Myrtle Beach City Council Passes 15 ordinances To Limit Bikers

From Freedom Fighter Rogue, I received the following info.
“Myrtle Beach City Council passed 15 city-wide ordinances that they hope will limit bike rallies. These ordinances will apply year-round, but are aimed to limit May’s bike rallies. The ordinances that were passed ranged from a 1 a.m. curfew for underage teenagers to requiring photo identification for anyone checking into a hotel or motel. Officials went as far as implementing a mandatory helmet law for anyone riding a motorcycle within city limits. All of the ordinances passed unanimously with the exception of the helmet ordinances. It passed 5-1. Critics say forcing bikers to wear a helmet goes against state law, which allows any adult to decide whether or not to wear one. The city, however, says it’s only an administrative infraction meant to improve the safety of people living in the city. Therefore, they say there’s no conflict with state law.
Today, business owners were worried about the new ordinances. They say that the ordinances could cripple their business. “If the bike rallies go away, it coud be the equivalent of a category five hurricane hitting Myrtle Beach for the month of May,” says Don Cauthen, who owns two restaurants in Myrtle Beach. With the new ordinances, business that have to call the police more than twice in a six month period could face a maximum fine of up to 50 thousand dollars. They could even be forced to close by two a.m”

58 Responses to “Myrtle Beach City Council Passes 15 ordinances To Limit Bikers”


  1. 1 Fred Proctor Sep 11th, 2008 at 1:00 pm

    I don’t think anyone has a problem with underage curfews, photo i.d.’s or anything that enhances our safety, I am more interested in what limits they have put on vendors/manufacturers, etc for these events. I’d like to see if we can get a posting of the ordinance changes, etc. ( Any vendors in Mrytle Beach read this blog?)
    And what gives on the restaurant owners getting fined for calling police when needed?? What do they pay taxes to the city for? Sounds like you’re forcing an owner to take the law into his own hands.

  2. 2 Mike Greenwald Sep 11th, 2008 at 1:13 pm

    There are ways to defeat this. For example, there is plenty of documentation as to the true intent. It should be obvious that if it were to go to court right now, the true intent is to keep motorcyclists out of Myrtle Beach. Documentation pertaining to the discriminatory nature should be catalogued and stored.

    The big problem with defeating this is going to be chutzpah and coordinated effort. “A vehicle operated under such infraction may be impounded.” This is obviously a violation of the bill of rights – unlawful seizure without due process. The impound threat is what is going to scare away people.

    If motorcyclists could join forces in getting an injunction against enforcement that would obviously be the best route to take, but it requires someone contacting a lawyer. ACLU would probably not help but is worth a shot.

    In terms of preemption, there are elements of preemption in 49 USC title 30103. (page 468) and there may be good arguments for preemption of state law, and there is also the Juvenile Products v Edmisten arguments.

    I know for a fact that there are people planning to go to Myrtle Beach Fall Rally.

  3. 3 Nicker Sep 11th, 2008 at 3:09 pm

    All this from one city council…..???
    That’s Government at it’s finest……………… 🙁

    -nm-

  4. 4 Mike Greenwald Sep 11th, 2008 at 7:52 pm

    Pre-emptive law should prevail since the state of SC does not have a mandatory helmets law.

  5. 5 BadMonkeyMW Sep 11th, 2008 at 10:02 pm

    Here’s to Myrtle Beach burning to the ground and then being swallowed by the ocean. What a fuckin’ joke.

  6. 6 sTEVE sIKES Sep 11th, 2008 at 10:14 pm

    FUCK MYRTLE BEACH! FUCK MYRTLE BEACH!!!!!!

  7. 7 Bigwoody Sep 12th, 2008 at 4:08 am

    So be it, They can’t smell our dollars.

    Like Daytona, avoid other places to go.

    Chillothe is stll best place to go

  8. 8 Rogue Sep 12th, 2008 at 8:00 am

    Here is a update to the first news article that was sent to me.

    The only thing passed to date is the first reading. I called city hall this afternoon to get the final copy of the helmet requirements ( the original ordinances were posted here a month or two ago) in order to prepare proper defense is I ever chose to ride in Myrtle Beach again. I was informed that the ordinances only had a first reading, secong reading is scheduled for Sept 23 2008, don’t remember the time off hand.

    These ordiances can be overturned and at the present time members of BOLT (Bikers Of Lesser Tollerance) and other motorcycle rights groups are discussing ways to go about that.
    It would be suggested that concerned people contact the rights group of their choice and ask them to intercede in this matter.

  9. 9 Rogue Sep 12th, 2008 at 8:34 am

    I recieved this from a friend in the area.
    This is not the first time the mention of Black Bike Week has come up.

    What I have been told and it is not a proper reason by any means is that it is really aimed at the second group of bikers which is commonly called black bike week.

    I was at one of my friendly watering holes last night for bike night and a friend whose sister in law works for the tourism council or whatever it is called around Myrtle said that they told those idiots to knock off the bullshit and what rhetoric they are being fed back is all the trouble they have with the black bike week is not worth the bull shit they have to put up with. However, they can not discriminate against one group so they are shooting at all of us.

    That is the story I’ve been told.

  10. 10 rodent Sep 12th, 2008 at 9:02 am

    Fuck’em they lose..BOYCOTT SOUTH CAROLINA FUCK THE ENTIRE STATE

  11. 11 Kephas Sep 12th, 2008 at 9:24 am

    I’m a vendor. I would like to read the entire ordinance passed. Right now, Myrtle is a good place to do business. Any attempts to regulate the vendor business will effect our decision to continue our business in Myrtle.

