News Summary

Hilton Head Island has introduced new parking fees for beach lot access. Effective immediately, these rates apply to both residents and non-residents. Weekday rates are set at $3 per hour for non-residents, while weekends will incur a flat rate of $20. Notably, Coligny Beach remains exempt from these charges. The town has also appointed Parking Ambassadors to assist with information on the new fees, while actual enforcement will be handled by community code enforcement officers, ensuring compliance with regulations.

Hilton Head Island Implements New Parking Fees at Beaches

Hilton Head Island has introduced new parking fees for beach lots effective immediately, affecting both resident and non-resident beach-goers.

Parking Fee Structure

• Weekday Rates: Non-residents will pay $3 per hour.
• Weekend Rates: A flat fee of $20 applies, regardless of stay duration.
• Locations: Previously free parks include Alder Lane, Driessen, Fish Haul, Folly Field, and Islanders beach parks.
• Exempt Beach: Coligny Beach remains free from these new charges.
• Convenience Fee: An additional fee will be added to the parking rates.

Parking Ambassadors and Enforcement

To assist with the new fee structure, “Parking Ambassadors” have been deployed. Parking Control Inc. (PCI) will manage staffing at the beach parking sites, but PCI employees do not have the authority to issue parking tickets.

• The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office has ruled that municipalities cannot delegate parking enforcement to private entities, prompting this approach.
• Violations of the parking regulations may result in fines ranging from $50 to $500.
• Hilton Head’s community code enforcement officers will handle parking enforcement, not PCI.
• PCI employees are equipped with an app to verify payment status and resident permits.

Operational Details

Some PCI staff will remain stationary, while others will rotate between parking lots based on vehicle volume. This system aims to ensure effective monitoring without the risk of costly lawsuits seen in other municipalities that implemented private enforcement models.

The town of Hilton Head Island is committed to creating a streamlined and efficient parking experience for all beach-goers while minimizing potential legal challenges.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

HERE Resources

Hilton Head Island Implements New Beach Parking Fees
Hilton Head Island Enhances Fire Safety for Rentals
Hilton Head Council Moves to Regulate Short-Term Rentals
Coligny Beach Named Home to Bluest Waters in South Carolina
Daufuskie Island Ferry Service Controversy Escalates
Hilton Head Considers Increasing Beach Parking Fees Amid Community Concerns
Big Changes Ahead for Beach Parking in Hilton Head Island

Additional Resources

• Island Packet: New Parking Fees in Hilton Head
• Wikipedia: Parking Meters
• AOL: Parking Ambassadors and Enforcement in Hilton Head
• Google Search: Hilton Head parking fees
• WTOC: Hilton Head Beach Parking Fees
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Municipal Law
• Island Packet: Parking Regulations Update
• Google News: Hilton Head parking regulations