Seabrook Island Town Hall will be closed on Thu. August 5th and Fri. August 6th after a member of town staff tested positive for COVID-19. 

The employee began displaying symptoms of the virus on Mon. August 2nd and subsequently received a positive test result on Wed. August 4th. The employee was fully vaccinated earlier this year. This is the second time Town Hall has been closed this year due to a positive test result, and the first known instance of "breakthrough" case among a vaccinated member of town staff.

Town staff will be working remotely during the closure. Individuals needing to conduct business with the town may contact us by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org. A drop box will also be available outside town hall. 

Due to the rapid ride of COVID-19 infections across the state, and consistent with recent guidance from the CDC and SCDHEC, the town re-instituted a mask requirement on Mon. August 2nd for all visitors conducting business inside Town Hall, including those who are fully vaccinated. 

July 30, 2021 -- 2:00 pm
 
Based on emerging evidence regarding the COVID-19 “Delta” variant, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that all persons, including those who are fully vaccinated, wear a mask or face covering in public indoor settings in areas with “substantial” or “high” rates of community transmission. According to CDC data, Charleston County currently has a “substantial” rate of transmission and is one of 41 counties in the State of South Carolina with a transmission rate of “substantial” or “high.”
 
The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) has adopted the CDC’s updated guidance and is now recommending that all South Carolinians, including those who are fully vaccinated, wear their masks when indoors and in public settings in areas with “substantial” and “high” rates of transmission.
 
Based on state and federal recommendations, all visitors and staff, including those who are fully vaccinated, will be required to wear a mask or face covering while conducting business inside Seabrook Island Town Hall beginning on Monday, August 2nd.
 
As of this week, the town has resumed holding in-person meetings of Seabrook Island Town Council, as well as all town boards, commissions and committees. While the town does not currently plan to return to virtual meetings at this time, we will continue to monitor this situation and may adjust these plans if necessary. All individuals attending a public meeting at Town Hall will be required to wear a mask or face covering while inside the building. Residents and property owners may continue to participate in all public meetings virtually via the Zoom meeting platform. Town meetings will also be broadcast live and on-demand on the Town of Seabrook Island YouTube Channel.
 
For more information, please contact Town Hall by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org. 

May 13, 2021 -- 2:00 pm
 
Emergency Ordinance No. 2021-03
During an emergency meeting on May 13th, Seabrook Island Town Council adopted Emergency Ordinance No. 2021-03, which repealed and replaced all prior emergency restrictions related to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Effective immediately, the town has:

• Repealed the mandatory face covering requirement at business establishments within the town;
• Repealed all emergency restrictions on gatherings and group congregations;
• Repealed all emergency restrictions and guidelines on commercial and restaurant operations;
• Extended emergency provisions related to the remote conduct of town meetings;
• Extended emergency provisions related to the issuance of temporary use permits;
• Extended the expiration date for new and existing building permits; and
• Encouraged all individuals within the Town of Seabrook Island who are eligible under state and federal guidelines to get vaccinated against COVID-19 in an effort to protect their own health and safety and to minimize community spread among other residents, visitors and employees within the Town.

 
While the mandatory mask ordinance has been repealed, the town continues to encourage individuals – especially unvaccinated individuals – to wear a face covering in public settings where they are, will be, or reasonably could be located in close proximity to others who are not members of the same household and where it is not feasible to maintain six (6) feet of separation.
 
Additionally, Emergency Ordinance No. 2021-03 does not prohibit any businesses or other establishment from developing and implementing its own requirements, restrictions or guidelines, whether related to face coverings or other hygiene-related measures. Residents and visitors are encouraged to follow any such requirements when entering the premises of an establishment.

• View Emergency Ordinance No. 2021-03

 
Vaccine Resources
There are currently three vaccines which have been granted emergency use authorization by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and which have been proven to be safe and effective at preventing COVID-19.
 
All individuals 12 years of age and older are now eligible to receive a free COVID-19 vaccine. The Town of Seabrook Island encourages all individuals to get vaccinated against COVID-19.
​

• SCDHEC COVID-19 Vaccine Information
• Find a Vaccine Location

 
Virtual Care and Testing Resources
MUSC Health and Roper St. Francis continue to offer free virtual care screenings to individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. If you or a loved one are experiencing a fever, cough, shortness of breath or other symptoms of COVID-19, you are encouraged to speak with a provider and, if necessary, be referred for a COVID-19 test. Use the promo code "COVID19" when you log in.
​

• MUSC Health Virtual Care Website​
• Roper St. Francis Virtual Care Website

 
Protect Yourself and Others
To minimize the risk of exposure and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals take the following precautions:

• Get Vaccinated: The CDC recommends COVID-19 vaccination for everyone 12 years of age and older to help protect against COVID-19.
• Wear a Face Covering or Mask: The CDC recommends that unvaccinated individuals should wear cloth face coverings or masks in public settings when social distancing is not being practiced.
• Social Distancing: Maintain at least six feet of separation between yourself and others who are not members of the same household. 
• Get Tested: Get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19, have traveled, attended large social/mass gatherings or been in crowded indoor settings, or have been referred to get testing by your healthcare provider or local health department.
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, use hand sanitizer, avoid of touching your face and mouth, and avoid shaking hands with others. 

