No statewide law

South Carolina

Last checked 2026-09-23

South Carolina has no enacted statewide sea-turtle lighting or general outdoor lighting statute. A statewide "Sea Turtle Protection Act" (most recently S.133, 2023-2024) has been introduced repeatedly since at least 2009 but has died in committee each time; turtle-friendly lighting rules exist only at the municipal level on barrier islands.

Municipal codes

  • Sullivan's Island: Town code section 132.23, "Beach Lighting," restricts visible beachfront light during sea-turtle nesting season.