Miami-Dade Commissioners passed an ordinance Tuesday that prohibits the use of Styrofoam at county parks and beaches beginning in 2017.
The item passed with a vote of 11-1.
The ordinance prohibits Styrofoam from being brought onto parks, beaches, marinas and any area operated by the Miami-Dade County Parks and Recreation Department.
Commissioners said the material is a proven carcinogen that clogs storm drains and hurts wildlife. The legislation calls for a yearlong publicity campaign to explain the new rules and a potential $50 fine after the first year for individuals who bring the material into parks and beaches.
Miami-Dade County joins several other local cities in prohibiting Styrofoam on parks and beaches including Miami Beach, Key Biscayne, Surfside and Bal Harbour.
