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Roofing When You Need a Reliable Roofer

Roofing in Folly Beach, SC

If you had to choose, what would you say is the most important part of the home you're living in? Some people might point to the kitchen where you eat your meals. Others might choose the living room, where family gatherings and Sunday night football stays on the TV. However, if you were to ask a builder, they would likely argue that your roof is the most crucial part of your home. Your roof acts as a protective shield for everything beneath it, especially your most prized treasure: your family. Without a solid and reliable roof, you could find yourself exposed to the elements or worse. Just imagine navigating life with a worn-out roof in dire need of repairs.

One moment, you could be enjoying a cozy evening with loved ones, and the next, you're rushing to Indigo Hall Assisted Living and Memory Care in Folly Beach, SC because a family member was injured during an intense thunderstorm. Everything from pests to rain and strong winds could easily find their way inside. Even small holes and minor repairs that you put off can quickly snowball into bigger issues during the summer and winter months when Lowcountry storms and pests wreak havoc on old roofs, creating major problems.

Fortunately, a quality roofing company in Folly Beach, SC like Ashley River Roofing can repair existing damage, perform maintenance to prevent further damage, and even install a new roof on your home. But with so many roofing companies to choose from in The Palmetto State, why should you go with Ashley River Roofing?

The Ashley River Roofing Difference

Ashley River Roofing is a trusted roofing contractor in Folly Beach, SC dedicated to delivering the solutions you need with service that leaves a lasting impression. We don't just serve our customers; we build relationships that foster trust and encourage their continued patronage for all their roofing needs.

Roofing Folly Beach, SC

Unlike other roofing companies in our service area, we pride ourselves on being a true one-call-does-it-all roofer. As both roof installers and technicians, we provide a full range of services, including:

  • Roof Repairs in Folly Beach, SC
  • Roof Maintenance
  • Roof Inspections
  • Roof Installation
  • Roof Replacement
  • Support Services for Roofing Materials
  • Emergency Roofing Services

Whether your roof is made of metal or asphalt shingles or more traditional materials like clay and concrete tiles, we have you covered. In fact, at Ashley River Roofing, we make it a point to provide roofing services for our clients when they need them the most, like during an emergency or bad rain storm. To that end, we also offer exterior solutions such as siding repair and maintenance, along with rain gutter replacements and installations to keep your home in top shape.

Local Roofing Services in Folly Beach, SC from True Local Professionals

Because, the truth is we don't just talk about serving our community - we live here, just like you. Our roots run deep in Folly Beach, SC. Our owner is a local, and all our technicians call this city and its surrounding areas home.

By serving our community, we see each day as an opportunity to improve life for everyone involved. When we work on your roof, we understand that we're keeping you and your loved ones safe and sound. Professional problem-solving is essential to our ongoing success here in the Lowcountry. That's the Ashley River Roofing difference.

Benefits of working with our roofing contractors include:

  • LocallyLocally Owned & Operated Roofing Company
  • Experience20+ Years of Experience
  • EmergencySame-Day and Emergency Services Available
  • SolutionsStreamlined Solutions Using Advanced Technology
  • ResidentialResidential and Commercial Roofing Expertise
  • EspanolSe Hable Espanol

Now that you know why so many home and business owners choose Ashley River Roofing, let's take a look at some of our most requested roofing services in South Carolina.

Roof Leak Repair: Eliminating Drips Before They Escalate

When the skies turn gray and the rain begins to pour, few things can stir up anxiety and frustration like discovering water damage on your ceiling. Roof leaks are a common issue that many homeowners face, but they don't have to keep you up at night.

Once the weather clears, don't hesitate to call Ashley River Roofing for top-notch roof repair in Folly Beach, SC. With years of experience, Ashley River Roofing delivers outstanding roofing solutions to residents throughout South Carolina. We pride ourselves on a blend of exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail, all backed by a commitment to old-school customer service.