More Information
For the most reliable information about COVID-19, including what to do if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, residents are strongly encouraged to visit official resources, including the SCDHEC and CDC websites.

Official updates from the Town of Seabrook Island will continue to be posted on the following channels:

• Town WEBSITE: www.townofseabrookisland.org
• Town TWITTER feed: www.twitter.com/seabrookislnd87
• Town FACEBOOK page: www.facebook.com/townofseabrookisland

 
Property owners and managers with rental guests should forward this information to their rental guests. Owners and managers of commercial establishments are also encouraged to share this information with their employees.

Mayor John Gregg announced on Fri. March 26th that Seabrook Island Town Hall will be closed through Fri. April 2nd as a precaution after a member of town staff tested positive for COVID-19. 

The employee began displaying symptoms of the illness on Tues. March 23rd and subsequently received a positive test result on Thu. March 25th. 

“The decision to close Town Hall was made out of an abundance of caution to protect the health and well-being of town staff and the public,” said Mayor Gregg. 

Town staff will be working remotely during the closure. Individuals needing to conduct business with the town may contact us by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org. A drop box will also be available outside town hall. ​

Governor Henry McMaster and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) announced that beginning Wed. January 13th, any South Carolina resident aged 70 and older, regardless of health status or pre-existing conditions, can begin scheduling their appointment to receive COVID-19 vaccine.

Based on COVID-19 vaccine data — doses received, administered, and appointments scheduled — South Carolina officials are confident the majority of people in Phase 1a who want to be vaccinated have either received their shots or have scheduled appointments to do so. There are currently 146,500 doses of Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine in the state, with 82,266 total doses already administered (a 56% utilization rate) plus 94,926 appointments scheduled by Phase 1a individuals to receive their vaccine over the next several weeks.
Additional steps to expedite access to additional South Carolinians will be made based on the use of the vaccine, the number of appointments made, and information on vaccine supply.
​
“Because we’ve seen a dramatic acceleration in vaccine usage and appointments in the last week, we have decided to speed things up again,” said Gov. Henry McMaster. “We know that those 70 and older are at the greatest risk of dying from COVID-19. Making sure they have expedited access to the vaccine will help save lives.”

“While COVID-19 vaccine is currently limited in South Carolina, like it is in all states, our providers continue to receive ongoing weekly shipments of vaccine from the federal government,” said Dr. Brannon Traxler, DHEC Interim Director of Public Health. “When evaluating supply versus demand and as the rate of vaccines coming into the state increases compared to the rate of appointments being scheduled, we believe it is appropriate to begin scheduling appointments for additional South Carolinians. Based on current data, the mortality rate from COVID-19 for those 70 and older in South Carolina is approximately 655 deaths per 100,000 individuals. For those under the age of 70, there are approximately 37 COVID-19 deaths per 100,000 individuals. This is a staggering comparison and illustrates why vaccinating this population next is critically important in our mission to save lives.”

More than 67 percent of COVID-19 deaths in South Carolina have been among those 70 and older. It’s estimated there are roughly 627,800 South Carolinians aged 70 or older, with many already receiving their vaccine through other Phase 1a eligibility.

