SURFSIDE BEACH, SC (WBTW) – Unlike most coastal communities in Horry County, the town doesn’t allow any dogs on its beaches almost all summer long, but some residents want Surfside to unleash the restriction.

Even though Surfside is called “the family beach,” some residents say they’re upset they can’t walk the family dog on the shore. 

“I see so many dogs on the street being walked by owners,” said Surfside resident Nick Delaplane.

Several people asked the town council to change the policy of banning dogs and other domestic pets on the beach during summer tourist season. Right now, pets can’t go on the beach from May 15 to September 15.

Residents at Monday night’s meeting say they want to walk their dogs after 5 p.m. or early in the morning, when the beach is less busy. 

“When we walk our dog on the beach, we always have a garbage bag with us,” said one resident. “Every night, we end up with a garbage bag full that we take care of, along with walking our dog and picking up after him.”

Some say the rules are fine now because of irresponsible dog owners.

“Those who don’t put their dogs on leashes, dogs run free and they really do startle people,” said Surfside resident Boyd Sadler. “If nothing else, they startle people.”

Cities like Myrtle Beach and North Myrtle Beach allow leashed dogs on their beaches in the summer on early mornings and evenings.

Town council members say they wish all dog owners could be trusted to clean up.

“It’s one thing stepping on a beer can,” said council member Ron Ott, who did voice his support for changing the rules. “It’s another one stepping on a big dog lump.”

“It is an issue and it won’t go away,” said mayor Bob Childs. “In the wintertime, you don’t even have to go on the beach. You better be careful where you walk on the sidewalk on Ocean Boulevard.”

Town council did not vote on any change to the beach rules and no change has been proposed yet.

Surfside’s council also took another step towards rebuilding its pier, which was nearly destroyed after Hurricane Matthew.

The council gave final approval to using $4 million in bonds to pay contractors upfront. FEMA is giving Surfside $10 million to rebuild the pier after the 2016 storm, but the bonds allow the town to pay crews much faster.

The council also gave final approval to next year’s budget, which doesn’t have any tax increases.