Message from the Mayor: Update on COVID-19 Mandates and Guidelines

The most notable change as a result of the vaccine and CDC guidance is the rescindment of the facial covering requirement. First for businesses and private property by the Governor’s Executive Order 21-102, and most recently by CDC recommendation for those vaccinated. According to the CDC’s new guidance, fully vaccinated people can resume activities without wearing a mask or physically distancing. On May 13, Miami-Dade County announced that facial coverings are no longer mandated on County property, and after careful consideration we followed suit on May 22.

City operations have also been revised due to the State, County, and CDC’s new direction. We suspended health screenings for visitors and employees, and visitors are no longer required to wear a facial covering at City facilities. However, we still strongly encourage our visitors, whether vaccinated or not, to remain vigilant and be considerate of those who may not yet be vaccinated by wearing a facial covering. We are also reinstating some activities that were previously restricted, including returning to in-person Commission Meetings, expanding program offerings, and increasing the frequency of our special events.

As stated in the Governor’s Executive Order, we cannot enforce any previous guidelines and restrictions for local businesses. It is now up to the business to determine how they will enforce COVID-19 safety measures such as facial coverings and social distancing. But we encourage and expect all businesses to continue being conscientious in their practices. Please take note of business regulations prior to visiting their establishment as many may still require facial coverings and social distancing.

Though requirements and enforcement may not be in place anymore, we continue to promote best practices to keep our community safe. We strongly encourage the entire Sunny Isles Beach community to remain vigilant in your safety practices because the threat of COVID-19 is still real and present. We must be conscious of those in our community who may not feel comfortable returning to normal and those who have not yet been vaccinated.

If you have not received the COVID-19 vaccine and are eligible, get vaccinated. The vaccine is our best shot at curtailing the risk of COVID-19 and completely returning to our normal lives. For more information and to find the nearest vaccination site, visit sibfl.net/vaccines.

Much like the past year has been, this situation remains fluid and we will continue to provide regular updates. I ask all residents, businesses, and visitors to be responsible, do your part, and help keep our city safe.