What to Know

• Beginning Wed. January 13th, any South Carolina resident who’s at least 70 years old can schedule their appointment for receiving vaccine.
• Vaccines can only be administered by appointment. You can’t walk into a health care facility and ask for vaccine.
• Residents will be asked to provide a driver’s license or other form of ID at their appointment that confirms their age and, therefore, their eligibility to receive vaccine
• Individuals eligible to receive vaccine can schedule an appointment using DHEC's online Vaccine Locator Tool, which currently includes several major hospitals, seven DHEC sites, a DHEC mobile clinic, and 12 Doctor’s Cares locations. An additional 50 locations will be added to this list and available to provide vaccine by the beginning of next week. Individuals can also call the DHEC Care Line at 1 (855) 472-3432 for assistance with scheduling an appointment.
• As long-term care facility residents and staff continue to receive their Moderna vaccine through the federal Long-Term Care program, the state can soon redirect some Moderna vaccine from that program and make it available to others
• South Carolina is committed to making the limited supply of COVID-19 available to rural and unserved communities who have residents currently eligible to receive vaccine. This is occurring through:
  • an increased number of DHEC mobile clinic locations, where DHEC can bring the vaccine to communities without nearby locations offering vaccine
  • working with the South Carolina Vaccine Advisory Committee, Office of Rural Health, Office of Minority Affairs, South Carolina Hospital Association, South Carolina Medical Association, and other state and local partners to establish vaccine provider locations to rural and underserved communities
  • continuing to educate and inform rural, minority, and non-White communities about the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccine
• The Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine requires two shots separated by 21 days. The Moderna vaccine requires two shots separated by 28 days. You need to receive both shots of the same product; vaccine brands are not interchangeable.
• Both shots are needed for complete protection against COVID-19. After receiving both shots, the Pfizer-BioNTech and Moderna vaccines are 94-95 percent effective in preventing disease.
• Individuals will receive a vaccine card after receiving their first shot, reminding them when their second shot is due. Most providers are also issuing second-dose appointment reminders to patients by way of phone calls, emails or text messages.
• Getting vaccinated is one of many steps you can take to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Protection from COVID-19 is critically important because for some people, it can cause severe illness or death.
• Stopping a pandemic requires using all the tools available. Vaccines work with your immune system so your body will be ready to fight the virus if you are exposed. Other steps, like masks and physical distancing, help reduce your chance of being exposed to the virus or spreading it to others. 

As the worldwide pandemic and vaccine distribution continue to be quickly evolving situations, South Carolinians are reminded to stay updated by following trusted, verified sources for the latest information. DHEC continues to hold at least twice-weekly updates to our state’s media outlets as part of ongoing efforts to provide the most current information available. For the latest COVID-19 vaccine information, visit scdhec.gov/vaxfacts.

December 16, 2020 -- 12:00 pm

Emergency Ordinance Extended through February 14, 2021
During its monthly meeting on December 15th, Seabrook Island Town Council adopted Emergency Ordinance 2020-07, which repealed and replaced the provisions of Emergency Ordinance 2020-06, which was set to expire on December 22nd. Under the provisions of Emergency Ordinance 2020-07, the town:

• Extended the requirement for ALL PERSONS to wear a face covering when inside any portion of a business establishment that is open to the public or to customers;
• Extended the requirement for ALL EMPLOYEES to wear a face covering while engaged in face-to-face interactions with customers anywhere on the premises of a business establishment, including outdoor areas;
• Extended the requirement for ALL PERSONS to wear a face covering while waiting in line to enter a business establishment;
  
• Extended the requirement for ALL PERSONS in groups of two or more unrelated individuals while sharing a vehicle, boat, golf cart, or other mode of transportation which is provided by a business establishment for use on the premises of the business establishment to wear a face covering when separation of at least six feet between individuals cannot be maintained; 
  
• Extended the requirement for ALL PERSONS to wear a face covering while using the Seabrook Island Property Owners Association beach access points designated as Boardwalks 1-9, including associated wash stations; 
  
• Extended the requirement for ALL PERSONS attending an allowed gathering of more than ten people which is duly permitted pursuant to the temporary use permit provisions of the ordinance to wear a face covering;  
• Modified emergency restrictions for restaurants, bars and group congregations consistent with the Governor’s Emergency Order No. 2020-73;
• Extended emergency provisions to allow for remote participation and voting in Town Council, board and commission meetings;
• Grants Town Council the ability to approve the issuance of temporary use permits if it determines that the organizers or sponsors of the event or activity will undertake reasonable measures to minimize the risk of spread of COVID-19 within the Town in consequence of such event or activity;
• Extended the limitation of group congregations to no more than 10 individuals, except in instances where the Governor has expressly allowed larger gatherings by executive order; and
• Repealed Emergency Ordinance 2020-06 in its entirety.

 
Persons found guilty of violating the requirements of Emergency Ordinance 2020-07 are subject to fines ranging from $50.00 to $500.00 per violation, plus required statutory assessments. Businesses found guilty violating the ordinance shall be subject to fines ranging from $100.00 to $500.00 per violation, plus required assessments. In addition to fines, business establishments found guilty of violating the ordinance may also have their business license revoked or suspended. Each violation shall be treated as a separate offense.
 
The requirements of Emergency Ordinance 2020-07 were effective immediately upon adoption, and will remain in effect until February 14, 2021, unless repealed or extended by Town Council. A limited number of exceptions to the use of face coverings are provided in the ordinance, which may be viewed in its entirety by clicking here.
 
Alleged violations of the emergency ordinance may be reported to Seabrook Island Town Hall by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org.
 
