REDINGTON BEACH, Fla. — Redington Beach officials are stepping up enforcement of the use of tents on their shoreline.

What You Need To Know

  • Redington Beach officials are working to amend an ordinance to prohibit tents on the beach

  • The proposed changes also would ban animals and tobacco on the beach

  • Local residents argue tents can help keep people safe in the sun

City leaders said keeping tents off the beach is not new, but those who live by the beach say the enforcement is new.

Luci Hart said despite living next to the beach, she didn't realize having a tent wasn't allowed until the police stopped by.

"One, I didn't know about the ordinance the first time," she said. "Secondly, I'm not aware of any beach that bans tents, so it was enlightening to know, but I'm a little challenged about the reasoning."

In the last week, Hart said the police cited her three times for having a tent up.

She added the police were polite and didn't fine her, but believes the recent enforcement is happening because some neighbors don't want to see tents on the beach.

"Saying my tent behind my property was blocking (the neighbor's) view and there's no way my tent would block his view but the police had to respond," said Hart.

Tara Wexler also lives next to the beach and said she's frustrated by the recent enforcement.

She said the language of the current ordinance is confusing and changes need to be made.

“It’s very vague on whether or not I can put up a tent on my own or a canopy on my own property versus someone who’s coming to the beach for the day,” said Wexler. “I think they want to clarify that, but it’s going to be a ban for everyone.”

Officials say there is a proposal to amend the current ordinance on June 5.

If approved, it would ban tobacco, animals, and the erection or use of tents, with exceptions given to parks.

Both Hart and Wexler said this proposal is not a solution and have signed a petition in opposition to the ban.

"You can say the tents have to be open air tents, and all beach equipment have to be removed at dusk," said Hart. "I mean, there are things you can do to be more reasonable about it instead of just a blanket ban on tents."

The June 5 meeting discussing the ordinance is open to the public.