Protecting the natural beauty of Isle of Palms is a shared responsibility. That’s why plastic bags, plastic sheeting, and other lightweight plastic materials are not allowed on the beach.

  • Protects Marine Life
    • Sea turtles, dolphins, birds, and other wildlife can mistake plastic for food, leading to injury or death.
  • Keeps Our Beaches Clean
    • Lightweight plastics can easily blow away in coastal winds, creating litter along the shoreline and in the ocean.
  • Reduces Pollution
    • Plastic can take hundreds of years to break down, contributing to long-term environmental damage.
  • Supports Sea Turtle Conservation
    • IOP is an important nesting area for sea turtles, and plastic debris can obstruct nesting and hatchling movement.
  • Preserves the Visitor Experience
    • A clean, natural beach is safer and more enjoyable for residents and visitors alike.

By choosing reusable bags, containers, and beach gear, everyone can help keep IOP beautiful for future generations.