Myrtle Beach Prepares for Fourth of July Celebrations with Fireworks Regulations and Salute from the Shore

Myrtle Beach is set to kick off its Fourth of July celebrations with the return of the Salute from the Shore tradition, honoring the armed forces through a unique aerial display. This year’s event will take place on July 4, beginning at 1 p.m. The synchronized flight will start in Cherry Grove and conclude in Beaufort, showcasing F-16s and vintage warbirds to pay tribute to military personnel.

As families flock to the coastal area for the festivities, approximately 80% of hotels and vacation rentals are already booked for the holiday week, with peak nights reaching over 90% capacity. Visitors are reminded to be mindful of local regulations concerning fireworks as they celebrate Independence Day.

Fireworks Regulations in Myrtle Beach and Beyond

In Myrtle Beach, fireworks are permitted on private property between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. on July 4, extending the hours until 12:30 a.m. on July 5. However, there are restrictions in place; fireworks are banned within 500 feet of churches, hospitals, or schools, and within 300 feet of gas stations or flammable businesses. Additionally, fireworks are illegal on all beaches in unincorporated Horry County and within the city limits of North Myrtle Beach.

Conway, in contrast, allows the use of fireworks from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on July 4, similarly adhering to rules aligned with those of Myrtle Beach. Both Surfside Beach and Pawleys Island have enacted complete prohibitions on fireworks.

Safety Precautions and Enforcement

To ensure a safe environment during the Independence Day festivities, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has provided guidelines for fireworks safety. Pet owners have also been advised by PETA to take precautions to keep pets safe from the noise and potential distress caused by fireworks.

Additionally, Myrtle Beach Police will enforce a stricter curfew for minors aged 17 and under during the holiday weekend, starting at 10 p.m. and lasting through July 7. The police force is also enhancing security measures to maintain public safety during the busy holiday season.

Traffic Management and Event Logistics

Heavy traffic is anticipated around the Grand Strand, particularly on highways leading to popular event locations. North Myrtle Beach will implement parking prohibitions in certain areas during its free fireworks show on July 4. Road closures and traffic management measures are scheduled for various holiday events, with roadways such as Church Street, Kings Highway, Ocean Boulevard, South Carolina Highway 9, Surfside Drive, and U.S. Route 501 expected to experience congestion.

Surfside Beach will close streets for its Fourth of July Golf Cart Parade from 10:30 a.m. to noon, emphasizing the need for attendees to plan accordingly. Fireworks shows are scheduled at various venues along the Grand Strand, including notable locations like North Myrtle Beach and Broadway at the Beach.

Community Guidelines for Fireworks

Retailers stress the importance of understanding local fireworks laws and regulations to ensure compliance and safety during the celebrations. As the community gears up for this year’s festivities, residents and visitors alike are encouraged to respect the regulations in place to preserve a joyous and safe atmosphere for all.