BERKELEY COUNTY, S.C.–Berkeley Co. council members are inching closer to passing an ordinance that would put some pretty tough restrictions in place for roadside solicitation.
During this week’s regular council meeting, members passed 2nd reading of an ordinance that would, for the most part, ban anyone from approaching drivers from public streets and highways for money.
Under the proposed ordinance, there are a few exceptions to the rule. Rescue squads, volunteer fire departments and charitable organizations are exempt from the ordinance. According to the ordinance, they must apply for a permit from the sheriff’s office, which will determine if their solicitation plans will impede traffic or will place anyone in harm’s way. Each organization will be limited to two permits per calendar year and will be limited to a three day limit for each solicitation period.
Under the proposed ordinance, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s office may also charge a $50 fee for administrative costs related to issuing the permits.
Violation of the ordinance could result in a $500 fine or jail time of up to 30 days.
In March, Berkeley County Council first took up the issue back in March after numerous complaints from residents, particularly along College Park Road in Goose Creek.
In order for the ordinance to go into effect, it must pass on third reading.
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