 Roof Repair Folly Beach, SC
 Roof Installation Folly Beach, SC

How Does Ashley River Roofing Fix Roof Leaks?

We pinpoint the source of your leak, determine the underlying cause, and then employ premium materials, modern tools, and skilled workmanship to ensure a thorough fix. Addressing your issue promptly not only brings back your peace of mind but also reinstates your home's defenses, allowing your roof to protect you for many years to come.

What Causes Roof Leaks in South Carolina?

Over time, almost any roof can develop a leak. Exposure to the elements gradually wears down materials, leading to deterioration. Additionally, roofs can shift and settle as homes age and adapt. Accidents, such as hailstones or debris blowing in high winds, can also cause damage. Even the wind itself can lead to leaks by displacing or harming roofing materials. Regardless of the cause of your leak, count on Ashley River Roofing to fix the problem and restore your peace of mind.

Some of the most common causes of roof leaks in South Carolina include:

  • Standing Water
  • Missing or Damaged Roof Tiles or Shingles
  • Worn-Out or Aged Water Seals
  • Damage from UV Rays and the Sun
  • Compromised Roof Decking
  • Damaged Gutter Systems
  • Damage from Storms and Hurricanes
  • More

At Ashley River Roofing, we understand the unique needs of homeowners and business owners in South Carolina. We recognize that dealing with roof leaks can be overwhelming. That's especially true when local regulations and insurance claims are involved.

To help make your life a little easier, our roofing technicians are ready to help you through the insurance process. We're well-versed in the requirements set by local authorities, like the City of Folly Beach, SC and the Folly Beach, SC County Government. While we don't have direct partnerships with these entities, we make it a priority to ensure that all our repairs meet local building codes and standards.

The Emergency Roofer in Folly Beach, SC You Can Count On

Life is famously unpredictable, and this is especially true for homeowners. You never know when a powerful storm might strike, damaging your roof, or when a sudden mishap might cause a tree branch to crash down into your attic. But in the face of a true emergency, waiting to address such issues isn't an option. You need your roof to protect your family or business assets. When you need help ASAP, call Ashley River Roofing for quick, effective, and customer-focused emergency roof repairs.

Over the years, Ashley River Roofing has supported countless customers during some of their toughest times, delivering skilled repairs and friendly service that help ease their burden. We pride ourselves on responding quickly-often reaching your location to kick-start the repair or replacement process within just a few hours. We understand the urgency of your situation and handle it with the care it deserves.

 Local Roofing Contractors Folly Beach, SC

Emergency Roofing Contractors Ready for Anything

At Ashley River Roofing, we've seen just about every kind of roofing emergency you can think of. Perhaps more importantly, we've fixed these emergency issues with care and expertise. From major tropical storm damage to unexpected issues like a tree falling on your home, we're ready for anything. Some of the most common roofing emergencies we handle include:

  • Major Hail Damage
  • Tree Damage
  • Unexpected Roof Damage
  • Major Storm Damage
  • Collapsed Roof
  • Severely Damaged Roof Shingles and Tiles
  • Serious Roof Leaks

What Constitutes a Roofing Emergency?

When it comes to roofing, emergencies can strike without warning and demand prompt action to prevent further damage while safeguarding your property. A roofing emergency is a situation that needs immediate, professional attention to avert additional harm to your roof, your property, your family, or your assets. These emergencies can create safety hazards, endanger your roof's structural integrity, and lead to water infiltration, which can result in additional damage and even mold sickness.

Examples of a roofing emergency may include

 Roof Inspection Folly Beach, SC
Severe Structural Damage

Any signs of structural damage to the roof-including sagging, bowing, or visible cracks-should be treated as a roofing emergency. Such damage can jeopardize the roof's stability and create safety hazards for everyone in the building. If you find yourself in such a situation, call a roofing company in Folly Beach, SC like Ashley River Roofing immediately. That way, we can assess the extent of your roof damage and implement the necessary measures to prevent further deterioration or potential collapse of your roof.