Virtual Care and Testing Resources
MUSC Health and Roper St. Francis continue to offer free virtual care screenings to individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. If you or a loved one are experiencing a fever, cough, shortness of breath or other symptoms of COVID-19, you are encouraged to speak with a provider and, if necessary, be referred for a COVID-19 test. Use the promo code "COVID19" when you log in.

• MUSC Health Virtual Care Website​
• Roper St. Francis Virtual Care Website

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control maintains a list of upcoming COVID-19 testing locations around the state, some of which are available at no cost and without a referral or appointment.

• View COVID-19 Testing Locations (SCDHEC)

Protect Yourself and Others
To minimize the risk of exposure and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals take the following precautions:

• Wear a Face Covering or Mask: The CDC recommends – and town ordinance now requires – the wearing cloth face coverings or masks in public settings.
• Social Distancing: Maintain at least six feet of separation between yourself and others. 
• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer regularly; avoid touching your face and mouth; and avoid shaking hands with others. 
• Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel, especially to areas of high concentrations of cases of infection. 
• Limit Contact with the Sick and Elderly: Cease visits to nursing homes and other extended care facilities, except in the case of end-of-life circumstances. 

More Information
For general questions about COVID-19, please contact the SCDHEC Care Line at (855) 472-3432. Staff will be available to answer calls from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm seven days a week.

For the most reliable information about COVID-19, including what to do if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, residents are strongly encouraged to visit official resources, including the SCDHEC and CDC websites.

Official updates from the Town of Seabrook Island will continue to be posted on the following channels:

• Town WEBSITE: www.townofseabrookisland.org
• Town TWITTER feed: www.twitter.com/seabrookislnd87
• Town FACEBOOK page: www.facebook.com/townofseabrookisland

 
Property owners and managers with rental guests should forward this information to their rental guests. Owners and managers of commercial establishments are also encouraged to share this information with their employees.

August 31, 2020 -- 5:00 pm

Mask Ordinance Extended through October 22nd; Masks Required on all Boardwalks
During its monthly meeting on August 25th, Seabrook Island Town Council adopted Emergency Ordinance 2020-05, which repealed and replaced the provisions of its two prior emergency ordinances. Under the provisions of Emergency Ordinance 2020-05, the town:

• Extended the requirement for ALL PERSONS to wear a face covering when inside any portion of a business establishment that is open to the public or to customers;
• Extended the requirement for ALL EMPLOYEES to wear a face covering while engaged in face-to-face interactions with customers anywhere on the premises of a business establishment, including outdoor areas;
• Extended the requirement for ALL PERSONS to wear a face covering while waiting in line to enter a business establishment;
• Required ALL PERSONS to wear a face covering on all SIPOA Boardwalks (BW# 1-9) and all associated wash stations (NEW);
• Modified emergency restrictions for restaurants, bars and other establishments, consistent with the Governor’s Emergency Order No. 2020-50;
• Modified emergency restrictions on gatherings, consistent with the Governor’s Emergency Order No. 2020-50;
• Extended emergency provisions to allow for remote participation and voting in Town Council, board and commission meetings;
• Extended the prohibition on the issuance of all temporary use permits through October 25, 2020;
• Limited group congregations to no more than 10 individuals, except in instances where the Governor has expressly allowed larger gatherings by executive order; and
• Repealed all prior executive orders and emergency ordinances.

 
Persons found guilty of violating the requirements of Emergency Ordinance 2020-05 are subject to fines ranging from $50.00 to $500.00 per violation, plus required statutory assessments. Businesses found guilty violating the ordinance shall be subject to fines ranging from $100.00 to $500.00 per violation, plus required assessments. In addition to fines, business establishments found guilty of violating the ordinance may also have their business license revoked or suspended. Each violation shall be treated as a separate offense.
 
The requirements of Emergency Ordinance 2020-05 were effective immediately upon adoption, and will remain in effect until October 25th, unless repealed or extended by Town Council. A limited number of exceptions to the use of face coverings are provided in the ordinance, which may be viewed in its entirety by clicking here.
 
Alleged violations of the emergency ordinance may be reported to Seabrook Island Town Hall by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org.
 
Virtual Care and Testing Resources
MUSC Health and Roper St. Francis continue to offer free virtual care screenings to individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. If you or a loved one are experiencing a fever, cough, shortness of breath or other symptoms of COVID-19, you are encouraged to speak with a provider and, if necessary, be referred for a COVID-19 test. Use the promo code "COVID19" when you log in.

• MUSC Health Virtual Care Website​
• Roper St. Francis Virtual Care Website

The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control maintains a list of upcoming COVID-19 testing locations around the state, some of which are available at no cost and without a referral or appointment.

