This executive order allows for expanded outdoor dining in Myrtle Beach amid coronavirus
Parking lots may now be used for dining purposes in Myrtle Beach as officials look for ways to boost the economy following shutdowns caused by the coronavirus.
With outdoor dining now allowed in South Carolina after S.C. Gov. Henry McMaster lifted certain restrictions on restaurants, Myrtle Beach City Manager John Pedersen amended an emergency order on Monday that will allow restaurants to use no more than 25 percent of their parking lots for dining service.
According to the order, restaurants are advised to avoid creating any safety hazards to pedestrians, cars, cyclists, customers, employees and first responders, and should incorporate guidelines that are in accordance with the state’s regulations on outdoor dining services amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, tables should not be placed in a location that could block the view of or access to adjacent or nearby businesses, the order states. Restaurants must also adhere to the recommended guidelines of hygiene, sanitation and social distancing.
Those who violate the order will be found guilty of a civil infraction that is punishable by fine of no more than $100. Each day the violation continues will be considered a separate and distinct offense, according to the order.
Repeat violations will result in the city temporarily suspending any occupancy permit or business license.
Those opting to provide outdoor seating must follow certain guidelines that call for tables to be spaced at least 8 feet apart, with groups of no more than eight people per table. Groups can’t gather in the building when entering or exiting outdoor seating areas, and tables, chairs and seats must also be sanitized after every customer.
Additionally, if a restaurant decides to use a temporary tent at its location, it must have a minimum ceiling of 7-and-half feet, and have a fire extinguisher within 75 feet. Restaurants must also maintain strict social and physical distancing guidelines.
Bars and dine-in services are still prohibited from opening until further notice.
Pedersen also amended an executive order passed last week that restricts hotels, short-term rentals and accommodations services in Myrtle Beach from accepting new reservations until May 15. Hotels can now accept new reservations starting May 14.
This story was originally published May 4, 2020 at 4:03 PM.