  12. 12 AC Sep 12th, 2008 at 9:25 am

    Myrtle Beach, what a fuckin’ disaster!! If Sandy was alive this bull shit would not be happening. Who the fuck elected these city council members anyway. If I was a business owner in MB, I would be going to war with these idiots on city council. Don’t they realize that their paychecks a derived from the tax dollars collected from local businesses that rely on these events to survive. As for Black Bike week, the city of MB already had to pay millions, in an NAACP lawsuit for discrimination. I hope they get their ass backwards redneck buts slapped again. As for the helmet law inside the city limits, they can’t stop everyone without headgear if everyone stands united and ignores the law. As for the full time residents who live in MB, if you don’t like tourists i.e. spring breakers and bikers who invade the sanctity of your quiet beach-side community, MOVE!! Myrtle Beach has been a tourist trap for decades, and if you did not realize this before you bought your little piece of heaven, your a fool! If you want a quiet little town by the beach there a hundreds of little towns up and down the east cost that would welcome your silver haired tax dollars. The last time I checked this was AMERICA, a county where the majority not the minority rules!!!!!!!!!!!!

  13. 13 Troy Sep 12th, 2008 at 10:06 am

    The only good message to send to these people is for everybody not to show up. Somebody will come up with a rally to replace them in a more friendly place.

  14. 14 Ben Sep 12th, 2008 at 10:17 am

    Time to move the rally to a nearby city that will welcome the business and the activity. Make it known around the biker community and something can be organized for next year or the following.

  15. 15 CHUCK Sep 12th, 2008 at 12:02 pm

    What the city is failing to realize is yes $$ will be lost, but the BBW will probaley get bigger, tell them they can’t come or not welcome and they’ll come out in force along with the NAACP in tow.
    I guess the Mayor and city counsel members forget that they’ll need the support of local business to stay in office..
    Myrtle Beach is not a community of blue hairs, but tourist of all ages and walks of life

  16. 16 HWGTHNG Sep 12th, 2008 at 12:23 pm

    Hey if “Muttle” Beach wants to be that way let em.

    Come on over to Chattanooga Tennessee. We like the biker community and have proven it by hosting the state and national HOG Rallys. It’s centrally located and growing all the time. Lot’s to do also. Another advantage you have with Chattanooga is we can offer you the Smoky Mountains, Dragons tail just a couple hours away and tons of great things…………CHATTANOOGA ARE YOU LISTENING………YEEEEEEE HAWWWWWWWW

    The Trail of Tears likes us too.

    No Ocean but who likes to dring salty water anyway

    HWGTHNG

  17. 17 harry Sep 13th, 2008 at 6:54 am

    Look at this from a basic level; the City Council is doing two things, hindering the local economy and infringing on the rights of others. It is simple as that. That should be enough for M/C riders to look elsewhere. Tennessee? Might not be a bad alternative for the folks in the Southeast…

  18. 18 Mike Greenwald Sep 13th, 2008 at 7:25 am

    The drama around the Myrtle Beach motorcycle rallies took another baby step this week as officials passed ordinances in an apparent effort to further legislate the two back to back events.
    In June the Myrtle Beach City Council not only passed a property-tax increase dedicated to an anti-bike rally campaign but also started the process to enact ordinances aimed at ending motorcycle-related vending within city limits. However, local protests and some county officials urging a more conciliatory approach prevented the outright ban many activists had hoped for.
    This week, the Myrtle Beach city council unanimously approved all but one of 15 proposed ordinances that would create new laws pertaining to May motorcycle rallies.

    * The establishment of an “infraction” hearing process outside of the usual criminal court process, to provide for issuing citations and processing violations of the proposed ordinances.

    * Defining and declaring unpermitted events and rallies to be “public nuisances” and prosecuting them along with an effort to seek “financial redress” from the violating parties.

    * The requirement to apply for an exemption to a new law to close liquor establishments at 2 a.m. if a business is in violation of a number of requirements involving increased security, food service, parking lot and container materials among other rules.

    * Adding city prosecution to county prosecutor power to prosecute those who walk out of restaurants without paying their tabs.

    * Requiring anyone under 21 attempting to check into a hotel to be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult to verify identification and to require parking stickers, cards or other IDs for each vehicle in the hotel’s parking lot.

    * A ban on the possession or consumption of liquor, beer or wine in parking lots abutting public rights of way.

    * A ban on the destructive use of landscaping areas that are established by zoning law.

    * A prohibition on the parking or storage of any boats, boat trailers, semitrailer, tractor trailer, or oversized vehicles on public streets and certain private lots. Impoundment could result.

    * New requirements for convenience store security between the hours of 11 p.m. and 6 a.m. including security cameras, drop safes, cash management and lighted parking lots.

    * A curfew for anyone under 18 between 1 a.m. and 6 a.m. unless good cause is shown as listed in the laws provisions.

    * A ban on the operation of motor vehicles that do not have required EPA (federal) stickers on their mufflers. Those without stickers (stamps) would be required to undergo tests to determine if they are in compliance with federal EPA standards.

    * A ban on loitering and refusing to leave a private business or parking lot when requested or when there are conspicuous “no loitering” signs.

    * A ban on more than one vehicle parking in a single public parking space.

    * A requirement to wear a helmet and eye protection.

    Another vote on the approved ordinances is required before they can become law and if put in place, will apply to all festivals and rallies that occur year-round. Critics of some official’s efforts to ban the motorcycle rallies acknowledge that many are aimed at year-round visitors, but there are enough motorcycle-specific ordinances to cause concern.
    It wasn’t made clear if the second required reading and vote would take place before riders are expected to arrive in Myrtle Beach for the fall ‘Pilgrimage’ rally, giving local police agencies an opportunity to enforce the new ordinances.
    Even with what many consider open official hostility towards the motorcycle rallies as well as the property-tax increase dedicated to an anti-bike rally campaign, some council members suggested that the media was at fault for exaggerating the true intent of what the council is trying to do.

  19. 19 MJ Reynolds for Bikeweek.com Sep 14th, 2008 at 8:52 am

    MYRTLE BEACH, SC – Sept. 9, 2008 – This sad note and commentary on the state of Myrtle Beach spring and fall rallies from Sonny Productions / Myrtle Beach Bike Week LLC.

    “Sonny Productions / Myrtle Beach Bike Week LLC is not setting up any vendors, selling any merchandise from Inlet Square Mall or any vending location. We want to thank everyone who supported us in the past.”

    All permitted vending locations are now in Horry County and areas outside of the Myrtle Beach city limits.