• View COVID-19 Testing Locations (SCDHEC)

Protect Yourself and Others
To minimize the risk of exposure and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals take the following precautions:

• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, use hand sanitizer, avoid of touching your face and mouth, and avoid shaking hands with others. 
• Social Distancing: Maintain at least six feet of separation between yourself and others. 
• Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel, especially to areas of high concentrations of cases of infection. 
• Limit Contact with the Sick and Elderly: Cease visits to nursing homes and other extended care facilities, except in the case of end-of-life circumstances. 
• Wear a Face Covering or Mask: The CDC recommends – and town ordinance now requires – the wearing cloth face coverings or masks in public settings.

More Information
For general questions about COVID-19, please contact the SCDHEC Care Line at (855) 472-3432. Staff will be available to answer calls from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm seven days a week.

For the most reliable information about COVID-19, including what to do if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, residents are strongly encouraged to visit official resources, including the SCDHEC and CDC websites.

Official updates from the Town of Seabrook Island will continue to be posted on the following channels:

• Town WEBSITE: www.townofseabrookisland.org
• Town TWITTER feed: www.twitter.com/seabrookislnd87
• Town FACEBOOK page: www.facebook.com/townofseabrookisland

 
Property owners and managers with rental guests should forward this information to their rental guests. Owners and managers of commercial establishments are also encouraged to share this information with their employees.

July 1, 2020 -- 12:00 pm

Face Coverings Required at All Business Establishments Beginning July 1st
During an emergency meeting on June 30th, Seabrook Island Town Council adopted Emergency Ordinance 2020-03, which requires the use of face coverings at all "business establishments" within the town. The term "business establishment" is broadly defined and includes "any enterprise that sells or offers goods, merchandise or services to its customers through its employees, independent contractors associated with the business, or volunteers acting on behalf of the enterprise.” The term includes “sole proprietorships, joint ventures, partnerships, corporations, or any other form of legal entity whether for profit or not for profit, including those referenced and identified as a food provider." This definition includes both "public" and "private" entities as long as they are selling or offering goods, merchandise or services to customers. For the avoidance of doubt, the ordinance applies to all entities inside AND outside the gate, including: Town Hall; SIPOA facilities (including the Lake House); Seabrook Island Club facilities; Bohicket Marina; St. Christopher Camp and Conference Center; and all restaurants, offices and retail stores.
 
The term "face covering" is defined as a "cloth, fabric, or other soft or permeable material, without holes, that covers both the mouth and nose, and which effectively contains the expulsion of respiratory droplets by an individual when coughing, sneezing or talking" and includes "surgical masks, N-95 respirators, face shields, handmade masks, bandanas, and neck gaiters."
 
Under Emergency Ordinance 2020-03, a face covering is REQUIRED in the following situations:

• Within any portion of a building that is open to the public or to customers of the establishment, ALL PERSONS must wear a face covering. (A face covering is not required in any portion of a building that is NOT open to the public or to customers of the establishment. For example, if customers are limited to the lobby only, a mask is only required within the lobby.)
• ALL PERSONS waiting in line to enter a business establishment must wear a face covering. (This requirement applies to everyone waiting to enter an establishment, including those who maintain at least 6’ separation, as well as individuals who are members of the same household.)
• Business establishments shall require ALL EMPLOYEES to wear face coverings while engaged in face-to-face interactions with customers. (This requirement applies to all employees on the premises of the establishment who are engaged in face-to-face interactions with customers, regardless of whether the interaction occurs indoors or outdoors.)  

In addition, each business establishment must post conspicuous signage at all customer entrances to buildings notifying customers that the use of face coverings is mandated by law.
 
Under Emergency Ordinance 2020-03, a face covering is ENCOURAGED, though not required, in the following situations:

• While participating in gatherings of ten or fewer people, when separation of at least six feet between individuals who do not occupy a common residence is not being practiced. (This requirement applies town wide, including the beach. As a reminder, groups of more than 10 people remain prohibited under Emergency Ordinance 2020-02.)
• While persons who are employees of a business establishment are within areas of a business establishment NOT open to customers, but where interactions with other persons can occur. (For example, a private office occupied only by an employee, a conference room used only by employees, etc.)
• While any person is being transported in a vehicle with any other person who is not a member of the same household.
• All persons using SIPOA beach access points designated as 1-9, including associated wash stations. (Due to high traffic volumes during the summer months, as well as the narrow width of all boardwalks, individuals are strongly encouraged to wear masks when using beach access points.)

 
Persons found guilty of violating Emergency Ordinance 2020-03 are subject to a fine of $50.00 per violation, plus required statutory assessments. Businesses found guilty of not requiring employees to wear face coverings shall be subject to a fine of $100.00 per day, plus required statutory assessments. Any business establishment found guilty of violating any provision contained herein may, in addition to any fines, have its business license revoked or suspended. Each violation shall be treated as a separate offense.
 
