By Robert C. Solera, Community Development Director

The temporary closure of the Fishing Pier at Pier Park has left a number of residents and visitors without their favorite place to fish. Some folks think it is OK to fish from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean.

But fishing from the shore is not allowed because of the danger it poses to beach goers and wild life. Hooks, lines and other fishing equipment are left inadvertently by fishermen creating a dangerous situation. Swimmers and beach goes step on fishing hooks. Sea birds get entangled in fishing line.

Fishing is great fun. Swimming is as well and swimming does not pose a danger to others like fishing does. In addition, the fish bait attracts a number of bigger sea species that may also pose a danger to those swimming in the area.

The Community Development Department has received numerous complaints from concerned citizens about these issues. In coordination with the Police Department and the Cultural and Human Services Life Guards, the Community Development Department continues to enforce Section 108-4 that indicates the following:

• Except in designated areas, no person shall fish in the Atlantic Ocean by use of hook and line, seine, trap, spear gig or other device.

Our Department sent letters to each of the Hotels and Condominium Associations located along the East side of Collins Avenue reminding them of the guidelines. The Lifeguards distribute courtesy notices to all those citizens or visitors that are found in violation of the Ordinance and the Community Development Department under Section 108-5 may impose a civil penalty in the amount of $250.00.

As an option the City of Sunny Isles Beach allows fishing under the Sunny Isles Beach Blvd. bridge at Bella Vista Bay Park. This area has ample parking and, for now, the parking is free, as a parking meter has not yet been installed.

Did you know?

• Fishing is prohibited from any of our beach areas.
• Section 108-4…Except in designated areas, no person shall fish in the Atlantic Ocean by use of hook and line, seine, trap, spear gig or other device. Violators are subject to a minimum fine of $250.00.
• Until the Fishing Pier is re-opened, fishing in the Intracoastal Waterway is allowed at Bella Vista Bay Park (located under the Sunny Isles Blvd. bridge).