Miami-Dade Ramps Open Today
During a news conference on Monday afternoon, Miami-Dade mayor Carlos Gimenez released details of a new executive order, outlining the rules and regulations for conduct when boating and waterways are re-opened today. The rules apply to all water-related activities including charter vessels, kayaking and canoeing, boat ramps, fish cleaning stations, fishing piers, public restrooms and ship stores.
Allowed Activities
All boats, including kayaks, canoes and paddleboards must remain 50’ apart at all times. Charter vessels are allowed to take customers. At city ramps, only one boat at a time can launch and the vessel must be prepared in advance. No loading the boat right next to the water. Personal watercraft can only have one rider.
Bait and tackle businesses and fuel docks are open, but social distancing must be observed and wear gloves when possible. Wash hands or use sanitizer after using a fuel pump. The same rules apply at fish cleaning stations and public restrooms, which are open.
Not Allowed
Irresponsible gathering and congregating by boaters at popular South Florida hotspots like Stiltsville and at Haulover Sandbar, Nixon Beach Sandbar, Monument Island and others will not be allowed. This includes anchoring, rafting up and beaching.
Gimenez said that enforcement of the new rules is “the key.” He added, “If people are not obeying the rules, they will be escorted out and subject to a fine of $500. It will be zero tolerance for people not following the rules.”
On the Facebook page, “Open the Boat Ramps and the Marinas/Fuel Docks,” many of the 3,228 members are asking that their fellow boaters obey the rules and not “blow it for everyone else.”