Myrtle Beach Wedding Rules: What You Need to Know

Dreaming of saying "I do" with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop? Beach weddings are a beautiful way to celebrate in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, but local rules vary depending on where you hold your ceremony. From permits and professional vendors to chairs and decorations, understanding the requirements ahead of time can help your special day go smoothly.

Wedding regulations differ between the City of Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach and unincorporated areas of Horry County. Before booking a beach ceremony, make sure you know which local government oversees your chosen location.

Can You Get Married on the Beach in Myrtle Beach?

Yes! Beach wedding ceremonies are allowed in the Myrtle Beach area, but the rules depend on the location and whether professional wedding services are involved. Some beaches allow only non-commercial ceremonies, while others permit professional weddings with specific requirements.

Here's what couples should know about planning a wedding on public beaches throughout the Grand Strand.

Wedding Rules in the City of Myrtle Beach

The City of Myrtle Beach distinguishes between commercial and non-commercial wedding ceremonies on its public beaches.

• Non-commercial weddings: Small ceremonies without paid professional services are permitted on public beaches.
• Commercial weddings: Commercially produced wedding ceremonies involving paid professional services are not permitted on the city's public beaches.
• Private beachfront property: Certain privately owned oceanfront properties may have different requirements. Couples should confirm property boundaries and permissions before planning a ceremony.
• Public parks: Some city parks may accommodate wedding ceremonies, although reservations, Facility Use Permits and other requirements can vary by location.

For couples interested in a professionally planned wedding, an oceanfront resort, private venue or approved park location may be a better option than a public beach.

For information about using city parks, contact the Myrtle Beach Parks Division at (843) 918-2338. Couples should confirm current requirements with the city before making arrangements.

Wedding Rules in North Myrtle Beach

North Myrtle Beach allows wedding ceremonies on its public beaches, including those involving professional wedding vendors. However, the city requires a wedding permit and has specific rules for ceremony setups.

Important North Myrtle Beach wedding regulations include:

• Wedding permit: A beach wedding permit is required, with a $25 permit fee.
• Professional vendors: Paid wedding planners, officiants, photographers and other vendors must have the appropriate City of North Myrtle Beach business licenses.
• Chairs and decorations: Wedding setups are limited to one portable arch, two small tables, 24 folding chairs and one battery-operated portable speaker.
• Public beach access: Wedding ceremonies cannot interfere with public beach use or emergency access. A specific beach location cannot be reserved exclusively for a wedding.
• Environmental protection: Dunes and vegetation must be protected. Only real rose petals or seashells may be scattered during the ceremony.
• Restricted activities: Wedding receptions and catering are prohibited on public beaches, along with tiki torches, sky lanterns and similar devices.

Couples should also consider parking, accessibility and the comfort of other beach visitors when choosing a ceremony location.

Visit the City of North Myrtle Beach Weddings and Vow Renewals page for current regulations, permit applications and additional information.

Wedding Rules in Unincorporated Horry County

Beach wedding rules are different in unincorporated areas of Horry County, which include some popular coastal locations outside municipal city limits.

Most smaller beach weddings do not require a Special Event Permit, provided the ceremony follows county guidelines. However, a permit is required for weddings involving:

• 500 or more participants
• 101 or more chairs
• A tent
• Activities or setups that do not meet county wedding guidelines

During the busy beach season, May 1 through Labor Day, additional restrictions apply:

• Weddings without chairs or other props may take place at other times of day.
• Weddings with chairs, arches, flower stands or other props may take place only after 5:00 p.m. Setup cannot begin before 5:00 p.m.
• Amplified sound is limited to a portable system used for the wedding ceremony.

Other important guidelines include keeping emergency beach access clear, staying off dunes, respecting lifeguard umbrella lines and using designated parking areas. Paid wedding service providers must also meet applicable Horry County business licensing requirements.

For complete regulations, visit the Horry County Beach Weddings information or contact Horry County Police Beach Patrol at (843) 915-7953.

Tips for Planning a Beach Wedding Ceremony

In addition to checking local regulations, a little preparation can make your beach wedding more enjoyable for everyone.

• Confirm your ceremony location: Make sure you know whether your chosen beach is within Myrtle Beach, North Myrtle Beach or unincorporated Horry County.
• Check permits and vendor requirements: Ask about permits, business licenses and restrictions before booking professional services.
• Plan around tides and weather: Review our Myrtle Beach tide chart and consider seasonal weather conditions when selecting your ceremony time.
• Respect the natural environment: Keep decorations, guests and equipment away from protected dunes and vegetation.
• Consider your guests: Think about parking, beach access, seating and mobility needs, especially for older guests or anyone who may have difficulty walking on sand.
• Have a backup plan: Coastal weather can change quickly. An indoor or covered alternative can help protect your celebration from unexpected rain or wind.

Frequently Asked Questions About Myrtle Beach Wedding Rules

Do you need a permit to get married on the beach in Myrtle Beach?

Permit requirements depend on the location. North Myrtle Beach requires a wedding permit, while most smaller ceremonies in unincorporated Horry County do not require a Special Event Permit if they meet county guidelines. The City of Myrtle Beach has separate restrictions on commercial and non-commercial ceremonies.

Can you have chairs and a wedding arch on the beach?

Chairs, arches and other ceremony decorations may be permitted depending on the location. North Myrtle Beach limits wedding setups to specific items and quantities, while unincorporated Horry County restricts the use of chairs and props before 5:00 p.m. during the busy beach season. Always confirm local requirements before arranging your setup.

Can you hire a professional photographer for a Myrtle Beach beach wedding?

Professional photography rules vary by location. Commercially produced weddings are not permitted on the City of Myrtle Beach's public beaches. North Myrtle Beach allows professional wedding services but requires applicable business licenses. Couples should verify the rules for their chosen ceremony location before hiring vendors.

Can you reserve a section of the beach for a wedding?

Public beaches are shared spaces, and wedding ceremonies generally do not provide exclusive use of a beach location. In North Myrtle Beach and unincorporated Horry County, other beachgoers retain the right to use public beach areas. Couples should plan accordingly and avoid blocking public access.

Plan Your Wedding at The Beach

Whether you envision an intimate oceanfront ceremony or an elegant celebration at a local venue, understanding the rules is an important part of wedding planning. Working with an experienced local wedding professional can also help you navigate the requirements for your chosen location.

Explore our Myrtle Beach Weddings and Honeymoons guide for wedding venues, accommodations, services and inspiration to help plan your special day.