Beach Rules

Ordinances are enforced by the Isle of Palms Police Department. The Isle of Palms non-emergency number is (843) 886-6522.

Litter

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.

A verbal warning may be issued, however, citizens that don’t comply may be issued a $100 fine per offense.

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.

Vehicles

Motorized vehicles, including golf carts, are not allowed on 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.

Dogs

Dogs are welcome on the beach at all times, but are subject to regulations.

All dogs that live or visit the City must be vaccinated against rabies and have a metal license tag attached to its collar with the name of the licensed veterinarian who provided the vaccine. Dog owners must also have a valid certificate of rabies vaccination readily available at all times.

Residents are encouraged to obtain a dog permit from the Isle of Palms Police Department. Call (843) 886-6522 or stop by the department, located at 30 JC Long Blvd.

Dog permits will be issued annually and are free of charge. Having a dog permit may facilitate the safe return of lost dogs.

Dogs must be on a leash, under voice command, and their owners must clean up after them. There are dog bag receptacles at most of the public beach access paths. Click here to read more about dogs on the beach.

Dogs are allowed on the beach, off a leash, during the following times:

Overnight

Overnight storage of beach equipment, such as tents, chairs, coolers, toys, etc., is prohibited. Personal property left unattended on the beach after sunset may be removed and disposed of.

No overnight sleeping on beach.

Natural Resources

Sea turtles are an endangered species. Do not interfere with them in any way.

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.

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.

Gatherings

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.

Fireworks

Fireworks and open fires are strictly prohibited.