Small town of Folly Beach restricting access

Folly Beach City Council voted unanimously to restrict access effective Friday at 2 p.m. Beach access will be restricted between 6 a.m. and 8 p.m. through March 31, according to the newly-passed ordinance.

City leaders say a checkpoint will be set up on the James Island side of Little Oak Island Drive.

Under the ordinance:

• Residents and property owners must bring two forms of identification showing residency or ownership, including driver’s license, utility bill, deed, tax bill, lease, etc.
• Caretakers, including child care, family members or medical caretakers must have a pass. Residents may pick up caretaker passes from City Hall on Center Street. Pick up hours will be 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday; Noon to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday. Outside of those hours, residents and property owners may call 843-588-7006 for caretaker access. Residents may be required to leave a message and are asked to be patient as city staff handles a very high call volume.
• Guests of residents may only enter with residents in the same vehicle through the checkpoint. The city cannot issue passes or maintain a list of guests.
• Holders of a short-term rental contract or hotel booking must show a booking confirmation or rental contract at the checkpoint.
• Employees of local businesses must have previously-issued red or yellow reentry pass issued by the City and employee credentials.
• Contractors or businesses must have a Folly Beach Business License vehicle sticker.
• Property managers, realtors, and brokers must have proof of state license and City of Folly Beach business license and related industry.
• Delivery persons must demonstrate business on the island at the checkpoint (including pharmacy, FedEx, UPS, Amazon and food delivery) by showing delivery address and goods at the checkpoint.