    The rules the City of Myrtle Beach (not the county) came up with passed a first reading on Sept. 9th. The updated rally-related ordinances will be considered for approval by the City Council at a second reading on Tuesday, Sept. 23, 2008. You can read the proposed ordinances and a memo from the city attorney online…

  20. 20 V-rodder Sep 15th, 2008 at 11:05 am

    Well there are three nice ones in that ordinance list.

    1. Helmet requirement (eye protection as well, but we all wear that)

    2. Only 1 Vehicle per parking spot

    3. Ban on non EPA exhaust systems.

    The last one is a biggie! That’s what 85%-90% of the Harleys at Bike Week. I’ve been to Myrtle Beach bike week every year since 2000. However I think it is time to look elsewhere.

    What really ticks me off is if you don’t want us, then just say so. No need for this passive aggressive ordinance BS. I do feel sorry for Myrtle Beach Harley-Davidson’s owner and employees.

    Ride safe!

    V-rodder

  21. 21 Mike Greenwald Sep 15th, 2008 at 11:56 am

    Why is Myrtle Beach restricting all bikers? If they went after the problem (Black Bike Week) they’d be sued for discrimination. Remember, race, religion, gender, sexual preference, etc are protected classes or groups, bikers are not. The blacks have a lot more political clout than most groups because they have that federal protection, and they take to the streets in large groups to flex their muscle. When’s the last time you saw a big gathering of bikers fighting for their rights? You get thousands to show up for the Love Ride or some breast cancer ride, but how many show up at right’s rallies? Don’t listen to idiots like Charlie Umbenhauer of PA or Doc Reichenbach in Florida, who preach that rallies don’t work. Look at history and even current times…remember how Al Sharpton and company got a certain shock jock radio host kicked off the air? We don’t have protection under federal discrimination laws because we don’t fit into those categories. We could have a lot of clout if we flexed some muscle instead of trying to impress young ladies and nerds at the bars by dressing hardcore and acting tough. Too many sidewalk commandos and wannabes and not enough freedom fighters.

  22. 22 Brian Sep 15th, 2008 at 1:06 pm

    It’s true that if those in the community don’t stand up for their rights, that THE MAN will continue to strip away our rights in every corner of our lives. This not because of the inconvieniences assosiated with hosting these two rallies and whether or not it’s worth the hundreds of millions of revenue it creates to tolerate the petty crimes committed during the bike weeks. It’s about stripping our rights as Americans, and making way for big money and big government. I hope that more than just “bikers” show up to voice their disapproval and celebrate the freedoms we have as AMERICANS. This is BIG, Myrtle Beach! DO NOT LET THEM DO AS THEY PLEASE!!! SHOW UP!! SAY NO!!!! SHOW THEM YOU WILL KEEP YOUR RIGHTS!

  23. 23 Grandevil Sep 15th, 2008 at 9:21 pm

    Blaming black bike week for the city’s decision is just as bad if not worse than what the city is doing to keep all bikers out. White, black, red, brown, yellow. Everyone looks the same under a helmet and leather jacket. We all bleed the same color if we meet pavement. We all have family and friends we care about. We all ride the same rubber and pay for the same gas And we’veall broken the speed limit, and we’ve all had one too many to drink at the bar, and we’ve all gotten in fights. We’re not that different.

    And people claim racism is dead in America.

    The way I see it, you only have 3 choices:

    1) Accept defeat. Stop bitching.

    2) Blame someone else, pick a scapegoat, pretend like you’ve never done anything questionable on or near a motorcycle.

    3) UNITE as riders, as enthusiasts, as red-fucking-blooded Americans and take action. Write the legislators, write magazines, start a boycott. Do SOMETHING.

    Personally, I prefer option 3.

  24. 24 CHOOCHOOCOP Sep 15th, 2008 at 10:16 pm

    It seems that it is time to move on. It has been a good run at the beach. The only way that this is going to be stopped is if we (bikers) stand up to the BS. This is against federal law. They (council) will have to come up with a lot of taxes to make up for the lost revenue when the bikers leave town. They already have a surcharge on everything that you buy there. I don’t like the beach anyway. I only go because my wife and daughter like to go. I would much rather go to CHATTANOOGA and see the Smokey Mountains and the BLUE RIDGE PARKWAY. It has to be a lot more fun riding the mountains than riding up and down flat streets all day long. Hey, there will be a new ghost town at the beach.

    Grandevil, I also prefer option 3. I will be in Myrtle Beach next week on business and plan to take my bike and show up at the meeting with it.

  25. 25 Jeff Nicklus Sep 17th, 2008 at 11:13 am

    One more time for those of you who seem to be of the “Learning Impaired” category…..

    &UCK MYRTLE BEACH AND THE HORSE THEY RODE IN ON! THEY DON’T WANT US THERE SO WHY IN THE HELL DO WE WANT TO GO BACK? LET’S TAKE OUR MONEY AND LEAVE AS THEY HAVE ASKED. IT WON’T TAKE LONG BEFORE THE CITY OF MYRTLE BEACH WILL COME BEGGING THAT WE COME BACK (JUST LIKE DAYTONA DID) AFTER THEY HAVE SUFFERED THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF OUR DEPARTURE, THEN WE CAN GLOAT AT THEIR STUPIDITY.

    Why not go to Thunder Beach in Panama City FL in the Spring and Delmarva Bike Week in Ocean City MD in the Fall. Both of these event locations have better beaches, the people actually want us there, the events are more fun, the “Locals” do not have “Event Pricing” during the event as does Myrtle therefore we save money, the beer is cold and the women are hot and the weather is more predictable.

    We at Desperado Motorcycles and Jeff Nicklus Customs are done with Myrtle Beach and their &ucked up attitude. We will be at Thunder Beach or Delmarva Bike Week if you need us!

    Over and Out,

    Jeff

  26. 26 KP Sep 19th, 2008 at 12:22 pm

    I agree with most of the comments here, but the bottom line is money talks. I’m still going this fall, but I will stay out of Myrtle Beach. I’m staying in Garden City and will spend my dollars at businesses outside the city limits. If everyone did this, the businesses would stand up to city council. All of these new ordinances just give the police the ability to harass bikers and keep us away. Let’s stay away from MB and let them try and make our money up somewhere else. It shouldn’t be too hard in this booming economy. If this fall sucks and they keep up all the rhetoric, I’m finding somewhere else to go.

