City of North Myrtle Beach Laws, Rules & Beach Regulations

While many beach rules are similar to neighboring communities, visitors should pay close attention to seasonal restrictions on dogs, shade devices, surfing and beach equipment.

Dogs & Pets

Dogs are not permitted on the beach between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from May 15 through Labor Day.

Outside those hours, dogs are welcome on the beach but must remain on a leash no longer than 7 feet, and owners are required to immediately clean up after their pets.

Tents, Umbrellas & Shade Devices

From May 15 through Labor Day, only traditional beach umbrellas are allowed.

Umbrellas must:

• Have a center pole no taller than 7 feet, 6 inches
• Be no larger than 9 feet in diameter
• Be placed so they do not interfere with lifeguards or pedestrian traffic

The following are not permitted during this period:

• Beach tents
• Canopies
• Tarps
• Pavilions
• Sports umbrellas
• Shading devices with sides

Outside the summer restriction period, larger shade devices are generally permitted provided they do not create hazards or block access.

Alcohol, Glass & Fireworks

Alcoholic beverages are not permitted on the beach.

Glass bottles and containers are prohibited.

Fireworks are prohibited on the beach and elsewhere within the city except for professionally permitted displays.

Fires & Grilling

Bonfires, campfires and grills are not permitted on the public beach.

Beach Equipment

Beach chairs, umbrellas, tents and other personal belongings may not be left on the beach between 7:00 p.m. and 8:00 a.m.

Items left overnight may be removed.

Swimming, Surfing & Water Sports

For public safety:

• Swimmers may not go farther than 50 yards from shore or beyond shoulder depth.
• Surfing and skimboarding are prohibited between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. from May 15 through Labor Day, except in designated surfing areas.
• Surfboards are prohibited within 300 feet of any fishing pier.
• Surfers must use a board leash.
• Always obey lifeguards and beach warning flags.

Wildlife, Dunes & Protected Areas

North Myrtle Beach’s dunes provide critical protection from storms and are home to important native vegetation.

Visitors may not:

• Walk through or climb over sand dunes
• Damage dune fencing
• Pick or damage sea oats
• Disturb nesting sea turtles or shorebirds
• Remove or damage dune vegetation

Always use designated beach access walkways.

Trash & Beach Cleanup

Please leave the beach cleaner than you found it.

Littering is prohibited and may carry fines of up to $1,000.

If you dig a hole in the sand, fill it in completely before leaving to help prevent injuries and protect nesting sea turtles.

Parking

Only park in designated parking spaces.

Do not block:

• Beach access points
• Fire lanes
• Emergency vehicle routes
• Private driveways

Always observe posted parking signs and time limits.

Noise & Public Conduct

Please be respectful of nearby residents and fellow beachgoers.

Excessive noise, disorderly conduct and behavior that creates a public disturbance may violate city ordinances.

Emergency Information

For emergencies, call 911 immediately.

If you’re on the beach, notify the nearest lifeguard tower or Beach Patrol officer. They can begin responding while emergency personnel are dispatched.

Official Resources

• North Myrtle Beach Beach Laws
• North Myrtle Beach Police Department
• City of North Myrtle Beach