 Roof Maintenance Folly Beach, SC
Roofing Materials Exposed

If a large part of your roofing materials-like shingles, tiles, or membranes-is missing, out of place, or exposed, it's classified as a roofing emergency. When roofing materials are left unprotected, your roof can become susceptible to water leaks, UV damage, and other harsh elements, which can lead to further wear and tear.

 Residential Roofing Folly Beach, SC
Catastrophic Weather Damage

Severe weather events like high winds, hailstorms, and heavy snowfall can cause serious damage to your roof. This might include issues such as damaged shingles or tiles, tears in the membrane, or even structural problems. If your roof has faced harsh weather and you notice signs of damage-like visible cracks, missing or shifted roofing materials or leaks-you've got a roofing emergency on your hands. Immediate attention is necessary to prevent further complications.

The First Choice for Roof Installation in Folly Beach, SC

When it comes to installing a new roof for your home, getting the job done right the first time out is crucial. That's why it's important to hire licensed professionals who can navigate the intricate and demanding process involved with replacing your roof. While it may feel like a significant investment, the long-term benefits certainly make it worthwhile. You'll enjoy enhanced safety, greater comfort, and an increase in your home's value. At Ashley River Roofing, we are your trusted choice for roof installations in South Carolina.

Our team of roofers has successfully completed hundreds of installation projects. We pride ourselves on upholding the highest standards for product durability, customer satisfaction, and quality workmanship. Instead, you can expect prompt service from friendly professionals. Whether you're looking to upgrade your existing roof or need a replacement due to damage, we're here to help every step of the way.

Our roofing contractors have the tools and experience to install a range of roofs, including:

Metal

Metal Roof Installation: Low Maintenance, Long-Lasting, Superior Protection, Energy Efficient

Asphalt

Asphalt Roof Installation: Popular, Versatile, Cost-Effective, Visually Appealing

Commercial

Commercial Roof Installation: Energy Efficient, Durable, UV Resistant, Purpose-Built for Your Business Needs

Historic

Historic Roof Installation: Quality Materials Like Slate, Meticulous Attention to Detail, Long-Lasting, Historic Standards Upheld

When Do Property Owners in South Carolina Need to Replace Their Roofs?

At Ashley River Roofing, one of the most frequent questions we receive is, "How can I tell when it's time to replace my roof?" This isn't always a straightforward answer, as each roofing structure and replacement situation is unique. Roofs face harsh weather conditions-such as intense heat, strong winds, freezing temperatures, and heavy rain-that can wear down their protective layers. While some roofs can last for up to 25 years, shingles and other materials can deteriorate over time, becoming brittle, cracked, torn, or even disintegrated.

If you're wondering when you should replace the roof on your home or business, keep these red flags in mind:

Curled or Cupped Shingles

You'll need a decent view of your roof to check for these signs. Always use caution when using a ladder or getting on top of your roof. Curling and cupping, which often look similar, occur when the edges of your shingles start to lift and curl upwards. Meanwhile, clawing is characterized by the center of a shingle rising while the ends remain fixed to the roof. None of these signs are positive, so if you notice them, it might be time to schedule a roof inspection.

 Commercial Roofing Folly Beach, SC

Sagging Roof

A sagging roof usually means there's an underlying structural issue plaguing your home. These hazards often necessitate replacing your roof. This problem usually stems from water damage or a compromised rafter. It's crucial to bring in a licensed and insured roofing company, such as Ashley River Roofing, to take care of the situation. To accurately assess the problem, the contractor may need to strip away the shingles and the plywood sheathing underneath.

 Roofing Services Folly Beach, SC

Your Neighbors Are Installing New Roofs

If you're driving through your neighborhood and see one or more roofing contractors working, take some time to check your own roof. Homes in the same area are often built around the same time, using similar materials purchased in bulk by the builder. This means that the roofs of these houses usually wear out at a comparable pace. So, if you notice your neighbors getting their roofs replaced, it might be time for you to think about doing the same.