  27. 27 jack Sep 22nd, 2008 at 8:17 am

    the people of myrtle beach can have it all to them self in may!!!!! been going to delmarv bike week for some time now and some postive changes have been made, like spreding venders all over the area.

  28. 28 Mike Greenwald Sep 22nd, 2008 at 11:21 am

    After much thought and deliberation, possibly we need more bikers to descend upon Myrtle Beach. Maybe we should declare a “bike month” there rather than a “bike week”.

  29. 29 Marko Sep 22nd, 2008 at 12:59 pm

    After reading all the above posts – one thing is perfectly clear – there are two distinct sides – the ones with the bully platform and associated power (the city council) and the rest of the world.

    Has anyone really looked at downtown MB lately? We were there this summer and it honestly looks like a semi-deserted part of town that used to be on the other side of the tracks. The Pavilion seems to have died for no apparent reason – downtown seems to be dying quicker than the dinosaurs and the over hyped Hard Rock Park is pricey and ho-hum at best.

    I have been going to MB for all of my 51 years and this summer was the first time ever I thought – it has lost its magic and it’s time for something different.

    I feel for so many who depend on us for a shot in their economic arms – but – this fall’s attendance will be pitiful….

    Way to go beuracrats!! You have served your voters well……You are giving them what they want – peace and quiet and squeaky door hinges – just like an old west ghost town………..

  30. 30 WGS Sep 23rd, 2008 at 7:33 pm

    All the ordinances (or are they calling them laws) passed today. Okey-dokey. I am sure most folks can stay away from the city of Myrtle Beach. It is a shame what Myrtle Beach has become.

  31. 31 Mike Greenwald Sep 23rd, 2008 at 8:06 pm

    We now have a fight in their courts and this is good.

  32. 32 TEK Sep 23rd, 2008 at 8:07 pm

    This is up to the Business in Myrtle Beach. The Business owner need to go to the council Meeting on Sept 23 and voice there $$ that will be lost to there city. THE TAXES dollars and Business dollars there city will NOT get. And if this ordinances still passed then there neet to VOTE to get new council menbers on city hall.

  33. 33 Mike Greenwald Sep 23rd, 2008 at 8:45 pm

    TEK,

    How is it up to the businesses if an individual gets a helmet ticket based upon some flimsiness in the Myrtle Beach legislature? The additional misuse of real estate(parking places to one motorcycle per parking space has nothing to do with businesses. It has everything to lower motorcycle density and greed to get paid for every motorcycle parking in their town.

  34. 34 ROBIN Sep 23rd, 2008 at 10:55 pm

    This was done in the past : control everybody different make everyone like us ——- Hitler and the nazis

  35. 35 Vic Sep 24th, 2008 at 12:13 pm

    I guess MB doesn’t want my vacation dollars from family trips throughout the year. This also confirms my plans to move our 2 company golf outtings to another location. I’m sure MB won’t miss 250 people & my company wasting their money in their town. So here’s to you MB for all the BS.

  36. 36 Mike Greenwald Sep 24th, 2008 at 12:47 pm

    http://www.cityofmyrtlebeach.com/agendas.html
    Taken from City of Myrtle Beach meeting agenda, Tuesday September 23,
    2008.

    NOTE:
    2008-64: helmet/eyewear ordinance passed 5-1. All the other ordinances
    passed 6-0. Councilman Chuck Martino was absent.

    2008-68 : noise

    2008-70 : the council voted to allow no more than two bikers per public
    space.

    The council had been planning to require all official security personnel
    to be licensed and bonded. Councilmembers removed the bonding
    requirement before passing the second and final draft of the ordinance.
    [www.myrtlebeachonline.com/news/breaking_news/story/605611.html ]

    ___________________________________
    SECOND READINGS:

    NOTE: TITLES HAVE BEEN AMENDED ON ORDINANCES NOS. 2008-59 THROUGH
    2008-69 SINCE 1ST READING TO BRING THEM INTO COMPLIANCE WITH THE CODE OF
    ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF MYRTLE BEACH.

    2008-57 ORDINANCE AMENDING SECTIONS 10-22 OF DIVISION 1 OF ARTICLE
    II OF CHAPTER 10 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF MYRTLE BEACH
    TO DEFINE AND DECLARE UNPERMITTED EVENTS AND RALLIES TO BE PUBLIC
    NUISANCES; TO PROHIBIT THEIR MAINTENANCE AND TO SEEK FINANCIAL REDRESS
    FROM THOSE ENTITIES THAT PROMOTE UNPERMITTED SPECIAL EVENTS IN THE CITY.

    2008-58 ORDINANCE TO AMEND ARTICLE VI, OF CHAPTER 19, SECTIONS
    19-127 TO INCLUDE EVENTS INSIDE OR OUTSIDE THE CITY LIMITS WHICH IMPACT
    THE PUBLIC; IN SECTION 19-128 TO CORRECT A SCRIVENER’S ERROR; AND IN
    SECTION 19-156 TO SPECIFY THE RESPONSIBLE PARTIES FOR COST RECOVERY WHEN
    THEY PROMOTE UNPERMITTED SPECIAL EVENTS THAT IMPACT THE CITY.

    2008-59 ORDINANCE TO ENACT CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE I, SECTION 14-1(e),
    HOURS OF SALE RESTRICTED FOR COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS WHICH ALLOW FOR
    ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION OF BEER, ALE, PORTER AND/OR WINE; WITH
    EXEMPTION, AND LOSS OF EXEMPTION IN THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY
    OF MYRTLE BEACH.

    2008-59 ALTERNATE ORDINANCE TO ENACT CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE I,
    SECTION 14-1(e), HOURS OF SALE RESTRICTED FOR COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENTS
    WHICH ALLOW FOR ON-PREMISES CONSUMPTION OF BEER, ALE, PORTER AND/OR
    WINE; WITH EXEMPTION, LOSS OF EXEMPTION AND APPEAL IN THE CODE OF
    ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF MYRTLE BEACH.

