MIAMI — The mayor of Miami Beach is proposing a ban on alcohol sales at sidewalk cafes, patios and open air bars in the wee hours of the morning.

Mayor Philip Levine outlined a proposal for city commissioners that would prohibit alcohol sales between 2 a.m. and 8 a.m. in outdoor areas. Currently the last call inside and outside is 5 a.m.

The Miami Herald reports that Police Chief Dan Oates considers late-night alcohol sales a catalyst for bad behaviour on South Beach.

Levine told commissioners that Ocean Drive, known for its busy nightlife, has deteriorated into a dangerous, terrible place.

Commissioners will consider the proposal next month.

Ocean’s 10 general manager Edouard Huc says the Ocean Drive Association considers the proposal too broad. They’ll meet next week to discuss.