Rules about Pets and Animals in Myrtle Beach

The City of Myrtle Beach now prohibits animals of any kind in the downtown area from March 1 through September 30.  Pets and other exotic animals (boa constrictors, ferrets, iguanas) in the heavily populated Pavilion area were causing quite a stir with other pedestrians. The law was passed to regulate any accidents or incidents caused by the animals.

Dogs:

From May 15 to September 15, dogs are allowed on the beach only before 9:00 a.m. and after 5:00 p.m. Between September 15 and May 15, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of day. Of course, you are required to clean up after your dog at all times.  

If you are on the beach between 21st Avenue N. and 13th Avenue S. the law is from March 1 (not May 1) through September 30.

Garden City, South Strand campgrounds and the Shore Drive area between Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach, are under the jurisdiction of Horry County, pets are not allowed on the beach between 9 AM and 6 PM from June 1 through September 1.

Regardless of area, dogs must be on a leash no longer than 7 feet.  Owners of dogs found running loose may be fined up to $200.00 depending upon the area.

Horses:
Horseback riding on the beach is allowed from the third Saturday in November until the end of February each year, subject to the rules listed below. No permit is required.


1. Not more than six horses and riders are to be in a single group at one time.
2. Riding across or on any sand dune is prohibited.
3. Access to the beach will be from Myrtle Beach State Park.
4. There will be no parking of horse trailers or staging on the public rights-of-way.
5. All riders will be required to clean up after their horses in all areas landward of the mean high tide line.