    2008-60 ORDINANCE TO ENACT CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE I, SECTION 14-7
    DEFRAUDING A RESTAURANT.

    2008-61 IN CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-220, AN ORDINANCE TO
    PROHIBIT THE ENGAGEMENT IN RENTAL OF ACCOMMODATION TAX PROPERTY, OR
    SHORT TERM RENTAL PROPERTY, WITHOUT PROOF OF ADULT RESPONSIBILITY BY WAY
    OF IDENTIFICATION PRESENTED AT CHECK IN; AND TO REQUIRE PARKING
    STICKERS, HANGERS, CARDS OR OTHER IDENTIFYING RECORD FOR DISPLAY IN EACH
    VEHICLE REGISTERED; AND TO REQUIRE SECURITY AND CONTROL OF PARKING
    AREAS; THE VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION.

    2008-62 IN CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-221, AN ORDINANCE TO
    PROHIBIT THE POSSESSION OR CONSUMPTION OF LIQUOR, BEER, ALE, PORTER
    AND/OR WINE IN THE PARKING LOTS ABUTTING CERTAIN PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY;
    THE VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION.

    2008-63 IN CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-222, AN ORDINANCE TO
    PROHIBIT THE DESTRUCTIVE USE OF THE LANDSCAPING AREAS REQUIRED BY ZONING
    LAW, AND TO PROHIBIT PUBLIC NUISANCE USES OF PARKING AREAS; THE
    VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION.

    2008-64 IN CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-223 THROUGH 14-227, AN
    ORDINANCE TO REQUIRE SAFETY HELMETS AND PROTECTIVE EYEWEAR WHILE ON A
    MOTORCYCLE; THE VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION.

    2008-65 IN CHAPTER 14 ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-228 THROUGH 14-231, AN
    ORDINANCE TO PROHIBIT THE PARKING OR STORAGE OF ANY BOATS AND BOAT
    TRAILERS, SEMITRAILER, TRACTOR, TRAILER, OR OVERSIZED VEHICLES AS HEREIN
    DEFINED ON PUBLIC STREETS AND CERTAIN PRIVATE LOTS; RESIDING IN ANY
    PARKED OR STORED VEHICLE PROHIBITED; AND AUTHORIZATION FOR IMPOUNDMENT;
    THE VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION.

    2008-66 IN CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-232 THROUGH 14-235, AN
    ORDINANCE TO REQUIRE SECURITY MEASURES AT CONVENIENCE BUSINESSES; THE
    VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION.

    2008-67 IN CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-236 THROUGH 14-239, AN
    ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A JUVENILE CURFEW, THE VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN
    ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION.

    2008-68 IN CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTION 14-240, AN ORDINANCE TO
    PROHIBIT THE OPERATIONS OF MOTOR VEHICLES THAT DO NOT HAVE REQUIRED EPA
    LABELING COMPLIANCE OR THAT EXCEED ESTABLISHED SOUND LEVELS; TO PROHIBIT
    THE OPERATION OF ANY MOTOR VEHICLES THAT ARE NOT EQUIPPED WITH ANY
    EXHAUST MUFFLER APPROVED BY THIS CHAPTER; THE VIOLATION OF WHICH IS AN
    ADMINISTRATIVE INFRACTION; AND TO DECLARE VEHICLES IN VIOLATION TO BE A
    PUBLIC NUISANCE, AND IMPOUND, TOW AND STORE SUCH VEHICLES UNTIL THE
    VEHICLES CAN BE REMOVED FROM THE CITY LIMITS WITHOUT OPERATION IN
    VIOLATION OF THE LAW.

    2008-69 ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE V, SECTION 14-85, BY
    ADDING (10) TO SECTION (B) PROHIBIT LOITERING WITH A HARMFUL PURPOSE OR
    EFFECT BY REFUSING OR FAILING TO LEAVE A PRIVATE BUSINESS, COMMERCIAL
    ESTABLISHMENT, OR PARKING LOT THAT IS POSTED WITH CONSPICUOUS “NO
    LOITERING” SIGNS.

    2008-70 ORDINANCE TO ENACT CHAPTER 12, ARTICLE III, DIVISION 1,
    SECTION 12-102, TO PROHIBIT MORE THAN ONE VEHICLE PER PARKING SPACE; AND
    TO AMEND CHAPTER 12, ARTICLE III, DIVISION 1, SECTION 12-132 TO REPEAL
    DEACTIVATION FOR MOTORCYCLE PARKING IN THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE
    CITY OF MYRTLE BEACH.

    2008-71 ORDINANCE TO ENACT CHAPTER 14, ARTICLE X, SECTIONS
    BEGINNING 14-200, ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING SYSTEM AND INFRACTIONS.

  37. 37 98camaroz28 Sep 28th, 2008 at 12:47 pm

    Bikers unite! Stay away from Myrtle Beach! Just stay on 17 bypass and go around. Spend your money in Surfside, Murrell Inlet, and North Myrtle Beach! SBB, Beaver Bar and HB Spokes are a lot more fun than anything in MYB!

  38. 38 Bill Sep 28th, 2008 at 4:16 pm

    It is what it is……..Discrimination, period.

  39. 39 BIGMike Sep 28th, 2008 at 9:31 pm

    Interesting enough, I was just in MB last weekend with some friends and of course we brought our bikes. I have been going to bike week for the last 10 or so yrs religiously (even flew in from alaska). In my opinion, we should just go elsewhere. Money spends everywhere. Why even give them the satisfaction. They will feel the economic impact immediately. I do feel sorry for the businesses that do welcome bikers. I will not go back to MB for bikeweek or a simple weekend again.

