Dear spring breakers, locals and tourists alike, before you break out your favorite comfy beach chairs, picnic blankets and favorite games, please make sure you’re not breaking the rules.
The following ordinances are enforced by the Isle of Palms Police Department. To report the following offenses, call the Isle of Palms non-emergency number at (843) 886-6522.
NO LITTERING
Do not litter. Please take trash to the garbage and recycling containers found on each beach access path. Help us keep the beach clean so that you and others may enjoy it for many years to come!
The use of glass, single-use plastic bags, plastic straws, polystyrene (also known as Styrofoam) coolers, cups and food containers and balloons is prohibited on the beach. Residents and visitors are encouraged to use reusable, recyclable and compostable products when enjoying the Isle of Palms beach.
Glass bottles and alcoholic beverages are prohibited on the beach.
Citizens that don’t comply may be issued a $100 fine per offense.
NO SMOKING
Smoking cigarettes, cigars, pipes or other smoking devices used for the purpose of inhaling and exhaling smoke, such as vaping devices, is prohibited on the Isle of Palms beach and beach access paths.
The ordinance includes vaping, describing smoking as “the inhaling, exhaling, burning, lighting or carrying of a lighted cigarette, cigar, pipe or similar device” and includes a definition of smoking materials as “cigars, cigarettes and all other manner of smoking devices intended to be used for the purpose of inhaling and exhaling smoke.”
Smoking is permitted in private residences, private property, such as a vehicle and the public right-of-way. It does not prohibit the sale of smoking materials within city limits.
For smoking in an area where smoking is prohibited, citizens may be issued a fine between $10 and $25.
NO FIREWORKS
Fireworks and open fires are strictly prohibited.
NO MOTORSPORTS
Motorized vehicles, including golf carts, are not allowed on the beach.
Electric vehicles, including electric bikes and skateboards are not allowed on the beach between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Jet skis and motorboats may not be operated in designated swimming areas.
DON’T DIG HOLES
Fill holes dug in sand before you leave the beach. Large holes pose a threat to sea turtles and humans. Sea turtles do not have the ability to back up or the strength to climb out of holes without help. They often die if they fall into one head first.
NO BIG GROUPS
Gatherings of over 50 people on public property, including the beach and beach access paths require a permit.
Commercial business is prohibited on the beach.
DON’T DISTURB THE TURTLES
Sea turtles are an endangered species. Do not interfere with them in any way.
STAY OFF THE DUNES
Sand dunes are protected and fragile. Beach sea oats and grass help protect the dunes. Please use the designated beach access paths and help us protect our dunes.
For more information about all IOP city rules and regulations, visit iop.net. FAST AND SIMPLE ON OUR APP
By Staff Report
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