The requirements of Emergency Ordinance 2020-03 will be effective as of Wed. July 1st at 12:00 pm, and will remain in effect until August 30th, unless repealed earlier by Town Council. A limited number of exceptions to the ordinance, including individuals who cannot wear a mask due to health or religious reasons, children under 5 years of age, or while eating, drinking or swimming, are provided. For a full list of exceptions, please click to the PDF document below.
 
Alleged violations of the emergency ordinance may be reported to Seabrook Island Town Hall by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org.
 
View Emergency Ordinance 2020-03 (PDF)
 
COVID-19 Data
On June 30th, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) reported a record number of new daily cases with 1,741 individuals testing positive across the state in a single day. This brings the total number of confirmed cases in the state to 36,297. According to SCDHEC, there have been 4,026 confirmed cases in Charleston County and 195 cases in the 29455 Zip Code, which contains Seabrook, Kiawah and Johns Islands. As of June 30th, there were 1,021 inpatient beds being occupied by patients who have either tested positive or are under investigation for COVID-19. SCDHEC also reported 17 additional deaths on Tuesday, bringing the statewide total to 735.
 
Virtual Care Resources
MUSC Health and Roper St. Francis are offering free virtual care screenings to individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. If you or a loved one are experiencing a fever, cough, shortness of breath or other symptoms of COVID-19, you are encouraged to speak with a provider and, if necessary, be referred for a COVID-19 test. Use the promo code "COVID19" when you log in.
​

• MUSC Health Virtual Care Website​
• Roper St. Francis Virtual Care Website

 
Protect Yourself and Others
To minimize the risk of exposure and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals take the following precautions:

• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, use hand sanitizer, avoid of touching your face and mouth, and avoid shaking hands with others. 
• Social Distancing: Maintain at least six feet of separation between yourself and others. 
• Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel, especially to areas of high concentrations of cases of infection. 
• Limit Contact with the Sick and Elderly: Cease visits to nursing homes and other extended care facilities, except in the case of end-of-life circumstances. 
• Wear a Face Covering or Mask: The CDC recommends – and town ordinance now requires – the wearing of face coverings or masks in public settings.

More Information
For general questions about COVID-19, please contact the SCDHEC Care Line at (855) 472-3432. Staff will be available to answer calls from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm seven days a week.

For the most reliable information about COVID-19, including what to do if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, residents are strongly encouraged to visit official resources, including the SCDHEC and CDC websites.

Official updates from the Town of Seabrook Island will continue to be posted on the following channels:

• Town WEBSITE: www.townofseabrookisland.org
• Town TWITTER feed: www.twitter.com/seabrookislnd87
• Town FACEBOOK page: www.facebook.com/townofseabrookisland

 
Property owners and managers with rental guests should forward this information to their rental guests. Owners and managers of commercial establishments are also encouraged to share this information with their employees.

June 29, 2020 -- 7:00 pm
​
COVID-19 Data
Since our last update, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases in the State of South Carolina has continued to grow at an alarming rate. Just 3 weeks ago, the state was experiencing an average of more than 400 new cases per day over the preceding 7 days. Over the last week, however, that number has jumped threefold to an average of more than 1,200 cases per day. While testing has increased over the intervening weeks, the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC) has noted a significant increase in the percentage of tests coming back positive, as well as a dramatic rise in hospitalizations, both of which indicate the presence of community spread.
 
According to SCDHEC, there have been more than 3,600 confirmed cases in Charleston County and 177 in the 29455 Zip Code, which contains Seabrook, Kiawah and Johns Islands. Many have asked how many cases have been confirmed on Seabrook Island. The short answer is: SCDHEC does not publish case counts for municipalities, so we don’t know for certain. (And yes, we have all asked!)
 
South Carolina is currently experiencing one of the fastest growth rates in the country. Last week, the governors of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut implemented a mandatory 14-day quarantine for visitors entering their respective states from areas with significant community spread, including South Carolina. This is a dramatic change of events since March, when Governor Henry McMaster required a mandatory 14-day quarantine for visitors entering the state of South Carolina from New York, New Jersey and Connecticut.
 
The best way to protect yourself is to assume 1) every person you come into contact with has the virus, and 2) you yourself have the virus. To minimize the risk of exposure and to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that individuals take the following precautions:

• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, use hand sanitizer, avoid of touching your face and mouth, and avoid shaking hands with others. 
• Social Distancing: Maintain at least six feet of separation between yourself and others. 
• Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel, especially to areas of high concentrations of cases of infection. 
• Limit Contact with the Sick and Elderly: Cease visits to nursing homes and other extended care facilities, except in the case of end-of-life circumstances. 
• Wear a Face Covering or Mask: The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings or masks in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (such as grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

 
Town Council to Hold Emergency Meeting on Tues. June 30th
Seabrook Island Town Council will hold an emergency meeting on Tuesday, June 30th, at 10:00 am. During the emergency meeting, Town Council will consider an emergency ordinance to require the wearing of face coverings at all business establishments within the town.