  40. 40 hardlyable Sep 29th, 2008 at 7:58 pm

    I’ve been going to MB for some 12 to 15 yrs and to tell you the truth most of my time has been spent north or south of the city anyway. Like Marko said in the statment above “the place looks deserted, like a ghost town” It’s true, the whole city looks vacant, closed down, entire shopping malls closed down. Other than a couple good resturants most of my time is spent driving through. None of my money is going to get spent there as should anybody elses the way the city is treating this. My thought is the city is biting off the hand thats feeding it, they should be doing more for the business’ to keep the “tourism” there rather than driving it away. All the bikers should unite and boycot MB and stay out of the cities limits (I’m sorry to the local business’) but we should all stand up to this nonsense. Lets not be pushed around and told what to do, where and when to do it, like I read above, it’s still America (I think) If their going to impose “city ordinances” don’t hurt the business’, there the ones people are coming to see, vist, spend money. Get it, SPEND MONEY the same money that keeps the city going. The economy is bad enough, it’s tough for the small business man to make it and now being taxed to help the city come up with enough money to enforce the new ordinances. I’m sorry but if the city should see fit to tax somone, tax just the people that do all the complaining, the same one’s that probably voted you IDIOTS in office!!!!!!!! I’m very concerned about the future of MB, it’s headed in the wrong direction and fast. We need help, is there a lawyer in the house(HA HA HA) . Sombody stand up and fight (we all, stand up and fight) Bikers unite and come together as one, BE HEARD, BE LOUD, BE STRONG, CHOPPERS FOREVER, AMEN!!!!!!!!!!

  41. 41 Nicker Sep 29th, 2008 at 9:06 pm

    Could there be a “cause and effect” scenario being plaid out here???
    Behavior, like “pipes” can create all kind-a problems.

    RE:

    * Adding city prosecution to county prosecutor power to prosecute those who walk out of restaurants without paying their tabs.

    * A ban on the destructive use of landscaping areas that are established by zoning law.

    * A ban on the possession or consumption of liquor, beer or wine in parking lots abutting public rights of way.

    * A ban on loitering and refusing to leave a private business or parking lot when requested or when there are conspicuous “no loitering” signs.

    Ya think……….?????

    -nicker-

  42. 42 Bikers Go Home Sep 30th, 2008 at 5:05 pm

    As a resident of Myrtle Beach, seeing quotes like “Time to move the rally to a nearby city….” or “The only good message to send to these people is for everybody not to show up” is music to my ears. That is precisely what we want.

    The problem that the “biker community” fails to recognize is that bike “week” has already become bike “month”, and the proliferation of custom bikes with “anti-mufflers” that amplify noise rather than muffle it means that the permanent residents of Myrtle Beach suffer for nearly a month out of every year (May rally plus Fall rally) with the horrible noise and other nuiscances that bikers bring with them.

    Also, the tired refrain from the pro-rally crowd that residents shouldn’t complain about the rallies because they live in a tourist town is bunk. Bikers must realize that Myrtle Beach has been slowly transforming from an exclusive tourist town to a place where people are settling permanently, especially retirees. The base of the Myrtle Beach economy is driven as much by permanent residents and owners of second homes as it is by tourism, and the bike rallies are a small part of that tourism.

    Bikers seem to think that Myrtle Beach will dry up and disappear if they stop coming here. Quite the contrary, the month of May still pales in comparison to the primary summer months in terms of business dollars, and the departure of the rallies will soon be replaced by other sources of more family friendly, noise friendly, debauchery free tourism. And as for BBW, they don’t spend hardly any money any way and the city loses millions on law enforcement each year during BBW, so go ridance to that as well.

    The rash of anti bike rally sentiment in Myrtle Beach was not created randomly by the City Council, the City Counsel is simply reacting to years of resident complaints that have reached a crescendo recently, so they acted as their resident wanted them too. They are an extention of the city’s residents and reflect the majority of opinions in Myrtle Beach. So bikers should open their eyes and recognize that the reasons for the the anti-biker sentiment have real causes, it hasn’t just been created out of thin air. The blame lies with the bikers themselves. The rallies have brought with them increasing crime, noise, and debauchery (look it up if you don’t know this word), and that is why the residents of MB are up in arms over this. The catch phrase is “enough is enough”. We’ve put up with it for too long, and our patience has reached a breaking point.

    If the rallies must continue, it would be refreshing for bikers to recognize the impact that they have on the communities that they travel to, and make a real effort to change that impact so that everyone could co-exist. I shouldn’t have to hear a motorcycle going from 0-60 in 3 seconds with a decibel level of 180db at 4:00am, for three weeks non-stop….

    So please, go some place else for your rallies and get the heck out of Myrtle Beach and the Grand Strand completely. We don’t need Ya!!!!

  43. 43 Jeff Nicklus Sep 30th, 2008 at 5:24 pm

    Dear Bikers Go Home,

    Suck my 180db tail pipe, numb nuts (please feel free to look that up if you don’t know what it means).

    Over & Out,

    Jeff

  44. 44 Bikers Go Home Oct 1st, 2008 at 12:37 am

    Dear Jeff,

    Real mature. Your response it typical and is exactly why you are not wanted in Myrtle Beach, and probably most places you visit. Perhaps if you actually respected the places you visit, the local folks would want you to come back. But you and your ilk clearly you have no respect for the towns that host you, so don’t act surprised to learn that locals don’t want you around. If the biker community respected the community, then we wouldn’t be talking about the FIFTEEN “anit-rally” ordinances passed by MB, now would we? It is simple cause and effect: bikers have worn out their welcome, so the welcome mat is being removed.

    Respect for the community is what we ask. If you can’t do that, then please go some place else.

    P.S. If you think your loud tail pipe makes you cool, then you are about as cool as those idiots who put the big wing on the back of their Ford Escort. It takes a real man to have a loud tail pipe…. puh lease. I hope the MB Police go crazy enforcing the noise ordinances and tickets the utter hell out of bikers this weekend.

  45. 45 Jeff Nicklus Oct 1st, 2008 at 11:30 am

    Dear Bikers Go Home,

    Sure you are right …. not!