 New Roof Folly Beach, SC

Your Roof is Almost Ancient

How old is your roof? If it's over 25 years old, it's likely nearing the end of its life. Typically, an asphalt roof lasts around 20 to 25 years. Once you've passed that mark, it's wise to start thinking about replacing your aging roof.

 Emergency Roofing Folly Beach, SC

Don't Forget to Look Inside

It may sound surprising, but checking for signs of disrepair inside your home can be just as important as inspecting the exterior. Spaces like your attic often reveal damage more clearly than those outside. Start by grabbing a strong flashlight and carefully look for any water streaks, stains, or drips. Additionally, keep an eye out for beams of light coming through your roof. If you notice any of these indicators, it's likely that your roof has leaks and may need to be replaced.

 Storm Damage Roof Repair Folly Beach, SC

You Can Rely on Ashley River Roofing for Quality Service, Day or Night

Are you searching for a reliable roofing contractor to protect your most valuable asset? At Ashley River Roofing, we take great pride in our craftsmanship and unwavering dedication to our customers. As a family-owned business, we understand how crucial your roof is for your family's safety. We also recognize that budgets can be tight.

Whether you need minor roof repairs in Folly Beach, SC or a complete roof replacement, our licensed professionals are here for you. No project is too big or too small; we're committed to delivering quality work with integrity and a friendly smile. Reach out to our office today to get started.

 Affordable Roofing Folly Beach, SC

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Latest News in Folly Beach, SC

5 Most Shark Infested Beaches In South Carolina

The beautiful emerald-green waters off the coast of South Carolina draw millions of sun-loving beachgoers every year. But tourists aren’t the only visitors who flock to the beaches for sun and surf; sharks are drawn to the state’s estuaries, piers, and fishing holes, where schools of fish provide an endless buffet. But sharks tend to get a bad rap, thanks partly to the 1975 cult classic Jaws, whose unofficial tagline, &ldquo...

The beautiful emerald-green waters off the coast of South Carolina draw millions of sun-loving beachgoers every year. But tourists aren’t the only visitors who flock to the beaches for sun and surf; sharks are drawn to the state’s estuaries, piers, and fishing holes, where schools of fish provide an endless buffet. But sharks tend to get a bad rap, thanks partly to the 1975 cult classic Jaws, whose unofficial tagline, “Don’t Go in the Water,” frightened swimmers out of the Atlantic Ocean for years. In reality, sharks rarely attack, with only a few species, like the great white, tiger, and bull shark, being territorial and aggressive.

According to the International Shark Attack File (ISAF) at the Florida Museum of Natural History, 36 “unprovoked” shark bites were in the US in 2023. An “unprovoked” shark bite occurs when a shark attacks a person in the ocean without being harassed by someone attempting to feed or touch a shark. South Carolina had two reported shark bites in 2023, ranking behind Florida and Hawaii.

Myrtle Beach

Myrtle Beach is a popular South Carolina vacation hotspot, with more than 17 million visitors attracted to its 60 miles of beautiful sandy beaches, famous boardwalk, vibrant nightlife, and Southern hospitality. The Myrtle Beach area is called the Grand Strand and comprises 14 communities along the South Carolina coast. It is known for frequent shark sightings, particularly during summer. Several species, including blacktip and spinner sharks, are common. On average, Myrtle Beach reports one to two shark attacks per year, resulting in minor injuries. On August 15, 2022, two people were bitten by sharks on the same day off the coastline of Myrtle Beach.

Still, given the millions of visitors to Myrtle Beach annually, the incidents are relatively rare. Most incidents occur from late spring to early fall, which mirrors the migratory patterns of sharks moving through the warm waters. Fishing attracts sharks closer to shore, especially near fishing piers where fish are being cleaned, or plenty of bait can be found. Sharks are more active during dawn and dusk, popular times for anglers looking to reel in the catch of the day.

