Mount Pleasant to vote on ordinance requiring licenses for charter boats

Mount Pleasant town council is set to vote on a new ordinance aimed at cracking down on illegal charter boat operations, according to Live 5 WCSC. The ordinance would require charter boat captains to obtain a business license and carry at least $1 million in liability insurance and $500,000 in property damage coverage.

Town leaders explained that while navigable waters fall under state and federal regulations, the town can regulate businesses using its docks and facilities. The new requirements are intended to hold charter operators accountable and protect public access to these facilities.

Councilmember Jake Rambo noted a recent increase in unlicensed charter boats using Mount Pleasant docks, which limits access for licensed operators and the general public who fund these facilities. The town already prohibits boaters from blocking landings or interfering with vessel loading and unloading.

Rambo emphasized the town's authority to require licenses and insurance for businesses using town property and said enforcement would be consistent with other local business regulations. The ordinance aims to ensure that charter boat operators comply with these standards to maintain fair and safe use of public docks.