Southwest Ranches, FL

About Southwest Ranches FL

The Town of Southwest Ranches is located in Southwest Broward County near Pembroke Pines, FL.  It covers approximately 13 square miles in area and is home to over 7,000 residents.  Southwest Ranches, FL is close to major interstate highways I-75, I-595 and US 27.   It is only 15 minutes away from the Ft. Lauderdale/Hollywood International airport and just 30 minutes away from Miami International Airport.

Since the Town of Southwest Ranches was originally formed to prevent aggressive development and annexation into Pembroke Pines, the city’s council members have pledged to “preserve our rural lifestyle”.  In fact, you can even hear the sounds that are peculiar to rural communities – like the sounds of donkeys braying and roosters crowing – and above all, no sidewalks are allowed! 

Southwest Ranches FL Real Estate

Since Southwest Ranches was incorporation in June 2000, the town has acquired approximately 150 additional acres of land specifically earmarked for the development of parks and open spaces. Southwest Ranches FL real estate is zoned almost entirely for rural residential and agricultural use, requiring that lots must be a minimum of a full acre and up to two acres in area. 

The zoning commissioners also take into consideration the need for recreation and open spaces and are dedicated to the preservation of a rural environment with its unique scenery, abundance of wildlife, grazing animals, horticultural nurseries, and small farms.  In fact, the town stresses the philosophy of:  “Take only photos; leave only footprints.”

Amenities of Southwest Ranches FL

The newest areas have been zoned for community facilities that will allow uses which serve the community as a whole.  Many of the planned and existing amenities for Southwest Ranches' parks will include trailhead facilities; picnic areas with concession stands and grills, play areas with restrooms; horse, multipurpose, and nature trails; fitness courses; fishing, boat ramps; and historical museums. These community parks are to be conveniently located near each neighborhood in town.

Interestingly, commercial establishments and industry are very light, and there are only two business establishments in town, Coquina Plaza and Tom Thumb.  Students from Southwest Ranches attend schools which are located in surrounding cities.