by the City of Myrtle Beach
Warm temperatures are officially here, which means more time on the beach. Here is a handy list of rules and regulations for beach-goers. The primary purpose of these laws is to protect everyone and preserve the beach itself.
Voluntary compliance is the goal, but violations of the following ordinances are misdemeanors. If you are cited, violations are subject to a fine of up to $500 and/or 30 days in jail, upon conviction.
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From May 1 through Labor Day, dogs are allowed on the beach before 10am and after 5pm. From the day after Labor Day to April 30 each year, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of day. However, at all times, dogs must be on a leash of seven feet or shorter and owners are responsible for picking up after them and properly disposing of the waste.
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Dogs and bicycles are allowed on the boardwalk from 5am-10am from May 1 through Labor Day. From the day after Labor Day to April 30 each year, dogs and bicycles are allowed on the boardwalk at any time. Again, dogs must be on a leash at all times and owner must pick up after them and properly dispose of the waste.
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It is illegal to disturb or damage the dunes, the sand fencing, or the sea grass and sea oats. Stay on the boardwalks and marked paths.
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Littering is illegal. Please use the trash and recycling containers provided.
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Alcohol is not allowed on the beach.
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Glass containers and bottles are not allowed on the beach.
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Metal detecting is allowed on the public beach, but not in the dunes, the street ends or any other public property.
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Commercial activity is prohibited on the public beach. Non-commercial weddings (where no one is being paid) are allowed without a permit. Commercial weddings are not allowed.
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It is illegal to discharge, sell, store, or possess fireworks within the city, including the beach. Fireworks displays by pyrotechnic professionals may be approved if permitted and supervised.
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All fires are prohibited on the beach, including barbecues and bonfires.
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Items may not be set up on the beach before 8am and must be removed from the beach by 7pm, daily.
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From Memorial Day through Labor Day, only circular umbrellas up to seven-and-a-half feet in diameter are allowed. From the day after Labor Day until Memorial Day, tents and canopies up to 12-by-12 square feet are allowed. Umbrellas must be in line with or behind the lifeguards’ line of umbrellas or landward of the mean high tide line. Tents and canopies, when allowed, must be 10 feet behind the umbrella line.
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Thong bathing suits are not allowed on the beach or in public.
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Paid parking is enforced from 9am to midnight, seven days a week, from March 1 through October 31. (A few meters may begin earlier, as posted.)
We hope you enjoy your visit to the beach. As the saying goes, please leave only footprints.
