R5I - Prohibit Plastic Decor at Public Areas
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AN ORDINANCE OF THE MAYOR AND CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF MIAMI BEACH, FLORIDA, AMENDING CHAPTER 82 OF THE MIAMI BEACH CITY CODE, ENTITLED “PUBLIC PROPERTY,” BY AMENDING ARTICLE III, ENTITLED “USE OF PUBLIC PROPERTY,” BY AMENDING DIVISION 1, ENTITLED “GENERALLY,” BY CREATING SECTION 82-74 THEREOF, ENTITLED “PLASTIC-RELATED OR METALLIZED DECORATIONS PROHIBITED AT PUBLIC MARINAS, MARINE FACILITIES, PARKS, AND BEACHES,” IN ORDER TO DETER HARMFUL LITTERING AND PROTECT MARINE AND COASTAL WILDLIFE; AND, PROVIDING FOR REPEALER, SEVERABILITY, CODIFICATION AND AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
Sponsors
Detailed Information
Cached: 1 week agoOrdinances - R5 I
COMMISSION MEMORANDUM
9:45 a.m. Second Reading Public Hearing
RECOMMENDATION
BACKGROUND/HISTORY
ANALYSIS
The attached Ordinance was prepared at the request of Commissioner Alex J. Fernandez. The proposed Ordinance was approved on First Reading at the September 3, 2025, City Commission meeting. No changes have been made between First and Second Reading.
The City has been consistent in its commitment to protect its marine environment and wildlife. Items such as glitter, tinsel, plastic or metallized confetti, sequins, synthetic flower petals, and mylar streamers are lightweight, easily dispersed, and often end up as litter on beaches, parks, and waterways. These materials break down into microplastics that persist for years, harm marine life, and are nearly impossible to remove.
Public beaches, marinas, and marine facilities are especially vulnerable to this pollution, which threatens sensitive species like nesting sea turtles and shorebirds. Non-plastic alternatives, such as reusable décor, natural fibers, and compostable materials, are readily available.
The Proposed Ordinance would amend Article III of Chapter 82 to prohibit the use or possession of plastic-related decorative materials in outdoor public spaces. This proposal builds on Ordinance No. 2024-4590, which banned balloons in similar areas, and aligns with Florida Statute 403.161 prohibiting pollution harmful to people, wildlife, and property.
FISCAL IMPACT STATEMENT
N/A
Does this Ordinance require a Business Impact Estimate? Yes (FOR ORDINANCES ONLY)
If applicable, the Business Impact Estimate (BIE) was published on: 9/5/2025 See BIE at: https://www.miamibeachfl.gov/city-hall/city-clerk/meeting-notices/
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
CONCLUSION
Applicable Area
Citywide
Is this a “Residents Right to Know” item, pursuant to City Code Section 2-17?
Is this item related to a G.O. Bond Project?
No
No
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
City Attorney
Sponsor(s)
Commissioner Alex Fernandez Commissioner David Suarez
Co-sponsor(s)
Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez
Condensed Title
9:45 a.m. 2nd Rdg, Prohibit Plastic/Metallized Decorations at Marinas/Parks. (AF/DS/KRG) CA
Previous Action (For City Clerk Use Only)
First Reading Public Hearing on 9/3/2025 - R5 Q