News Summary

In response to newly imposed parking fees at public beaches, Hilton Head Island residents can now apply online for free parking permits. Eligible long-term residents can obtain up to two digital permits valid for the entire year, with restrictions for residents of Windmill Harbor and Blue Heron Point. The new fees, enforced during peak season, aim to improve beach maintenance and accessibility, despite concerns from local businesses about potential impacts on tourism.

Hilton Head Island Residents Eligible for Free Beach Parking Permits Amid New Fees

Hilton Head Island residents can now apply online for free parking permits in response to newly implemented parking fees at public beaches.

Key Details on Parking Permits

• Long-term residents may obtain up to two free parking permits.
• Eligibility requires living within town limits for at least 183 days a year.
• Golf carts are included in the permit, which is digital and valid from January 1 to December 31.
• Residents of Windmill Harbor and Blue Heron Point are not eligible for these permits.

New Parking Fees Overview

Parking fees have been implemented at nearly all public beaches during peak season:

• Fees are enforced daily from March 1 to September 7, between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m.
• Visitor parking costs $3 per hour, with a daily maximum of $15 on weekdays and a flat fee of $20 on weekends.

Application Process

To obtain a resident parking permit, individuals must:

• Provide a valid vehicle registration and proof of residency.
• Ensure golf carts are registered with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles.
• Note that short-term rental property owners cannot apply for a resident parking permit.

Future Planning and Accessibility

The Town Council approved these fees to enhance beach maintenance and accessibility. Notable plans include:

• Creation of an 89-space parking lot at Coligny Beach on the site of the former Aunt Chilada’s restaurant.
• Acquisition of the old Wild Wing Cafe property for potential additional parking.
• No new parking spaces will be added in 2024, with further evaluations to occur after the beach season.

As visitor numbers rise, town officials aim to improve parking management. However, local business leaders have expressed concerns about possible negative impacts of these parking fees on tourist traffic and business success.

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Additional Resources

• Island Packet: Hilton Head Island Residents Eligible for Free Beach Parking Permits
• Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
• WTOC: New Hilton Head Beach Parking Fees Begin Next Month
• Google Search: Hilton Head Island parking fees
• WJCL: New Free Parking at Coligny Beach
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
• Island Packet: Beach Parking Fee Changes
• Google News: Hilton Head Island new parking fees