Hilton Head Island, September 11, 2025
News Summary
Hilton Head Island has enacted a new law to improve water quality by facilitating the removal of abandoned boats from local waterways. This law, which grants municipalities enhanced authority to enforce vessel removals within a strict timeframe, aims to alleviate navigational hazards and environmental contamination. Local officials, including Mayor Alan Perry, emphasize community involvement in reporting abandoned boats through the MYHHI app, fostering proactive engagement in safeguarding the island’s natural resources.
Hilton Head Island Implements New Law to Clean Up Waterways
Hilton Head Island’s waterways are undergoing significant improvements thanks to a new law aimed at removing abandoned boats from local waters. This legislative change was celebrated recently by representatives from the Town of Hilton Head, Beaufort County, and the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as a critical step toward enhancing water quality and safety for residents and visitors alike.
The new law, passed in April, grants municipalities increased authority to enforce vessel removal and establishes a strict timeframe of 10 to 21 days for the elimination of abandoned and derelict boats. Prior to this law, the town relied on private sector groups for assistance in removing these hazards, which have been known to cause navigational issues and can lead to environmental contamination.
Mayor Alan Perry emphasized the importance of maintaining clean and clear waterways and stated that the municipality aims to reduce its dependence on private entities for the removal of derelict boats. Alongside these efforts, the town has already seen the removal of 11 abandoned vessels this summer as part of a collaborative initiative with the DNR.
Local officials have articulated that the presence of these abandoned boats presents significant safety concerns, not only for the local community but also for the countless visitors that come to enjoy Hilton Head Island’s natural resources. Council Member Larry McElynn highlighted the dire need for action, citing safety as a primary concern that prompted the changes in legislation.
The new regulations come with enhanced funding directed toward the removal efforts, as well as stricter penalties for those who abandon vessels in local waters. Mayor Perry referred to the protection of the island’s waterways as a “sacred duty,” underscoring the importance of safeguarding the environment for future generations.
In an effort to engage the community actively, the town encourages residents to report any sightings of abandoned or derelict boats through the MYHHI app, which is available for download on both Android and Apple platforms. The community’s involvement is vital in identifying and addressing the issue quickly, assisting in the law’s successful implementation.
As this new law takes effect, there is optimism surrounding the potential for cleaner, safer waterways on Hilton Head Island, which will enhance the quality of life for its residents while preserving the natural beauty of the area.
Background Context
Two years ago, the Town of Hilton Head initiated processes to tag and identify abandoned and derelict boats in its waterways. The establishment of new state resources has provided much-needed support in alleviating the burden faced by the private sector in addressing this issue. With the new legislation now in place, officials are confident that these developments will lead to lasting improvements in the management of the island’s waterways.
Key Features of the New Law
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Law Passed | April |
| Enforcement Authority | Increased municipal authority to remove abandoned vessels |
| Timeframe for Removal | 10-21 days |
| Vessel Removals Completed | 11 boats removed |
| Community Involvement | Reporting abandoned boats via MYHHI app |
| Funding and Penalties | Enhanced funding and stricter penalties for vessel abandonment |
FAQ Section
What is the significance of the new law on Hilton Head Island?
The new law allows for quicker removal of abandoned boats, reducing safety hazards and improving water quality.
How many abandoned boats have been removed so far?
11 abandoned and derelict boats have been removed from Hilton Head’s waters this summer.
How can citizens contribute to the removal efforts?
Citizens can report sightings of abandoned or derelict boats using the MYHHI app available for download on Android and Apple devices.
What penalties are included in the new law?
The new regulations include stricter penalties for those who abandon vessels in local waters, deterring future offenses.
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Additional Resources
- WJCL: Town of Hilton Head Makes Headway on Abandoned Boat Removal
- Island Packet: Important Waterway Improvements
- Post and Courier: Hilton Head Abandoned Boats Ordinance
- Wikipedia: Hilton Head Island
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hilton Head Island
Author: STAFF HERE HILTON HEAD
The HILTON HEAD STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHiltonHead.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Hilton Head Island, Beaufort County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the RBC Heritage golf tournament, Hilton Head Island Wine & Food Festival, and the Gullah Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce and Community Foundation of the Lowcountry, plus leading businesses in tourism and hospitality that power the local economy such as Sea Pines Resort and Sonesta Resort Hilton Head Island. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAiken.com, HEREBeaufort.com, HEREChapin.com, HERECharleston.com, HEREClinton.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGeorgetown.com, HEREGreenwood.com, HEREGreenville.com, HEREHiltonHead.com, HEREIrmo.com, HEREMyrtleBeach.com, HERENewberry.com, HERERockHill.com, and HERESpartanburg.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
