The Beach Vehicle Operation Restriction Act aims to prohibit the operation of vehicles on South Carolina beaches, with specific exceptions for authorized governmental employees. The bill introduces a new section, 16-17-780, which states that no person, except for authorized governmental employees, may operate any type of vehicle on the beaches. Violators of this provision will face misdemeanor charges, with escalating fines and imprisonment for repeat offenses. Additionally, the bill adds section 48-39-370, which allows authorized governmental employees to operate certain types of vehicles on the beaches for work-related duties, but restricts this operation during peak beach hours from May 1 to October 1.

The legislation specifies that during the restricted hours, only all-terrain vehicles, utility-terrain vehicles, golf carts, and similar vehicles may be used by authorized employees, with exceptions for first responders in emergencies. Local governments that violate these provisions may face financial penalties related to beach projects, and employees who breach the rules could also incur criminal penalties as outlined in section 16-17-780. The act is set to take effect on July 1, 2025.

Statutes affected:
12/05/2024: 16-17-780, 48-39-370
Latest Version: 16-17-780, 48-39-370
12/06/2024: 16-17-780, 48-39-370