C4Y - Enforce Quality of Life

Committee Referrals - C4 Y

COMMISSION MEMORANDUM

RECOMMENDATION

BACKGROUND/HISTORY

Please place on the June 25, 2025 City Commission agenda a referral to the Public Safety and Neighborhood Quality of Life Committee (“PSNQLC”) meeting to discuss options to enhance enforcement of quality of life offenses such as excessive noise from the utilization of outdoor equipment and the smoking ban on the beaches.

The City Commission recognizes and prioritizes the importance of maintaining the quality of life for its residents. However, two (2) recurring concerns I have received that have prompted complaints and warrant greater enforcement attention are: excessive noise generated by outdoor equipment (particularly leaf blowers) and violations of the City’s smoking ban on the beaches. These infractions contribute significantly to environmental degradation, health concerns, and overall resident dissatisfaction when left unaddressed.

Excessive noise from landscape maintenance equipment, especially early in the morning or during weekend hours, disrupts the peace in residential neighborhoods. While I recognize that the City Commission has already prohibited the use of gas-powered leaf blowers within the City, electric and battery powered leaf blowers are still permissible (subject to the City’s noise Ordinance). Yet, while the City already has Ordinances in place to regulate such equipment, enforcement has proven challenging. Enhanced enforcement options may include dedicating Code Compliance or Police Department personnel during peak usage hours and issuing immediate citations with increased penalties for repeat offenders.

Likewise, the smoking ban on City beaches was enacted to protect public health, reduce litter, and promote a cleaner, more family-friendly environment. Yet, enforcement remains inconsistent, and cigarette butts continue to mar the shoreline and our beautiful beaches. Increased signage, targeted patrols, and education campaigns could strengthen compliance. We might also want to consider partnering with beach concessionaires and ambassadors, and even utilizing our lifeguards, to help spread awareness and report violations.

As part of this discussion, I would request that the City Administration present the Committee with specific recommendations regarding how to bolster enforcement through resource reallocation, the use of technology, public-private partnerships, and/or any other viable means. A more robust and visible enforcement presence can significantly improve compliance, deter repeat violations, and preserve our City as a clean, safe, and enjoyable destination for residents and visitors.

ANALYSIS

FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT

n/a

Does this Ordinance require a Business Impact Estimate? (FOR ORDINANCES ONLY)

If applicable, the Business Impact Estimate (BIE) was published on: See BIE at: https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/city-clerk/meeting-notices/

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

CONCLUSION

Applicable Area

Citywide

Was this Agenda Item initially requested by a lobbyist which, as defined in Code Sec. 2-481, includes a principal engaged in lobbying? No

If so, specify the name of lobbyist(s) and principal(s):

Department

Office of Commissioner Tanya K. Bhatt

Sponsor(s)

Commissioner Tanya K. Bhatt

Co-sponsor(s)

Commissioner Alex Fernandez

Condensed Title

Ref: PSNQLC - Enhanced Enforcement of Quality of Life Violations. (Bhatt/Fernandez)

Previous Action (For City Clerk Use Only)