Individuals who wish to submit a public comment on the proposed emergency ordinance may do so in advance of the meeting using one of the options listed below. Written comments will be accepted until 9:00 a.m. on the day of the meeting.

• Online: Public Comment Portal
• Email: fallbritton@townofseabrookisland.org 
• Drop Off: 2001 Seabrook Island Road, Seabrook Island, SC 29455

​Consistent with recommendations from the CDC related to “social distancing,” the Town of Seabrook Island is requesting that members of the public who wish to observe this meeting participate remotely by using one of the following options:

• ​​Watch Live: Live Stream Video (YouTube)
• Listen by Phone: (712) 770-5505; Access Code 659-714

​Social Distancing on the Beach
As we gear up for the busiest weekend of the year, residents and visitors are reminded that the town remains under a state of emergency due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. While the beaches of Seabrook Island remain open for recreational activities, groups of more than 10 individuals are currently prohibited. In addition, all individuals, regardless of whether visiting the beach alone or in a group, should practice “social distancing” by maintaining a minimum separation of 6 feet from others. The town’s beach patrol and code enforcement officers are authorized to enforce these requirements and may order the dispersal of large groups. Violators are also subject to fines of up to $500.00 per day (plus state assessments and surcharges) upon conviction.

Seabrook Island Town Hall Remains Open to the Public
Seabrook Island Town Hall remains open to the public during regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm). To maintain social distancing, no more than two customers are allowed inside the building at a time. Public access is limited to the lobby area only and public restrooms will remain closed. Beginning on Tuesday, June 30th, all individuals entering town hall must wear a mask or face covering. All public meetings – including Town Council, board, commission and committee meetings – will continue to be held “virtually” for the foreseeable future.
 
The town encourages residents, property owners, business owners and contractors to continue using “virtual services” to the greatest extent possible. For assistance during normal operating hours, please contact us by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org. For your convenience, the town has also located a drop box on the front porch at Town Hall.

More Information
For general questions about COVID-19, please contact the SCDHEC Care Line at (855) 472-3432. Staff will be available to answer calls from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm seven days a week.

For the most reliable information about COVID-19, including what to do if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, residents are strongly encouraged to visit official resources, including the SCDHEC and CDC websites.

Official updates from the Town of Seabrook Island will continue to be posted on the following channels:

• Town WEBSITE: www.townofseabrookisland.org
• Town TWITTER feed: www.twitter.com/seabrookislnd87
• Town FACEBOOK page: www.facebook.com/townofseabrookisland

 
Property owners and managers with rental guests should forward this information to their rental guests. Owners and managers of commercial establishments are also encouraged to share this information with their employees.

June 10, 2020 -- 4:00 pm
​
COVID-19 Data
Over the last several weeks, Governor Henry McMaster lifted many of the restrictions that were put into place earlier this year to combat the spread of COVID-19. The Governor’s “Home or Work Order” was repealed on May 4, 2020; since that time, most restaurants, businesses, amenities and attractions have been permitted to reopen across the state.
 
As our lives begin to resume some sense of “normalcy,” it’s easy to assume that the worst is behind us. However, recent data from the SCDHEC indicates a significant increase in confirmed COVID-19 cases across the state over the last few weeks.
 
At the time the Governor’s “Home or Work Order” was repealed, the state had confirmed approximately 164 new cases per day, on average, over the preceding 7-day period. This number remained relatively flat during the two-weeks following repeal. In recent weeks, however, the number of confirmed cases has risen dramatically. As of June 9th, the state had experienced an average of more than 400 new cases per day over the preceding 7 days, an increase of nearly 250%. [See Chart Below]
 
During a countywide conference call on Wed. June 10th, representatives from SCDHEC indicated that a portion of this increase can be attributed to higher testing rates across the state. However, SCDHEC also noted an increase in community spread resulting from reduced social distancing. Dr. Katie Richardson of SCDHEC characterized this increase as “alarming” and noted that the growth rate for new cases in the state of South Carolina is currently the fourth highest in the country.
 
As we move forward into the summer months, the town reminds everyone – residents, property owners, visitors and businesses – to remain vigilant and adhere the following recommendations from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC):

• Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds, use hand sanitizer, avoid of touching your face and mouth, and avoid shaking hands with others. 
• Social Distancing: Maintain at least six feet of separation between yourself and others. 
• Travel: Avoid unnecessary travel, especially to areas of high concentrations of cases of infection. 
• Limit Contact with the Sick and Elderly: Cease visits to nursing homes and other extended care facilities, except in the case of end-of-life circumstances. 
• Wear a Face Covering or Mask: The CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings or masks in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (such as grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.

