Folly Beach passes first reading on ordinance to ban smoking on beach

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) - Folly Beach City Council has passed the first reading of an ordinance to ban smoking on the beach.

Tuesday night’s vote to ban smoking was the first time council took on the issue. It will need one more reading before going into effect. Lawmakers say this is about more than just the act of smoking.

Council Member Amy Ray, who is behind this proposed ordinance, said cigarette butts are the primary source of litter on Folly Beach.

The ban would cover all beach property including beach accesses, but lawmakers say smoking would be defined as smoking, carrying or holding a smoking product.

Although littering is already against the law, Ray said the ordinance would make a big difference in minimizing beach pollution.

Penalties would start at $25 for the first offense, but officials say the fines double for the second and third offense.

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