Moving to Three Lakes? 7 Things You Need To Do Immediately!
Amit Bhuta
I use non-traditional marketing to inspire the most motivated buyers to pay the max for Miami luxury homes...
I use non-traditional marketing to inspire the most motivated buyers to pay the max for Miami luxury homes...
Rise to shimmering lakes, peaceful paths, and a calm, suburban rhythm that settles in beautifully against the energy of nearby Miami — welcome to Three Lakes, a master-planned suburban pocket in South Dade.
Nestled just east of the Everglades and framed by the communities of Kendall and South Miami Heights, Three Lakes enjoys enviable proximity to Miami's thriving core, with smooth access to major roadways like the Turnpike and SW 120th Street to keep the entire city within reach.
And while it may fly under the radar compared to its bigger and brighter neighbors, longtime locals know better.
This pocket of suburbia shines in all the ways that matter: generous green spaces, family-forward neighborhoods, and a peaceful environment that gives residents room to breathe, grow, and truly feel at home.
Here, lakefront views greet you on morning strolls, culs-de-sac lend themselves to friendly hellos, and community warmth blends seamlessly with the conveniences of urban Miami — dreamy? Absolutely.
Three Lakes also places you close to shopping, dining, and everyday essentials, with nearby hubs like The Palms at Town & Country and London Square offering everything from weekend bites to last-minute errands, all while keeping business centers and major employment zones just minutes away.
And when it comes to housing, Three Lakes keeps your options wide open.
Can we declare Three Lakes a top pick for families and professionals alike?
We think it's more than fair.
So if you're ready to embrace a lifestyle that blends tranquility, convenience, and a hint of lakeside magic, let's dive into everything you need to know about making Three Lakes your next home sweet home.
Here are 7 things you need to do IMMEDIATELY when moving to Three Lakes.
(1)
The Staples of the Homefront: Activating Your Three Lakes Utilities
Planning your perfect first day in Three Lakes?
A peaceful lakeside stroll, a quick hello to the neighbors, and unpacking those boxes with your favorite playlist echoing through your new place...
But wait—why isn't the light turning on?
Did you forget to request your utilities?
If you did, don't panic.
Getting everything connected is a quick, stress-free process you can handle entirely online, WHILE your Three Lakes daydream becomes reality.
Start with Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) for your electricity — you can open an account or update an existing one straight through their website.
New to FPL? They'll ask for standard identification, such as your Social Security Number, Tax ID, or Driver's License, plus your Three Lakes address and preferred start date.
A small deposit (usually around $25) and any setup fees may apply.
If you're already an FPL customer, update your move-in details, and you're golden.
Next, check if your address falls within the coverage area for Florida City Gas (FCG).
Some pockets of Three Lakes use natural gas, others don't, and a quick lookup will save you the guessing game.
If they serve your home, you can sign up as a new customer or transfer your existing service.
Note that deposits vary based on home size and projected usage, and you must settle a connection fee before the warm water and gas appliances jump into action.
Then, head over to the Miami-Dade Water & Sewer website to activate your water service, pay a $50 deposit for water, $50 deposit for sewer, and a $45 connection fee (non-refundable).
Already a customer? You can transfer your account once you pay your previous balance.
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(2)
Hello Three Lakes, Hello Wi-Fi: Your Digital Connection Starter Pack
Settling into your new Three Lakes home means your first week will include two non-negotiables: figuring out where your favorite mugs ended up and getting your internet up and running before the buffering wheel becomes your new roommate.
The good news is, two major players have your digital back in this neighborhood: Comcast Xfinity and AT&T.
Between streaming, video calls, online shopping, and the 'just one more episode' nights, you'll want a setup that keeps up with your household's screen habits.
Start by sizing up your digital appetite.
Are you a casual browser who mostly checks emails and watches the occasional YouTube recipe? Or are you moving in with dedicated gamers, nonstop binge-watchers, or work-from-home pros who need all the bandwidth the universe can offer?
Knowing your usage helps you pick a plan that won't leave anyone fighting over the Wi-Fi.
Once you know what you need, you can swing by your nearest service center or — the more Three Lakes–efficient option — set everything up online using your address and ID.
Already an existing Xfinity or AT&T customer? Ensure your current account is in the clear before transferring service to avoid delays or awkward "no active connection found" messages on move-in day.
Need a friendly tip? Ask about everything upfront: deposits, activation fees, equipment charges, rental options, promos, and whether you can self-install or schedule a technician.
Once that modem is plugged in and those bars are rising, you're officially ready for every lakeside selfie upload, late-night streaming session, and connected moment your new Three Lakes life demands.
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(3)
Say Cheese: It's Time for Your First Three Lakes ID Photo
Nothing makes your move feel "official-official" quite like updating your ID with your new address, which means it's time to practice your best DMV-appropriate smile, since the easiest route is a Florida driver's license, especially if you're from another state or country.
Florida gives you 30 days after establishing residency to make things legit, and getting your license ensures you can drive around your new lakeside neighborhood without worrying about technicalities.
Plus, who doesn't want an ID that matches the place they live in?
Your stop for all things licensing is the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV).
