Miami Beach enforces a Turtle Nesting Protection Ordinance (Chapter 46, Article V) that requires all beachfront and nearby properties to minimize artificial lighting visible from the beach during nesting season (April 1 - October 31). The 2024 update expanded requirements to include interior lighting in hotels and commercial buildings visible from the beach.
Miami Beach is a nesting ground for three protected sea turtle species: Loggerhead, Green, and Leatherback. Chapter 46, Article V of the City Code establishes the Turtle Nesting Protection Ordinance, originally adopted in 2006 and significantly strengthened in October 2024. The updated ordinance expands requirements beyond exterior lighting to include interior lights in hotels and commercial properties that are visible from the beach. During nesting season from April 1 through October 31, all exterior lighting visible from the beach must be either turned off, shielded to prevent light from reaching the beach, or use turtle-safe amber or red wavelength lighting (590nm or longer). The city's guidance is to keep lights low, long-wavelength, and shielded. Properties within the regulated zone must retrofit non-compliant fixtures. The nesting season begins April 1 to account for the earlier Leatherback nesting period. Light pollution disorients nesting adults and hatchlings, which instinctively navigate toward the brightest horizon, mistaking artificial light for the ocean's reflection of the night sky. The city runs a Flip the Switch awareness campaign and hosts an annual Turtle Fest educational event.
Violations of the turtle lighting ordinance are enforced by Code Compliance at (305) 673-7555. Fines up to $500 per day apply for non-compliant lighting during nesting season. Federal penalties under the Endangered Species Act may also apply for actions that harm protected sea turtles.
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