    If what you say is correct then why has Sturgis SD just celebrated their 68th annual bike week, Laconia, NH their 85th annual event, Daytona Bike Week their 67th annual event, Laughlin NV their 25th event etc. etc.? More and more cities around the country are bidding for our attention (and dollars) every day. We literally could be at an event every weekend of the year if we chose to do so. As a matter of fact out show truck just pulled out minutes ago to do an event here in Houston. So as I have said from the onset of the crap in Myrtle Beach, why waste our time and money on a bunch of crusty old bastards who don’t want us? We will take our money and go elsewhere. Further, no matter what you say when the bikers leave so does the money, which does, whether you can admit it or not, will have a major impact on the local economy.

    So in conclusion I wish you and your fellow “Crusty Old Bastards” a good life and I hope you enjoy watching your grass grow and the new Myrtle Beach fiscal income deficit you will soon enjoy. Hopefully you can get as many “families” driving their quiet SUV’s to visit Myrtle Beach during the former rally week time period…… not likely. Should that be the case, however, I am sure the Myrtle Beach, at the insistence of the Crusty Old Bastards Club, will come out with a new City Ordinance against children having fun and being overly noisy. SHHHHHHH lets listen to the grass grow!

    Over & Out,

    Jeff

  46. 46 debbie in wva Oct 3rd, 2008 at 10:35 pm

    has the city councel gone mad? we plan our vacations around bike weeks(spring and fall)
    there are about 8-10 couples that come with us. some bring thier kids/parents. we(my family only) have spent on average 2,000-3,0000 each time. for hotels, food, shopping, venders and fuel.
    you do the math!!!!!!!!! during the past two years we have noticed a difference, the police pull over bikers on every corner, and cars speed by without a glance given to them. our group is looking for a different place to RIDE FREE. i want to let the city councel know that our group comes down to enjoy the beach, and the rally, but know more. this is the worst case of control i have seem. to those who live there, beware when our money (the entire rally) leaves, so does your good life. they will have to raise your taxes to make up the difference.

    looking for new place

    debbie

  47. 47 Concerned MB Resident Oct 7th, 2008 at 12:43 am

    Dear Debbie,

    What irks me most of all when it comes to the biker community is that they simply refuse to see the obvious when it comes to the negative aspects of massive gatherings of bikers. You and your friends may obey the speed limit, not weave in an out of traffic recklessly, and may not run stop signs and red lights, but during bike “month” in May (let’s not kid ourselves, it goes on for 4 consecutive weekends in May), I constantly witness awful and reckless driving by bikers the entire time. Driving is much, much, more dangerous during bike month than it is during a “normal” time of the year.

    I assure you, every time you see a biker pulled over in MB, it is because they were breaking traffic law and putting themselves and other innocent folks in danger. And trust me, the MB cops give the locals plenty of tickets too. My spouse and I have both received tickets in the last year, so don’t be naive and sit there and act like the police are just “out to get” bikers. There is a reason you see bikers pulled over on every corner: during bike month the bikers outnumber the locals 10 to 1, and many bikers are driving recklessly, so it stands to reason that you should see at least 10 bikes getting a ticket to every car, using basic logic.

    The bottom line during bike month many bikers are extremely RECKLESS on our roads, whether you want to admit it or not. If you don’t see this when you come here, then you are blind to the obvious. If everyone obeyed traffic law like I’m sure you do, then it might be different, but they simply don’t. I’ve seen bikes speeding down Kings Highway upwards of 90mph in short burst (speed limit is 45 mph). I see them weaving in and out of lanes as that blow past cars going the speed limit. It is awful and I detest it.

    Sincerely,

    Kate in MB

  48. 48 The Kernel Oct 16th, 2008 at 4:43 pm

    To “Bikers Go Home”.

    You want us out, then you can have it your way. We just put our MB property up for sale. We used to go to MB about 8 times a year. I am a native of SC. I’m 54 years old, and have vacationed in MB many times, starting when I was a child. I attended my first MB Bike Rally in 1980. No more. After our property sells, I will never step foot inside the city limits again. Don’t worry, I won’t let the screen door hit me on the way out. Your once-fair city is now a disgrace and the laughing stock of SC.

    By the way, I don’t drink, I always wear a helmet, I don’t have loud pipes on my bikes, and I don’t like you.

    Tom in Upstate SC

  49. 49 mcfly Jan 15th, 2009 at 7:45 am

    I am very interested to see these dates when these resteraunts have the “Dine and Dash” problems, all of the loitering issues and all of the other “ISSUES” the City of Myrtle Beach is having. These dates will show exactly who are the people causing these instances. For the 25 years I have been going to MBBW I have never witnessed this crap that the council members are using as excuses. Everyone knows where these are originating. BBW!!!!!
    Someone needs to have the balls to stand up and tell the BBW they are not welcome. Who cares about the NAACP, they are already BOYCOTTING South Carolina because of the flag. So who gives a S— if they come or not. They don’t spend anywhere’s near the money that the Original Bike Week Bikers spend and cause 10 times the damage. Take a close look at the dates and the “Truth Will Set You Free!!!!!!!!”

  50. 50 Mike Greenwald Jan 15th, 2009 at 8:53 am

    Here is the “official version”

    Dear Visitors,
    Myrtle Beach is no longer the location for two long-running motorcycle events. After many years, our residents grew weary of three weeks of noise and traffic congestion each May, and they asked City Council to end the events. As a result, the Harley-Davidson Dealers Association Spring Rally and the Atlantic Beach Memorial Day Bikefest will not be held in Myrtle Beach.
    This was a difficult decision. Myrtle Beach welcomes visitors year-round, but the giant motorcycle rallies simply grew too large. Our staff, residents and businesses strained to keep up with these huge single-focus events. It may surprise you, but our economy is much healthier with a fully diversified visitor base, instead of a concentration on one or two extremely large events.
    Please know that Myrtle Beach is not anti-biker or anti-motorcycle. We want folks to come on the vehicle of their choice and enjoy all of the things Myrtle Beach has to offer. We are ending the motorcycle-related rallies because they grew too big and lasted too long. The huge rallies even kept visitors away from Myrtle Beach, and that’s not good.
    For everyone’s safety and welfare, City Council has added a few new rules and regulations. We believe these new laws will make Myrtle Beach a safer and more friendly destination. For example, with your safety in mind, we now require that all motorcycle riders and passengers wear a helmet and eye protection. We also have a 1:00 to 6:00 a.m. curfew for everyone under 18. These and other rule changes are explained on this web site.
    Thank you for understanding. As you know, Myrtle Beach is a great place to visit, and we welcome you at any time. I look forward to your next visit and am confident that you will have a great time in Myrtle Beach!
    Sincerely,