Sea Pines Beach

Sea Pines Beach is at the very south tip of Hilton Head Island—a picturesque barrier island off the coast of South Carolina. The beach is part of a private 5,000-acre community with a resort, a marina, a forest preserve, and a PGA Tour golf community. There are plenty of activities for visitors at the Sea Pines Resort, including golf, tennis, water sports, and strolling along the five miles of sandy beaches. There is also no shortage of varied shark species roaming the waters off Hilton Head. During the summer, visitors may see blacktips, fine tooths, bonnetheads (a smaller hammerhead species found in shallow waters), and lemon sharks in the surf zone. In the winter, great white sharks may occasionally be spotted around the island.

The shallow waters around the Sea Pines Resort are an excellent place to see sharks, as the island's estuaries and marshes provide nurseries for various shark species. A few shark attacks have been reported over the years at Sea Pines Beach, but the chances of getting bitten are relatively low. In July 2024, sharks attacked two swimmers at Sea Pines.

Folly Beach

Known as Charleston’s Beach Town, Folly Beach exudes laid-back vibes. Most activities revolve around the water, with surfing, paddle boarding, and kayaking high on the list of outdoor water sports to enjoy. With its proximity to Charleston Harbor and the Atlantic Ocean's open waters, the beach is another prime spot for sharks, especially near the Folly Beach Pier. Hammerhead sharks and other shark species are often attracted to piers thanks to increased fishing activity around these areas. Hammerheads are also attracted to the shoreline by the presence of blacktips—a favored meal.

Visitors to Folly Beach shouldn’t let the presence of sharks keep them out of the salty sea as the chances of being attacked by a shark are low. Practical safety tips for avoiding sharks include avoiding swimming during dawn and dusk and during or after storms, as the weather can churn up bait fish, attracting these curious ocean dwellers. Birds diving and fish jumping are also tell-tale signs of a looming shark, so swimmers should be wary of going in the water if they see this behavior. Instead of swimming, visitors can look for shark teeth on the beach, where beachcombers may find teeth from lemon sharks, sand tiger sharks, bull sharks, and great white sharks.

Isle of Palms

Eighteen miles from Charleston, the relaxing South Carolina barrier Isle of Palms is a much-loved destination for both locals and tourists. It has abundant marine life, including loggerhead sea turtles, dolphins, herons, pelicans, osprey, and sharks. The waters surrounding the picturesque Isle of Palms are home to several species of sharks, including blacktip, bonnethead, and bull sharks.

Blacktip sharks, a typical coastal species, are often spotted inshore near the beach during the summer months of May to September, as shark activity increases due to migration and breeding patterns. While these sharks are frequently mistaken for more dangerous species, they are not highly dangerous to humans as they are timid. In May 2023, a swimmer was bitten by what was thought to be a 4-5 foot juvenile tiger shark on Isle of Palms.

Hunting Island

Near historic Beaufort, Hunting Island is a popular beach and part of South Carolina’s most-visited state park. More than one million tourists visit the park every year, drawn to the nearly 5 miles of soft white sand on the Atlantic Ocean side of the island. On the other side of the island, a salt marsh lagoon contains a unique ecosystem where dolphins, tiger sharks, shrimp, crabs, and certain turtle species are found, with osprey and eagles soaring overhead.

The beach has experienced numerous shark sightings, especially near its estuary areas, thanks to its rich ecosystem, which makes it an attractive feeding area for sharks. As for the shark species on Hunting Island beach, visitors may encounter blacktips, finetooths, bonnetheads, spinner sharks, or lemon sharks, which can generally be seen feeding on small bait fish, such as mullet and menhaden, which are common in the surf zone. There have been several shark attacks off the beach on Hunting Island over the past 10 years, but none recently.

