Beaufort County Introduces Business Use Policy for Passive Parks
Tuesday, January 23, 2024 9:10 AM
Beaufort County Council has approved a comprehensive Business Use Policy to regulate commercial activities across its passive park properties. Applicable to all passive park properties, facilities, buildings, and structures managed by the Passive Parks Department, the policy is now available for download on the department's website: https://www.beaufortcountysc.gov/passive-parks/policies-and-rentals.html.
Effective immediately, any nonprofit organization and/or association, educational institution, or for-profit individual, limited liability corporation, and/or incorporated corporation desiring to utilize a County passive park is required to obtain a permit for such activity. This includes those who invite the general public to attend the activity, those who charge attendees admission/fees to participate in the activity, and/or any recreational activity including, but not limited to, a run/walk, educational class, ecotour, or fitness class. Proof of applicable business license(s) and insurance is required with the permit application.
While 5 of the 16 County-owned passive parks have existing agreements prohibiting business use, 4 are managed by external entities with their policies. The remaining 7 are overseen by the County’s Passive Parks Department. For specific details and contact information for each property, refer to the table below.
Beaufort County remains committed to maintaining the integrity and accessibility of its passive parks while fostering a balanced and inclusive community experience. Questions about the new Business Use Policy or Beaufort County’s passive park properties can be directed to the Passive Parks Director at (843) 255-2152 or snagid@bcgov.net.