MONCKS CORNER, S.C. — The Moncks Corner Police Department is asking residents to report unauthorized camping locations within town limits as officials work to enforce local ordinances aimed at addressing public safety, sanitation, and environmental concerns.
In a social media post published June 1, the department reminded residents that unauthorized camping is prohibited on public property and most private property within the Town of Moncks Corner without proper authorization.
Police said the presence of unauthorized camps can create a range of challenges, including fire hazards, sanitation issues, property damage, and restricted access to public spaces such as parks, sidewalks, and other community areas.
“Addressing unauthorized camping is important to protecting both those involved and the residents, businesses, and visitors who use these spaces every day,” the department wrote.
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According to police, Moncks Corner has an ordinance that prohibits individuals from establishing tents, shelters, or other living accommodations on public property and on most private property without permission or legal authorization.
Balancing Enforcement and Assistance
While emphasizing enforcement of the ordinance, police said their approach is not solely focused on removing camps.
Officials said they also hope to identify individuals who may be experiencing homelessness or other hardships and connect them with available community resources and services.
“We understand that many individuals facing homelessness or difficult circumstances need assistance, and our goal is not simply enforcement,” the department stated. “We want to identify issues, connect people with available resources when possible, and address concerns before they become larger health and safety problems.”
Public Asked to Report Concerns
The department is encouraging residents who are aware of homeless camps, unauthorized camping locations, or areas where people may be living outdoors within town limits to contact authorities.
Police said reports can help the town:
- Address public health and safety concerns
- Connect individuals with available services and resources
- Protect public and private property
- Maintain quality of life for residents and businesses
Residents can submit information through a private message to the department’s social media accounts, contact the Moncks Corner Police Department directly at 843-719-7930, or report concerns through Berkeley County’s non-emergency dispatch line at 843-719-4506.
The department concluded its message by encouraging community involvement in addressing the issue.
“Working together, we can help keep our community safe, clean, and connected while ensuring those in need are identified and offered available assistance,” the post stated.
The announcement comes as communities across South Carolina and the nation continue to grapple with homelessness, housing affordability, and the challenges local governments face in balancing public safety concerns with efforts to connect vulnerable populations to support services.
