South Haven beachgoers could be fined $1,000 for walking the pier
SOUTH HAVEN, Mich. — Sunshine and temperatures near the 80s brought flocks of people to South Haven beach on Friday; this year, with a new ordinance to keep in mind.
The South Haven City Council approved an ordinance in January that allows people to be fined $1,000 for going into beach waters or onto the pier when they are closed due to dangerous conditions.
"$1,000 I feel like is pretty steep though because like it's mostly just like it's going to be kids doing it so it's going to be picking the pockets of someone that doesn't have the means," said Nina Pozzo, beachgoer.
Signs are displayed on the pier warning visitors of the ordinance.
The city council unanimously adopted the ordinance during a January meeting. The ordinance gives the city manager, police chief, harbormaster, and director of South Haven Area Emergency Services the authority to close public beach waters when there is a safety risk. Hazards can include contamination, dangerous debris, severe weather, or waves higher than 8 feet. The waters can also be closed when there is an active rescue or recovery mission, according to the ordinance.
"I know there's been people that drowned, so I understand why the city would want to do that to protect people," said Chuck Stull, beachgoer.
Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project reports 12 possible Great Lake drownings in 2022, although none in South Haven. In 2021, they reported 98.
There are some exceptions to this ordinance. If public beach waters are closed due to severe weather or wave height, people taking part in board sports can still go into the water at their own risk. They still must follow safety rules and have safety equipment.