Summary

South Carolina is certainly a top shark hotspot in the US, along with Hawaii, California, North Carolina, and Florida, where New Smyrna Beach, ranked as the most shark-infested area in the world, is called the “Shark Bite Capital of the World.” According to the Florida Museum of Natural History ISAF, the odds of being attacked by a shark are 1 in 11.5 million. There were 36 shark attacks in the US, of which two were fatal—one in California and the other in Hawaii. The Palmetto State had two reported shark bites in 2023, but while shark sightings and encounters occasionally make headlines, understanding their habits and habitats ensures both visitors and these ocean dwellers can safely enjoy even the five most shark-infested beaches in South Carolina.

Folly Beach's McClellan family continues holiday tree sale tradition

Last week, McClellan and his wife Tara traveled to North Carolina to pick up 140 fresh Fraser Fir trees for their traditional holiday sale at the beach town. (WCIV)...FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — While Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation in Western North Carolina, not all Christmas tree growers in that area are experiencing the same level of hardship.While some growers are dealing with extensive damage, others are not.“I reached out to my distributor early on after the storm and they assured m...

Last week, McClellan and his wife Tara traveled to North Carolina to pick up 140 fresh Fraser Fir trees for their traditional holiday sale at the beach town. (WCIV)

...

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCIV) — While Hurricane Helene caused widespread devastation in Western North Carolina, not all Christmas tree growers in that area are experiencing the same level of hardship.

While some growers are dealing with extensive damage, others are not.

“I reached out to my distributor early on after the storm and they assured me that the trees were fine," said Andy McClellan, a Christmas tree seller on Folly Beach. "Unfortunately, most of the water and stuff went down the mountain."

Last week, McClellan and his wife Tara traveled to North Carolina to pick up 140 fresh Fraser Fir trees for their traditional holiday sale at the beach town.

READ MORE | "Are live Christmas trees in Alabama ready for the holidays this year?"

It's a tradition that started 15 years ago.

“Last year we had our 1st second generation- a young guy that came with his family, and last year he came with his wife and brand-new son,” McClellan said.

McClellan would have been disappointed but understanding if his family wouldn't have been able to do this year's Mama Jean's Christmas Trees sale.

But, good fortune made it possible despite some heartbreak.

“They were caught up in the storm and those folks were needing some help,” he said.

READ MORE | "Holiday season begins as SC's Christmas tree arrives at State House."

Not only did the McClellan family head north looking to pick up the trees – they brought something special with them.

“We were able to go up there and share some gifts from the heart that our community and surrounding communities collected for them, to show our love and support for them in their time of need," McClellan said. "And we were able to get Christmas Trees for our community to enjoy the beautiful fresh Fraser Firs that come out of Western North Carolina.”

McClellan hopes any little bit helps to regrow the area.

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“Personally, for me, yes it does because those folks are hurting right now and anything to boost their economy is definitely a plus,” he said.

Folly Beach adopts dune and bird migration protections

Published: Nov. 13, 2024 at 12:45 PM PST|FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of Folly Beach is taking precautions to protect the dunes and birds that contribute to the island’s habitat and integrity.Folly Beach Leaders approved updates to the Dune Management Plan, which protects the dunes that protect the island at the edge of the beach and serve as a critical habitat. Coastal Consultant Nicole Elko wrote part of the plan and calls Folly Beach home.“The dune management plan is really one of many city plans th...

Published: Nov. 13, 2024 at 12:45 PM PST|

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of Folly Beach is taking precautions to protect the dunes and birds that contribute to the island’s habitat and integrity.

Folly Beach Leaders approved updates to the Dune Management Plan, which protects the dunes that protect the island at the edge of the beach and serve as a critical habitat. Coastal Consultant Nicole Elko wrote part of the plan and calls Folly Beach home.

“The dune management plan is really one of many city plans that helps to address climate change and sea level rise, and this one in particular, really helps the city fulfill the requirements of the federal renourishment agreement,” Elko says.

The dune management plan provides checkpoints and projects to make sure the dunes are not eroding. As a part of the plan, the city is finishing installing protective wooden fences that trap and retain sand on the dunes during the windy winter. Come spring of 2025, teams will plant grasses on the dunes to help root them into the environment.

