Myrtle Beach Upholds Beach Umbrella-Only Policy Amid Calls for Change

Myrtle Beach Beach Shade Rules: Umbrellas Still Reign Supreme

My, oh my! If you had hopes of enjoying something a little different than the traditional beach umbrella this summer in _Myrtle Beach_, you might want to rethink those plans. During a recent city council workshop, leaders decided that the rules surrounding beach shading devices will remain as they are—only allowing beach umbrellas from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Yup, you heard that right!

The Umbrella-only Rule Continues

Back in 2014, the city of Myrtle Beach made it official: umbrellas are the only shade option acceptable at the beach during the peak summer season. Items like tents and those trendy _Shibumi Shades_ just can’t catch a break during the crowded hot months. Sure, you can use them before Memorial Day and after Labor Day, but right now, it’s strictly umbrellas for all beachgoers. And don’t you dare forget it!

Some advocates from companies selling these wind-driven shading devices have been knocking on the city’s door, asking for a change to this ordinance. One spokesperson pointed out that Myrtle Beach is the only major beach from Maryland to Mexico that doesn’t allow such devices during the summer months. That’s quite the title to hold!

What Happened at the Workshop

During the workshop, there were quite a few voices discussing whether to give wind-driven shading devices a shot through a trial period in the summer of 2025. Sounds like a fun idea, right? However, city officials expressed a plethora of concerns. They cited worries about public safety, the potential for increased crowds, and the challenge of enforcing these new rules.

Linda Mockbee, a local resident, jumped into the discussion, advocating for the Shibumi Shades. “I’ve seen folks buy these pricey umbrellas from beach supply stores and the moment the wind kicks up, things go haywire! They get lifted up or blown away, and it turns into a chaotic scene where people are chasing after their umbrellas!” she exclaimed. Linda might have a point—who wants to be worrying about runaway umbrellas while trying to relax?

Safety on the Agenda

Adding to the conversation was Battalion Chief Brian Mitchell from the Myrtle Beach Fire Department’s Ocean Rescue team. He warned that trying out a trial period could lead to confusion among beachgoers. “For years we have educated visitors about this ordinance, and suddenly changing it could throw a wrench in that understanding. Plus, our police and rescue personnel might be spending more time ensuring compliance instead of keeping an eye on beach safety,” he noted.

City Council’s Consensus

Despite the spirited discussions, no formal votes were cast during the workshop. But the council seemed to come to a leap of understanding. Council members like Bethune, Gregg Smith, Mike Chestnut, and Mike Lowder felt it was best to keep things as they are for the time being. On the flip side, council members Debbie Conner, Jackie Hatley, and Bill McClure were eager to dig deeper into the research surrounding shading devices.

So, for now, it looks like the latest news on beach shading is a clear one: Bring your beach umbrellas, but leave those Shibumi Shades at home until at least the fall! As always, stay tuned for updates as Myrtle Beach navigates these beachy waters.