What to Expect During Spring Break in Panama City Beach
Spring Break is an exciting time for students, with many flocking to popular destinations like Panama City Beach. However, officials in Panama City Beach are taking steps to ensure that Spring Breakers follow the rules and regulations of the beach and the city.
New Ordinances Designed to Keep the Peace
Last year, 161 people were arrested in just one weekend in Panama City Beach. In response, officials have implemented new ordinances to keep the peace and prevent behavior that puts residents, businesses, and visitors at risk.
Prioritizing Safety: Police Chief’s Message to Spring Breakers
Police Chief J.R. Telemendez emphasizes that their main priority is to ensure the safety of everyone in the community. He notes that the behavior of Spring Breakers has changed over the years and that they will not tolerate any actions that put people at risk. Local officials and law enforcement have collaborated to create Spring Break ordinances to curb problematic behavior and prevent visitors from damaging the city.
Spring Break Ordinances: Collaborative Efforts to Curb Problematic Behavior
The mayor of Panama City notes that last year, they were unprepared for large crowds of visitors in late-night businesses. This year, an ordinance has been passed that allows the police chief to shut down any business without a court order if there are public safety issues. Businesses are encouraged to establish protocols for crowd control and to be prepared to handle any issues that may arise.
Rules and Regulations: What Visitors Should Know Before Heading to Panama City Beach
To further ensure safety, a temporary beach closure will occur from 10 pm to 4 a.m between beach access 25 near Pineapple Willy’s to beach access 36 West of Ocean Villa. This area has been the site of nearly one-third of incidents over the last two years, and officials hope that this closure will help to reduce those numbers.
Visitors should also be aware of the rules that are in place, including no alcohol at the beaches, commercial parking lots, or inside vehicles. All alcohol sales end at 2 A.M., and there are no open house parties allowed. Additionally, if you’re carrying a concealed weapon, you may need to have a permit, and any violations of the law could result in jail time, fines, and a criminal record.
Temporary Beach Closure: Addressing Public Safety Issues
The temporary beach closure is designed to address public safety issues and reduce the number of incidents that occur in the area. It will occur from March 10th until April 10th, between beach access 25 near Pineapple Willy’s to beach access 36 West of Ocean Villa.
Enjoy Your Time in Panama City Beach Responsibly
In short, while officials in Panama City Beach want visitors to enjoy their time on the beach, they are taking steps to ensure that everyone follows the rules and regulations. So, if you’re planning on heading to Panama City Beach for Spring Break, make sure to obey the laws and regulations in place to keep everyone safe. Have a great time, but remember to be responsible and considerate of others.