Berkeley County cracks down on boat landing violations under new ordinance

Yahoo

2 days ago

BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD) — A new ordinance aimed at improving safety at public boat landings is now being enforced across Berkeley County, and deputies say the community is already seeing results.
The ordinance, which went into effect April 28, prohibits swimming within 50 feet of boat landings, alcohol consumption on site, blocking access to landings, and parking in trailer-designated spaces. Officials say those specific rules are designed to address ongoing concerns related to overcrowding, traffic congestion, and unsafe behavior.
Chief Deputy Jeremy Baker with the Berkeley County Sheriff's Office said the most common violations so far have involved parking and alcohol.
'Parking has been the number one violation that we've found,' Baker said. 'We have issued a lot of citations for improper parking at the boat landings. Hatchery Boat Landing was at capacity roughly four or five times where we were forced to close it.'
Alcohol is also strictly prohibited at all public boat landings, and enforcement of that rule includes deputies on foot monitoring behavior up close.
'We have deputies who are getting out, walking, and just observing people attempting to consume alcohol,' Baker explained.
The sheriff's office began enhanced enforcement efforts over Memorial Day weekend, deploying roughly 40 additional deputies in partnership with Santee Cooper law enforcement and the Department of Natural Resources. But Baker emphasized that the increased patrols are not limited to holiday weekends.
'This is going to be a consistent process through the entire summer and after the summer,' he said.
Officials say the stepped-up enforcement is in direct response to community complaints and safety risks at some of the county's busiest recreational access points.
'It is very aggravating at times if you're trying to launch a boat and it's too crowded, or there's no parking because of parking violations,' said Baker. 'I think overall, we've seen a lot of happy residents because of it.'
Local boaters like Davy Hite, who's been fishing and boating in the area for decades, say the new rules are necessary as crowds grow.
'You hate to have to have these strict rules, you want to go out and have a good time,' said Hite. 'But with population growth, I think it's real important to think about safety. With more people around these boat ramps, people swimming where boats are coming in and out, and use of alcohol and traffic, all those things, you just have to pay more attention.'
Hite also emphasized the importance of following parking guidelines, something the ordinance now enforces more strictly.
'If people aren't aware of the way they should be parked, maybe one boat and trailer can take up five or six spots,' he said. 'If you use the parking spaces like they've asked you to, then it's better for everyone.'
The sheriff's office has also launched a public awareness campaign, including a press conference and social media videos, to help residents and visitors understand the new rules.
Officials say feedback has been overwhelmingly positive so far, and they hope continued compliance will lead to safer and more enjoyable experiences for everyone.
Boaters are encouraged to review posted signage at boat landings and follow the ordinance to avoid citations and keep the areas open and safe for all.
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