Beaufort County boat ramps reopen today. Here are the rules for the water
Beaufort County boaters are free to hit the water again, though authorities say any congregating will be policed.
Gov. Henry McMaster ordered Thursday that public boat ramps could reopen to recreational boating. The ramps had been closed due to concerns of spreading coronavirus after reports of large groups partying on sandbars.
Ramps reopened in Beaufort County at noon Friday, the Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office said. Here are the rules in place to ensure boaters keep their distance:
- No more than two people can be in a boat, unless it’s family members who live in the same house.
- Boats must keep moving, unless anchored to fish or in an emergency.
- Gathering at sandbars isn’t allowed. Boats can’t beach on sandbars, islands, riverbanks or lake shores.
- Public beaches, piers and docks remain closed except for commercial fishing for those with valid credentials.
Sheriff’s Office Marine Patrol officers and S.C. Department of Natural Resources officers will be out enforcing the rules, Sheriff’s Office Maj. Bob Bromage said.
“It only becomes an offense when you tell a group to disperse and they don’t,” Bromage said. “Clearly people are by and large following recommendations and social distancing.”
As authorities began restricting beach access in March, large groups were still reported on sandbars in Beaufort and Bluffton. McMaster ordered public ramps closed on March 30.
In opening the ramps again Thursday, he said being on the water was a way many families get fresh air and time outdoors together.
“it is a small step, and there will be more,” McMaster said.
This story was originally published April 17, 2020 at 11:10 AM.
