News Summary
The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources is conducting courtesy boat inspections from May 24 to May 26 to enhance safety for boaters during the busy Memorial Day weekend. Inspections will take place at various locations across the state and provide boaters an opportunity to ensure their vessels are equipped with necessary safety gear without punitive measures. SCDNR officers will be available to assist with inquiries and share vital safety tips as families prepare to enjoy time on the water.
Columbia, SC – The South Carolina Department of Natural Resources (SCDNR) is offering courtesy boat inspections throughout the state in preparation for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. These inspections are scheduled from May 24 to May 26, 2025, coinciding with one of the busiest boating days of the year.
The primary goal of these inspections is to enhance safety for all boaters and to ensure that necessary safety equipment is on board and that boats and motors are properly registered. The SCDNR aims to foster a safe boating environment by checking compliance without the fear of punitive measures; boaters found to be lacking in compliance will not receive tickets but will instead be given the opportunity to rectify any issues before launching their vessels.
Inspection Schedule
Inspections will be held at various locations throughout the state, with particular focus on key areas. Below is the schedule for the courtesy boat inspections:
- May 24:
- Anderson County: Twin Lakes Landing, Lake Hartwell, 10 a.m. to noon
- Charleston County: Wapoo Cut Landing, Intracoastal Waterway, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Colleton County: Bennett’s Point, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Fairfield County: Molly Creek, 10 a.m. to noon
- Greenwood County: SC Highway 72 Landing at Break on the Lake, Lake Greenwood, 10 a.m. to noon
- Horry County: Little River Landing, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Lexington County: Lake Murray Dam Landing, 10 a.m. to noon
- May 25:
- Beaufort County: Broad River Landing, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Berkeley County: William Dennis Landing, Tail Race Canal, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Charleston County: Remley’s Point, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Clarendon County: Alex Harvin Landing, Lake Marion, 10 a.m. to noon
- Kershaw County: Clearwater Cove Landing, Lake Wateree, 10 a.m. to noon
- May 26:
- Beaufort County: Lemon Island Boat Ramp, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Charleston County: Limehouse Landing, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Georgetown County: Carroll Ashmore Campbell Marine Complex Landing, 9 a.m. to 11 a.m.
- Lexington County: Lake Murray Dam, 10 a.m. to noon
- Pickens County: South Cove Landing, Lake Keowee, 10 a.m. to noon
- York County: Allison Creek Park Landing, Lake Wylie, 10 a.m. to noon
Officer Support and Safety Information
SCDNR officers will be present at each inspection location to assist boaters with any inquiries they may have regarding boating safety. They will also provide critical safety tips aimed at ensuring a smooth and safe experience on the water during the busy holiday weekend.
Boat owners and operators are advised that the SCDNR has established a 24-hour toll-free hotline to report boating violations, such as reckless operation and intoxicated boaters. The hotline number is 1-800-922-5431, and cellular phone users can dial #DNR for immediate assistance.
Background Context
Memorial Day weekend is traditionally one of the most frequented times for boating in South Carolina as families and friends head out to enjoy the water. The SCDNR promotes safety as a top priority during this busy period. By providing free inspections and encouraging compliance with safety regulations, the agency strives to reduce accidents and enhance the overall boating experience for all South Carolinians.
For further details on boating regulations, local safety courses, or other inquiries, individuals can contact the SCDNR boating safety office at 1-800-277-4301 or visit their official website.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
SCDNR Conducts Courtesy Boat Inspections for Memorial Day
Free Courtesy Boat Inspections in South Carolina for Memorial Day Weekend
Additional Resources
- WRDW: SCDNR Offering Courtesy Boat Inspections
- SW Lex Ledger: SCDNR to Hold Courtesy Boat Inspections
- ABC News 4: SCDNR to Conduct Courtesy Boat Inspections
- WRDW: Courtesy SC Boat Checks Offered
- Outdoor News: New York Lake Ontario Fishing Survey
- Wikipedia: Boat Safety
- Google Search: Boating Safety
- Google Scholar: Boating Safety Regulations
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Boat Safety
- Google News: Boating Inspections
Author: HERE Greenwood
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