The legality of getting married in Myrtle Beach can actually be a bit complicated. So I have made a list of the top 5 most important things to know about the laws in only in the state but also local laws. Sometimes these laws can actually confuse even the locals, so take time to read each one and the tips and tricks I will be including.
- Couple Are Not Allowed To Be Married On the Myrtle Beach City Beaches.
This county law actually throws off a lot of couples. Before deciding to get married in any of the cities or towns close to Myrtle Beach whether in Horry county or Georgetown, please call the local authorities to check on local laws. Most other beaches allow couples to get married. North Myrtle Beach actually gets most of the beach wedding business due to chapels and the city allowing the beach ceremonies. However, if you have your heart set on a Myrtle Beach wedding then there are exceptions to the rules. Some hotels and rental houses actually own there part of the beach and so they are allowed to have beach ceremonies. You can also have a Myrtle Beach ceremony as long as the officiant is not getting paid for the wedding. The law technically says that "commercially produced weddings" are not allowed. This means that chapels, and wedding planners, and paid officiants can't really perform the wedding. So if you have a friend that is allowed to perform S.C. weddings and is willing to do it for free then you are allowed.
2. A State Notary Is Allowed To Perform Weddings
Not everyone is religious and thankfully S.C. has allowed notaries to perform civil weddings. This is also really great for a couple on a budget, a couple wanting to elope, or even an nonreligious or interfaith couple. You can find plenty of Officiants that are ready at a moments notice and they don't made you go through counciling. However, if you decide to go with a S.C. Notary make sure they are up to date with the state.
3. Glass And Fire Is Not Allowed On The Beach
I know some of you may think, well that is common sense. However, many couples forget that their sand ceremony, memorial ceremony, etc. contains glass bottles, or vases. Weddings on the beach can be so beautiful, but please don't set yourself up to have a fine and a possible wedding delay. You can find plastic counterparts at many of the local stores. Fire limitations is really a thought that needs to be considered because plenty of couples want that beach luau look. You can decorate with tiki torches and candles, but please do not light them! Myrtle Beach can actually be very windy so the potential dangers of a fire on the beach can be tremendous. Not only that but even if fire was allowed the wind would blow out any candle ceremony.
4. It Is Cheaper To Get Your Marriage License In Another County
Couples get so excited to get married at the beach that they forget that a wedding destination may charge more for a marriage license if you are not a local. County residents only have to pay 50.00 but out of county pays 75.00 and out of state couples have to pay 100 dollars! A simple solution is available. If you live in the state then go to your local county and apply for the marriage license there. If you are an out of state couple then simple go one county down, Georgetown County, to apply for the marriage license.
5. You Must Wait 24 Hours To Get Married
After applying for a marriage license, the state mandates that you wait 24 hours before being allowed to receive the papers to perform the ceremony. Some elopers may see this as a nuisance, but one day waiting isn't that bad. Plus this law allows some people to rethink in case the marriage application was done during a less than stellar mental moment, i.e. drunk couples.
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