By Robert C. Solera, Community Development Director

The temporary closure for renovation of the historic Fishing Pier at Pier Park, 16501 Collins Avenue, has left residents and visitors without their favorite fishing spot and wondering if there is anywhere else to fish in Sunny Isles Beach.

As an option the City of Sunny Isles Beach allows fishing in the Intracoastal under the 163rd Street Bridge at Bella Vista Bay Park. There is ample parking for residents and visitors and, for now, parking in this area is free.

Due to the possibility of hooks, lines and other fishing equipment injuring swimmers or sea birds, fishing is not allowed in the Atlantic Ocean from the beach. The other reason is that bait and shiny fishing equipment could attract larger sea species closer to shore posing a danger to children, teenagers and adults that are swimming in the area.

The Code Enforcement Division enforces Section 108-4 of the City’s Code of Ordinances 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.

The Code Enforcement Division coordinates the enforcement of this ordinance with the Police Department as well the Cultural and Human Services Ocean Rescue staff.

The Community Development Department has sent letters to each one of the Hotels and Condominium Associations along the East side of Collins Avenue reminding them of these guidelines. The life guards are distributing courtesy notices to all those citizens and visitors that are found in violation of the Ordinance. Under Section 108-5, the Community Development Department may impose a civil penalty to violators in the amount of $250.00.

Did you know?

• Fishing is prohibited from any of our beach areas.
• Section 108 states that: 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 open again, feel free to fish in the Intracoastal Waterway at Bella Vista Bay Park located under the 163 Street Bridge.

Direct any questions to the Community Development Department, Code Enforcement Division at 305.792.1705.