State Health Agencies Issue Joint Statement
On Tuesday, June 9th, SCDHEC, the S.C. Hospital Association (SCHA), S.C. Medical Association (SCMA) and S.C. Office of Rural Health (SCORH), issued the following joint statement:
 
“DHEC, SCHA, SCMA and SCORH have come together to strongly urge all South Carolinians to actively help reduce the spread of COVID-19 and save the lives of our fellow residents by practicing physical social distancing and properly using face masks.
 
There is rapidly growing medical evidence that the use of face masks along with social distancing can greatly reduce the transmission of the COVID-19 virus in public spaces and places where people at higher risk of severe illness and death from this virus are likely to be present. We must all commit to wearing face masks in public spaces — if we all wear them, we’ll all be protected.
 
Since the beginning of this public health crisis, our organizations jointly committed to protect the health and welfare of all South Carolinians throughout this pandemic. We’re calling on you for your continued help. 
 
Please join the leaders and staff of DHEC, SCHA, SCMA and SCORH and the physicians and hospital systems we represent in protecting the lives of all South Carolinians by wearing face masks in confined public settings and maintaining at least six feet between those who are not members of your household.
 
Together, we can turn the tide on the COVID-19 pandemic and save lives in South Carolina.”
 
This joint statement follows recently updated guidance from the CDC and World Health Organization (WHO) that clearly emphasizes the importance of face masks and social distancing in preventing the spread of COVID-19.
 
Update on Town Events
As a result of the ongoing pandemic, several events and activities within the town have been cancelled or rescheduled:

• Disaster Awareness Day: The annual Kiawah-Seabrook Disaster Awareness Day event, which was scheduled for June 11th at the Kiawah Conference Center, has been CANCELLED.
• Fourth of July Fireworks: The Fourth of July fireworks display, held annually at the Seabrook Island Club and sponsored by the Town of Seabrook Island, has been CANCELLED.
• Kick It at Bohicket: The Bohicket Marina Merchants Association has confirmed that this year’s Kick It at Bohicket events, held every Tuesday between Memorial Day and Labor Day, have been CANCELLED.
• Free Shredding Event: The town’s spring shredding event, which was originally scheduled for April at Town Hall, has been RESCHEDULED to July 17th from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm.
• Bohicket Invitational Billfish Tournament: The Bohicket Invitational Billfish Tournament, which was scheduled to take place May 6th-9th at Bohicket Marina, has been RESCHEDULED to July 29th-August 1st.

 
Social Distancing on the Beach
The beaches of Seabrook Island remain open for recreational activities. When visiting the beach, beachgoers are reminded that groups of more than 10 individuals are currently prohibited. All individuals, regardless of whether visiting the beach alone or in a group, should practice “social distancing” by maintaining a minimum separation of 6 feet from others. The town’s beach patrol and code enforcement officers are authorized to enforce these requirements and may order the dispersal of large groups. Violators are also subject to fines of up to $500.00 per day (plus state assessments and surcharges) upon conviction.

Seabrook Island Town Hall is Open to the Public
Seabrook Island Town Hall reopened to the public for regular business hours (Monday through Friday, 8:00 am to 4:00 pm) Mon. May 18th. To maintain social distancing, no more than two customers will be allowed inside the building at a time. Public access will be limited to the lobby area only and public restrooms will remain closed. The town has implemented enhanced cleaning practices; however, visitors are encouraged to wear masks and gloves for their own protection. All public meetings – including Town Council, board, commission and committee meetings – will continue to be held “virtually” for the foreseeable future.
 
The town encourages residents, property owners, business owners and contractors to continue using “virtual services” to the greatest extent possible. For assistance during normal operating hours, please contact us by phone at (843) 768-9121 or by email at info@townofseabrookisland.org. For your convenience, the town has also located a drop box on the front porch at Town Hall.

More Information
For general questions about COVID-19, please contact the SCDHEC Care Line at (855) 472-3432. Staff will be available to answer calls from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm seven days a week.

For the most reliable information about COVID-19, including what to do if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms, residents are strongly encouraged to visit official resources, including the SCDHEC and CDC websites.

Official updates from the Town of Seabrook Island will continue to be posted on the following channels:

• Town WEBSITE: www.townofseabrookisland.org
• Town TWITTER feed: www.twitter.com/seabrookislnd87
• Town FACEBOOK page: www.facebook.com/townofseabrookisland

 
Property owners and managers with rental guests should forward this information to their rental guests. Owners and managers of commercial establishments are also encouraged to share this information with their employees.