Myrtle Beach Discusses Potential Update to Beach Shade Rules Amid Safety Concerns

Myrtle Beach Considers Changes to Beach Shade Regulations

On a sunny afternoon here in Myrtle Beach, the Beach Advisory Committee gathered for an important meeting that could change the way we enjoy our sandy shores during the bustling summer months. The focus? The possibility of allowing wind-driven beach shades, a hot topic among beachgoers and business owners alike.

Current Regulations

As it stands, Myrtle Beach has some strict rules when it comes to beach shading. From Memorial Day to Labor Day, only circular umbrellas—no more than seven-and-a-half feet in diameter—are permitted. Not only that, but these umbrellas must align or sit behind the lifeguard’s line of umbrellas, making it a bit tricky for those trying to stake their claim on the perfect sunbathing spot. With tens of thousands of visitors flocking to the beach each summer, finding a way to stay cool and comfortable is crucial for everyone!

Safety Concerns

But, not everyone is on board with the idea of adding new types of shades to the mix. Myrtle Beach’s police and fire departments have expressed concerns about safety and visibility when introducing other shading devices alongside traditional umbrellas. This is where the experts come in!

Voices in the Room

Dane Barnes, the crafty co-creator of Shibumi Shades, was present at the meeting to tackle some of these safety worries head-on. Prior to the gathering, he had conducted visibility tests that purportedly showed no safety issues. “You can see through a Shibumi Shade much easier compared to a traditional umbrella,” said Barnes, making a strong case for his design. And he wasn’t alone; Paul James, the co-creator of Solbello Shades, also weighed in, sharing that his product is designed for safety and ease of use. “Our shades are much safer than the regular traditional umbrella,” he stated confidently.

Committee Deliberations

After a thorough discussion, the committee ultimately decided to recommend no changes to the existing ordinance. Their main reasoning stemmed from the safety concerns highlighted by first responders. “We’re disappointed,” Barnes shared, pointing out that there wasn’t a lot of solid evidence presented addressing safety issues. James echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that their designed shades mitigate most safety hazards. “That’s why we created the shade for better visibility, faster setup, and it’s not going to fly down the beach like a regular umbrella,” he explained.

What’s Next?

The committee might have just made a recommendation, but the final decision lies with the city council. Mark your calendars for November 5, when the council plans to hold a workshop to discuss the recommendation further. Both Barnes and James have announced plans to attend, eager to persuade the council about the potential of their innovative shading devices.

For Now…

As of now, wind-driven shades are only allowed on the beach from Labor Day to Memorial Day. While summer 2024 may not see any changes, there is still hope on the horizon. So, for all of you beach lovers out there, stay tuned because it looks like there’s still a conversation happening around how we can enjoy our beautiful beach days while keeping cool in the shade!

Let’s see what the future holds for our beloved Myrtle Beach and how we’ll adapt to the always-changing shoreline vibe!