Depending on your residency category, you must bring specific proof of identity and legal presence:
• U.S Citizen
• Immigrant
• Non-Immigrant
• Canadian
Once you've got the paperwork ready, the rest is just choosing your date, showing up, and hoping the camera catches your "well-rested" angle.
By the way, the fees are pretty straightforward: $48 for an initial Class E license, $75 for a commercial license (Class A), and $25 for an ID card.
For a complete list of driver's license fees, click here.
If you're converting a valid license from another state, you may skip the Drug and Alcohol courses and the Class E Knowledge exams — but the Vision and Hearing tests are still required.
Already have a Florida driver's license? Easy.
Notify the DMV about your new Three Lakes address to update your ID, and while you're at it, register and insure your vehicle within 10 days of moving — a small but important detail for your fresh start.
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(4)
Learning Local: Top Public, Charter & Private Schools in Three Lakes
Thinking school-hunting will be a challenge in Three Lakes? Not quite.
This neighborhood keeps your options close, convenient, and across public, charter, and private education.
We're talking about BridgePrep Academy of Village Green, which offers a strong charter option with a structured approach, Jack David Gordon Elementary School for a warm, community-centered public school experience, and Devon Aire K-8 Center for the perk of one campus from kinder through middle school.
Meanwhile, for private, faith-based learning, Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School provides a values-focused environment that families appreciate.
For an even deeper dive, check out our blog on the Best Schools in Three Lakes or browse the Miami-Dade County Public Schools website for district-wide info.
And if you're looking for childcare or early learning before the next school year begins, our guide to Daycares in Three Lakes will point you to nearby professional options.
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(5)
Your Civic Superpower: Voter Registration in Three Lakes
Ready to officially make your mark in your new community? Registering to vote is one of the quickest — and arguably coolest — ways to plug into life in Three Lakes.
Think of it as unlocking your local superpower: the ability to help shape what happens right where you live.
If you're a U.S. citizen of legal voting age, submit your application through the Florida Department of State or the Miami-Dade County Elections Department — online, by mail, or in person at an Elections Branch office.
Wherever you do it, make sure to have a valid ID ready.
A Florida Driver's License or U.S. passport works perfectly, but any ID with both a photo and signature does the trick.
Once your registration is in motion, you're all set to participate in upcoming elections and cast your vote in your new district.
It's a small step with a significant impact — and a great way to start becoming part of the civic heartbeat of Three Lakes.
For more information on accepted IDs, deadlines, and additional requirements, click here.
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(6)
Curbside Confidence: Navigating Three Lakes Trash Day
Keeping Three Lakes clean and lakeside-lovely is easier than it looks — all it takes is knowing when to roll out the carts and what goes where.
Once you understand the schedule, waste day becomes one of the simplest chores on your move-in list.
Here's how things work for Three Lakes residents:
- Residential Garbage Collection: Twice a week (schedule varies by area)
- Recycling Collection: Once every two weeks
- "Bulky" Trash Collection: Two free pickups per year (up to 25 cubic yards each) by scheduling them online or calling 311 before setting items out.
To keep everything running smoothly, place your green waste cart at the curb by 7 a.m. on your scheduled pickup day, making sure it's within three (3) feet of the street and at least five (5) feet away from mailboxes, parked cars, or other obstacles.
Your cart's lid must be fully closed for collection — anything sticking out could lead to a missed pickup.
Remember: furniture, appliances, and oversized items should never be inside your green waste cart; take them to a Neighborhood Trash and Recycling Center or schedule them as part of your bulky waste pickup.
For more detailed information on your specific schedule, guidelines, or fees, visit the Miami-Dade Solid Waste Management website or your HOA/building management.
Help keep Three Lakes clean and green — in every sense and in every corner!
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(7)
New Address, New Adventures: Becoming Weekend-Ready in Three Lakes
Living in Three Lakes means your weekends are about to get a whole lot more interesting — and surprisingly close to home.
Once you stop hauling the moving boxes and take a breath, the fun part begins: figuring out where this neighborhood likes to play.
A great place to start is Deerwood Bonita Lakes Park, a local favorite with calm lakes, looping paths, and green spaces, inviting you to a moment of peace after a hectic move.
When you want more room to roam, make your way over to Larry & Penny Thompson Memorial Park.
Think sprawling picnic fields, bike-friendly trails, a lake, and even campsites if you're feeling outdoorsy — it's close enough for quick trips but big enough to feel like you left the city behind.
Looking for a day filled with excitement? Zoo Miami is just around the corner and promises endless entertainment with its sprawling exhibits, safari-style layout, and lush, animal-filled landscapes.
If your version of "weekend adventure" involves food, shopping bags, or a casual stroll with an iced coffee, swing by The Palms at Town & Country.
And when you want something even closer, London Square is just down the road — perfect for quick dinners, convenience shopping, or your inevitable Target run.
Of course, this is just a tiny preview of everything around you.
For a deeper dive into what Three Lakes offers, check out our comprehensive neighborhood blog, Three Lakes, Miami, Florida – EVERYTHING You Want to Know!
Get comfortable — your Three Lakes weekends are about to get good.
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