“Some of the goals are to monitor, restore and protect the dunes. And under each of those goals, we have action items, for example, under monitoring, we measure the beach and dune annually. So we’re looking at the vegetation, how much the dune has grown, if it’s gotten taller, if it has eroded. And these types of metrics help us plan for future renourishments,” Elko says.

Elko says aside from being an aesthetic addition, the dunes serve the island in a lot of ways.

“A wide beach is great, but you need the elevation of the dune to kind of act as a levy against storm surge and protect the community. Then the dunes also provide habitat for nesting sea turtles, for shore birds. Then the final element is, sort of the aesthetic,” Elko says.

Concerning the wildlife and birds, Folly Beach City Council also approved promoting ‘Lights Out Nights’ and asking residents and businesses to turn off non-essential lights at night during critical bird migratory periods in the spring and fall.

Jen Tyrrell is an ornithologist who works with the Audubon Society and lives on James Island. She is working with leaders to raise more awareness about light pollution interfering with bird migration.

“Most songbirds migrate at night to avoid daytime predators, and when they migrate at night, they use celestial cues and stars and polarized light to navigate. And so when they’re flying through the night and buildings are lit up and there’s a lot of reflection from the ground, they get disoriented, and they can run into buildings and structures,” Tyrrell says.

Folly Beach will participate in campaigns to encourage conscious light usage during the upcoming migration times between March and May, and August through October.

“60% of birds that hit a structure like that will die, even if they get up and fly away. You think it was just stunned, but most of them will die within a few days. So it’s very important for their population. And about a billion birds a year will die from building collisions and window collisions. So it’s a huge problem,” Tyrrell says.

Tyrrell says she has seen it herself at Folly Beach City Hall and has plans to petition Charleston to participate in the program before the spring migration. The program asks people to take actions similar to sea turtle protections, and while the birds in question are not endangered as the sea turtles are, Tyrrell says they deserve the same protection from light pollution.

“If you’re looking to reduce your outdoor lighting at home, think about how you need your lighting, or what’s the purpose of your lighting. Is it for safety, using motion sensors? Use it only when needed, and then also have it pointed downwards so it’s not reflecting into the sky causing glare,” Tyrrell says.

Folly Beach leaders like Public Works Director, Eric Lutz, say these are year-round considerations the town looks at to protect the integrity of the island for the people and animals who live there year-round and for all visitors.

“It’s important out here, we try to protect all of our habitat, and we have lights out for turtles, but we realize it’s extra important to cover the birds as they’re migrating. And the dunes are starting to build up now, with the sand fencing that went in, all that will help build and restore the dunes and keep them healthy for habitat,” Lutz says.

Copyright 2024 WCSC. All rights reserved.

Folly Beach city council discusses amendments to short term rental ordinance

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Folly Beach city council is set to discuss amendments to its short term rental ordinance Tuesday night.After a short-term rental cap was put in place last year, council members wanted to clarify language within the ordinance. Officials said although there won’t be any significant changes, one that stands out could be the discussion of the consequences by turning in business licenses late.“As it stands now – failure to turn in a timely rental registration result in ramification ...

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCBD) – Folly Beach city council is set to discuss amendments to its short term rental ordinance Tuesday night.

After a short-term rental cap was put in place last year, council members wanted to clarify language within the ordinance. Officials said although there won’t be any significant changes, one that stands out could be the discussion of the consequences by turning in business licenses late.

“As it stands now – failure to turn in a timely rental registration result in ramification of a license,” DJ Rich, council member of Folly Beach, said. “There is a reason it’s come up, that’s a little too harsh. I also believe its a little too harsh, I think a strike is more applicable. If you’re late turning in your business license for any other business that you have, you know you don’t lose your business. You pay a penalty, which is adequate here but we will see how the discussion goes tonight.”

Other items on the agenda included eligibility for inheritance-based Investor Short Term Rental (ISTR) licenses, the allowance of licensed homes to be relocated without losing eligibility for a rental license, and amending information required to apply for rental registration.

