal OUC watering restrictions
• Follow all state, local and HOA codes, ordinances and rules

Meet additional optional requirements for Gold or Silver recognition

Silver recognition requires at least three of the below:

• Fertilize no more than twice per year (May and October)
• Irrigation is set to apply ½-3/4” of water per application (or no use)
• Maintain your turf at IFAS recommended height for your grass type
• A 10ft no/low maintenance zone exists around waterfront
• No use of “weed and feed” products
• 30% or more planted, non-turf lawn
• Attend a “Lake Friendly Lawn” series workshop
• Use a drip or microirrigation system in non-turf areas of lawn 

Gold recognition requires Silver recognition and at least three of the below:

• A soil nutrient test has been performed in the last year
• 50% or more planted, non-turf lawn
• Use an irrigation system with a soil moisture sensor for automatic shutoff
• Use of only designated Native or Florida Friendly plants in yard
• Use of a compost bin or pile
• Rain barrel used to catch roof runoff

Apply for recognition

You will be asked to attach clear photos of your lawn.

Apply for Recognition as a Lake Friendly Lawn

If approved, we'll deliver a yard recognition sign to your doorstep

We may reach out to you with questions before awarding your sign.

Keep maintaining your lawn

A specialist may check on your lawn to make sure you're continuing to meet all Lake Friendly Lawn criteria.

We'll send you a reminder when it's time to re-certify

You'll need to re-certify your lawn once a year or lose your recognition.