    John Rhodes
    Mayor

  51. 51 Danny James Apr 22nd, 2009 at 8:34 pm

    John Rhodes,

    My family vacationed at Myrtle Beach during spring break, and on the last night of vacation I received a noise ordinance ticket on Ocean Blvd, not for loud exhaust or anything of this nature but for my stereo in my SUV. These so called noise ordinance laws are way to vague and open to to much interpretation by these inept city police. I was unaware a stereo system was a danger to public safety, health, or welfare… or whatever other BS terms you all use. The ticket stated I was in violation of ordinance code section 14-62. While building my case against them for court next week I have found out that this ordinance section has to deal with all the ways you are trying to keep bikers out of MB and not for any stereo systems.

    Furthermore you need to define the allowed decibel limitations(and have it posted for tourists like myself) for incorporated areas of the city because the only ones I have found have to do with motorcycle mufflers and unincorporated areas of the city. Because the last time I attended school, decibels were what they measured noise with and not some city cops ear. MB apparently does not want any outsiders visiting anymore, regardless if you own a bike or not, so I hope you are not looking to forward to my next visit, because of this I doubt very seriously if I will spend any more of my NC dollars in your state.

    Danny James

  52. 52 MB Resident May 12th, 2009 at 8:53 pm

    Myrtle Beach city council is terrible they all should resign today! In a city that thrives on tourist traffic income to survive and prosper they continue to do things to run these people off. millions lost do to bike rallies (its 2 weeks people for millions of dollars in tax income). Plus the millions lost to local businesses not to mention many of these people come another time of the year and you treat them like this do you think they will come back — NO.
    MB cuts millions of revenue, and wants to raise taxes to make it up. However with less traffic you’ll see less workers and spending. Whos gonna make up the millions your taxes are reaching the limits of towns with two or three times the main stream income base. Put MB on auto-pilot no leadership is better than what we have. I’m already trying to go to NMB to shop just to start making it a habit , cause by time they are done we’ll have 10% sales tax.
    I applaud NMB and Atlantic beach for welcoming these groups and hope they step it up and finally step out of Myrtle Beach cities shadows. If Myrtle Beach continues on this path they will drive themselves out of the tourist business in the long run.
    GO NMB!!!

    By the way — John Rhodes ran his personal business in the ground and had to close it down!! Now he thinks he can make good business decisions for a whole city! Maybe time has passed you by john and your thoughts are outdated, please step down before you allow our city to ruin!

  53. 53 susan May 14th, 2009 at 7:50 pm

    golfers are worst than any biker ever thought about being. they just run in smaller packs!! f#@$ mb as I ride away on my Dyna…….

  54. 54 Ron Jun 28th, 2009 at 8:53 am

    My money spends other places just as well as Myrtle beach. I don’t need to go anywhere I am not welcome. It’s on the list with Ocean city MD. and the constant speed traps the MD state police run that week.

  55. 55 fred Jul 26th, 2009 at 12:36 pm

    myrtle beach can kiss my ssa so can tri state recovery they will tow your vehicle agaist proper procedures from city ordinance code 23-133 and the police wont do anything about it i guess they can get away with highway robbery in mb i am from ga and will never set foot in mb again as for stupid new laws they have passed i wont have to worry about those because i wont go back

  56. 56 BLACK BIKER Aug 12th, 2009 at 8:18 am

    TO THE BLACK BIKERS… Myrtle Beach DOES NOT, AND NEVER HAS held black bike week. THE TOWN OF ATLANTIC BEACH DOES! DO NOT spend A DIME in Myrtle Beach. The (BLACK) town of Atlantic Beach welcomes US with open arms, and the laws there ARE NOT like Myrtle Beach’s laws which restrict you from even breathing hard. SO IN 2010, BIKE WEEK (LIKE 2009) WILL BE HELD IN ATLANTIC BEACH! To the vendors, DO NOT make your T-shirts to read ANYTHING about Myrtle Beach. Make is read ATLANTIC BEACH BIKE WEEK 2010.. WE LOOK FOWARD TO WELCOMING YOU BACK! To the Myrtle Beach residents, business owners, police, and city council you don’t have to worry about black people with your racist asses because I, and my riders ARE spreading the word about your NEW laws. I will do EVERYTHING IN MY POWER to see you not make ONE DAMN THIN DIME! WE WILL SPEND OUR MONEY IN ATLANTIC BEACH WHERE IT IS WANTED, WITH OUR BROTHERS, AND SISTERS.. This is rediculous. You run the bikers away, but I remember that you idiots actually around 1997 LET THE KU KLUX KLAN MARCH DOWN OCEAN BOULEVARD BY THE PAVILLION!!!!!! YES PEOPLE, THIS WAS IN THE MIDDLE OF THE SUMMER, WITH TOURISTS WATCHING! Myrtle Beach has its priorities backwards! ALL RACES, BOYCOTT MYRTLE BEACH!!! SPEND YOUR MONEY ELSEWHERE!

  57. 57 Ron Jan 17th, 2010 at 7:47 pm

    I am a biker, but I don’t want to be part of an outfit that goes into somebody’s city and act like a wild person. I wish my friends would have fun, respect others and show folks that we bikers are plain old dudes like that enjoy riding with the wind in our face.

  58. 58 Mike Jan 28th, 2010 at 6:50 pm

    It is foolish to judge a whole group becasue of a few rogues. haven’t we learned this lesson before.

    Bike Week is still on for 2010.

    The Town of Atlantic beach supports us.

    Long Live Black Bike Week.

    http://www.blackbikeweeks.com/2010/01/black-bike-week-2010-dates/

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Cyril Huze