Although, some residents said since the cap was put in place, the amount of days they are able to rent in a year are slim.

“Now I’m limited to 72 days and I have no choice but to get an ISTR,” Ellen Stoler, resident of Folly Beach, said. “ISTR, you know, is limited now. I am on the waiting list but I’m like seventieth on the waiting list because it goes by whose lived here the longest.”

The regulations have hurt the business of residents that rent their homes while living in them full-time.

“I don’t like being limited to 72 days, I live here, I’m with the people in my house – I never had a complaint,” Stoler said. “I enjoy it a lot, it’s great for an empty-nester, I’ve met people from all over the world.”

Stoler said people she knows are experiencing the same difficulties of trying to get an ISTR. She explained she may now have to get a long-term rental license, which does not pay off in the same way.

“Well, I’ve been short-term renting for years,” Stoler said. “I didn’t like being limited to 72 and I didn’t like not being able to switch to an ISTR. I think they should’ve had a grandfathered period where people could’ve switched and then if they wanted to change all the rules – then do it. There were a lot of people who made lifelong plans that included switching to an ISTR.”

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Folly Beach weighing options for affordable, workforce housing plan

Updated: Nov. 6, 2024 at 4:45 PM PSTFOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of Folly Beach hopes to curb a growing need for “cost-friendly” livability by expanding access to workforce housing, but they need opinions to push them forward.Leaders are asking the public to weigh in on ideas to bring diverse housing options closer to city limits. The idea was first introduced in July when planning commission board members discussed creating affordable long-term rental spaces.Folly Beach has seen an increase in July lo...

Updated: Nov. 6, 2024 at 4:45 PM PST

FOLLY BEACH, S.C. (WCSC) - The City of Folly Beach hopes to curb a growing need for “cost-friendly” livability by expanding access to workforce housing, but they need opinions to push them forward.

Leaders are asking the public to weigh in on ideas to bring diverse housing options closer to city limits. The idea was first introduced in July when planning commission board members discussed creating affordable long-term rental spaces.

Folly Beach has seen an increase in July long-term rentals after a cap was placed in 2023 on short-term rental options.

“It’s getting to be a bit more expensive to live on Folly Beach, and that’s starting to impact our public safety, our service workers, who are having to move further out and find places they can afford to live in,” Councilmember Chris Bizzell says.

Sarah Piscatelli has worked on Folly Beach for more than a year. She admires the character of the beachfront and its local hospitality.

“I used to live on James Island, made a shorter commute. Since we now own a house in Goose Creek, so a longer commute,” Piscatelli says. “It is so rewarding to work somewhere and commute somewhere that is so beautiful.”

Coworkers and surrounding businesses share a similar experience. The restaurants, cafes and shops lining Center Street say peak tourism season gives them the business and the energy they need, but staffing can be difficult to maintain, despite the potential of higher pay.

Local residents add attainable housing is “no doubt, a need,” but would like to see how it would be done. City officials have confirmed there is not a lot of space in city limits for development.

“I know locals are super passionate about the community we have and are obtaining. I feel like any sort of additional housing, anything built besides whatever is being done already is excessive,” Piscatelli says.

The city aims to have a formal plan by February 2025 that includes details of cost, timeline, location and design. Between that time, leaders expect to hold public hearings and meetings to dispute options.

“We won’t be building high-rises, we can’t build high-rises because we don’t have room. The avenues we want to build through planning commission may look very different than they do in other places,” Zoning Administrator, Jenna Stephens, says. “Planning commission is about to send out a survey we hope business workers will answer, to know how far they live, how far they commute, how much they pay, are they looking for housing on Folly Beach and would they benefit from some sort of help.”

Bizzell says this is the time for “creative solutions,” as it can be difficult to gauge an “affordable” definition for housing. He adds the average single family home could cost anywhere between $3,000 and $4,000 a month.

To submit public comment on this project, you can contact the city of Folly Beach here.

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