Updated Beach Rules for South Walton Beach – 2024
The beautiful beaches of South Walton on Florida’s Emerald Coast attract visitors year-round. To help preserve the natural beauty of the area and ensure the safety and enjoyment of all beachgoers, Walton County enforces several beach rules that everyone should follow. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a regular beachgoer, here’s an updated guide to the South Walton Beach Rules for 2024.
1. Tents & Beach Setups
As of April 1st, tents or canopies larger than 6x6 feet are prohibited on public beaches. Larger tents can obstruct Gulf views, become safety hazards in windy conditions, and leave behind debris. While you might still see larger tents on occasion, they are only allowed on private beaches. Remember to follow this rule to avoid fines and help keep the beach clean and safe for everyone.
2. Bonfires on the Beach
Planning a bonfire on the beach? You must obtain a permit from the South Walton Fire District. These permits are available for $50 and allow for a one-night bonfire. You’ll need to bring your own container, materials, and ensure that all trash and debris are cleaned up afterward. You can apply for a bonfire permit here.
3. Protect the Sand Dunes
The sand dunes along South Walton’s beaches are essential for protecting the coastline from erosion and storm damage. It is illegal to walk on the dunes or disturb the sea oats that grow on them. While these dunes make for a stunning backdrop in photos, please ensure that you and your family stay off the dunes to protect this natural defense system.
4. No Sleeping on the Beach
Camping out on the beach overnight may sound fun, but it’s prohibited. If you’re looking for an outdoor adventure, consider the nearby Grayton Beach State Park or Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, which both offer camping options. For more luxurious accommodations, Benchmark Management offers stunning vacation rentals right on or near the beach.
5. Dogs on the Beach
If you want to bring your dog to the beach, you’ll need to obtain a dog permit. These permits cost $40 and are only available to Walton County residents or property owners. Even with a permit, dogs are only allowed on the beach during specific hours:
- Spring and Summer: Dogs are allowed on a leash from 4 PM to 8 AM.
- Fall and Winter: Dogs are allowed from 3 PM to 9 AM. Be sure to keep your dog leashed and follow the designated hours to ensure compliance with local regulations.
6. Beach Safety & Flag Warnings
To stay informed on beach safety, including water conditions and flag warnings, check the South Walton Beach Safety page regularly for updates. The colored flags indicate whether the water is safe for swimming or if there are dangerous conditions like rip currents. Be sure to follow these guidelines to stay safe while enjoying the Gulf. For the most up-to-date beach alerts, you can also follow South Walton on social media:
By following these rules, you help preserve the natural beauty and safety of South Walton’s beaches, ensuring that the area remains one of the top vacation destinations along Florida's Emerald Coast.
Stay updated on weather alerts, beach safety conditions, and any rule changes by following South Walton’s official social media channels and visiting their official website regularly.