BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. – With summer around the corner and boat ramps already bustling, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office is putting its foot down on bad behavior at public boat landings.
Berkeley County Council recently enacted a new ordinance aimed at curbing overcrowding, littering, public intoxication, disorderly conduct, parking issues, and other unsafe activities at the county’s increasingly popular water access sites.
The move comes as residents and law enforcement raise concerns over what they describe as “chaotic” and sometimes dangerous conditions at local ramps.
“This ordinance is about protecting our natural spaces while ensuring our boat landings remain safe and accessible for everyone,” said Berkeley County Sheriff Duane Lewis. “We want to preserve the intended use of these sites and ensure they are available for generations to come.”
Prohibited Activities:
Under the new ordinance, a wide range of behaviors is now off-limits at public landings:
- Alcohol and illegal drug use
- Fireworks
- Disorderly conduct
- Loitering
- Unauthorized social events
- Loud music is banned at public landings
In addition to crowd control, the ordinance targets water safety. Swimming, jet skiing, or windsurfing within 50 feet of docks or ramps is now banned. Fishing from launch areas while boats are coming or going? That’s a no-go, too.
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Parking is also getting a serious overhaul. Vehicles parked for more than 24 hours—or those that aren’t tied to boat use or active fishing—may be ticketed or even towed. Unregistered vehicles and vessels are not allowed, and anything left for over 48 hours could be considered abandoned.
What Happens If You Break the Rules?
Violators could face fines of up to $500 and possibly up to 30 days in jail. Parking tickets must be paid within 30 days, or additional penalties may follow.
Deputies and code enforcement officers will step up patrols to ensure compliance, county officials say.
Why Now?
Berkeley County has seen a spike in population and recreation activity in recent years. While that’s a sign of growth, it’s also created strain on public spaces—especially boat ramps, where fights over parking, safety concerns, and complaints about loud parties have become more frequent.
Officials say the ordinance is designed not to punish but to protect access for everyone.
The ordinance highlights that public boat landings are meant mainly for launching and retrieving boats, along with low-impact activities like fishing, walking, and observing wildlife. The new rules aim to strike a balance between public enjoyment, safety, environmental protection, and fair access for all, county officials added.
The Bigger Picture
The county’s efforts reflect a broader trend across the U.S., where local governments are stepping in to regulate heavily trafficked recreational areas. As communities grow, the challenge becomes balancing public enjoyment with conservation and safety.
For now, Berkeley County is asking residents and visitors to learn the rules, respect the landings, and help keep the waterways open and safe for all.
