SC/Horry County Laws

Swimming & Sun Bathing

Swimming is not permitted beyond 50 yards from the beach or over shoulder depth, unless otherwise stated by the lifeguard.
Jumping or diving from piers is prohibited.
Swimming within 50 yards of a pier is prohibited.
Only canvas/fabric rafts may be used in the ocean.
Rafts must be equipped with safety ropes.
Swimwear is subject to city ordinances in Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach, and Surfside Beach.
It is illegal for anyone to wear a thong bathing suit.

Boating & Surfing

It is illegal to use any equipment in a manner that would endanger bathers, swimmers, surfers, or others in the water.
Sailboats, motorboats, and Jet skis (or other personal watercraft) must remain at least 400 feet from the shoreline and 500 feet from any fishing pier, with the exception of entering or exiting the ocean.
Sailboats, motorboats, and Jet skis may not be launched or retrieved within 50 yards of a lifeguard stand, unless otherwise designated.

Fireworks

Possessing or discharging of fireworks is illegal within the city limits of municipalities along the Grand Strand.
All establishments that sell fireworks within Horry County are required to post in a conspicuous location rules and regulations regarding fireworks.

Driving On The Beach

It is unlawful for any person to drive or operate any motor vehicle on the beach or within public marsh areas.

Littering

Littering is illegal. Offenders may be required by law to assist officials in cleaning up the litter.
All glass containers are prohibited on the beach.

Campfires

It is illegal to build a fire or use a propane-fired grill or other cooker on the beach.

Sea Oats

It is illegal to cut, break, or otherwise destroy sea oat plants, beach grass, or sand fencing.

Animal Laws

Any animal on the beach must be on a hand-held leash not to exceed six feet in length and under the control of the person having custody of the animal.
Animals are not allowed on the beach from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. June 1-Sept. 1.
It is unlawful to ride a horse or other animal on the public beach or within pubic marsh areas within the county limits March 1- Oct. 31.

Sleeping on the Beach

Sleeping on the beach or at a beach access is not allowed between 9 p.m. and sunrise.

Alcohol

Possession or consumption of alcohol is prohibited on the beach.
Glass containers/bottles are not allowed on the beach.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal.
Penalties include a fine of more than $200 and loss of driving license both in South Carolina and the driver’s home state.
It is unlawful for any person under the age of 21 to buy, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages.
Open containers of beer, wine, or liquor are prohibited in vehicles or any public place including streets, sidewalks, and beach areas.
Store purchases of alcoholic beverages are prohibited from midnight Saturday through midnight Sunday.

Motorcycle Laws

DOT-Approved Helmets are required by law for riders and passengers under age 21.
State Funded Rider Education is not available, but private courses are.
Eye Protection is required by law for riders and passengers under age 21 unless equipped with windscreen.
Daytime (and obviously night time) Use of Headlight required by law - modulating headlights are permitted.
Passenger Seat and Footrests are required if carrying a passenger.
Passenger Age Restrictions: None
Helmet Speakers Restrictions: None
Mirrors are required by law on both the left and right side.
Radar Detectors: No restriction

Other State Laws

Seat belts must be worn at all times in a moving vehicle.
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal.
Penalties include a fine of more than $200 and loss of driving license both in South Carolina and the driver's home state.
It is unlawful for any person under the age of 21 to buy, possess, or consume alcoholic beverages.
Open containers of beer, wine, or liquor are prohibited in vehicles or any public place including streets, sidewalks, and beach areas.
Vehicle headlights must be on if operating windshield wipers due to rain or poor road conditions.
Motorcyclists are required to use headlights at all times.
All children ages 17 and younger in a moving vehicle must be restrained at all times by means appropriate for the child's age and seating location, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Right turns may be made on a red light throughout the state, except where a sign denotes "No Right on Red." Remember, stop before turning and give way to traffic already in the intersection.

It seems like an overwhelming list, but many of these regulations are common to beach areas. When deciding where to stay in Myrtle Beach, also consider the safety factors of your accommodations: location, security, and what other protective measures does this establishment take? Such amentities as 24 hour security, private parking, and gated access often provide guests with more enjoyment at the beach. Guests who stay at The Myrtle Beach Resort often compliment the comfort they feel by knowing there are guards patrolling at all times, a gated entrance, and speed bumps to prevent accidents.

Please have fun during your stay in Myrtle Beach, but also be aware of the rules and regulations. This will make your trip even more enjoyable!