### Laguna Beach to Enforce Ban on Large Sun Shades for Improved Safety
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Starting May 26, Laguna Beach will implement a ban on large sun shades, including tents and canopies, in most public beach areas. This decision aims to enhance the visibility of lifeguards and improve safety along the coastline. Those found in violation of this new ordinance may face fines reaching up to £500.
The ordinance, which received unanimous approval from the Laguna Beach City Council on April 28, highlights the necessity for lifeguards to maintain a clear line of sight to the water. Mayor Mark Orgill has voiced concerns regarding safety issues stemming from large structures obstructing lifeguards’ views, particularly in the city’s shallow coves where lifeguard towers are positioned further back against the hills.
“What we’re having a problem with is … many of our coves in Laguna Beach are quite shallow, and the lifeguard towers are pushed back up against the hill on the coves,” Orgill remarked, noting that the arrangement of tents prevents lifeguards from adequately overseeing beachgoers.
Community members and officials have also pointed to the ordinance as a measure to tackle the burgeoning summer crowds and the unwanted litter that accompanies them. Council member Sue Kempf reflected on past beach experiences, recalling simpler days when families used umbrellas instead of oversized shade structures. She indicated that the trend of bringing large setups is often linked to increased waste, stating, “It doesn’t sound great, but when people bring big shade structures, they also bring a lot of stuff. And part of the problem with all the trash on the beach is people bringing a lot of stuff.”
Earlier this year, the council deliberated on a total ban of sun shades but eventually reached a compromise recommended by safety chief Kai Bond. This compromise allows for coverings that measure up to 8 by 8 feet to be set up in designated areas of Main Beach and Aliso Beach.
Laguna Beach has historically experienced friction with tourists and visitors. In recent years, local officials have made efforts to regulate the influx of visitors, including a proposal to raise public parking fees and an increase in penalties for public drinking and littering in 2021.
In an effort to ensure the public is informed about the upcoming changes, the city plans to enhance awareness through various means. This includes placing signage throughout the area and utilising sandwich boards near the beaches, alongside notifications on social media platforms.
The enforcement of the ordinance on May 26 will mean that any unauthorised shade coverings must be removed at the request of Marine Safety Department staff, police, or other designated city personnel.
As the summer season approaches, visitors planning to enjoy one of California’s renowned public beaches should be mindful of the changes. While large shade structures will no longer be permitted, beachgoers can still enjoy the sun and surf with appropriate sunscreen and smaller, permitted coverings. With safety as a priority and environmental concerns addressed, Laguna Beach aims to maintain a welcoming atmosphere for both locals and tourists alike.