No More 'Beach Spreading' In Belmar During The Summer

BELMAR, NJ – Don't be a beach hog.

That's the message the Borough Council has for people who bring large tents and canopies to set up on the beach.

Council members adopted an ordinance by a split vote of 3 to 2 Tuesday night that bans the practice of "beach spreading" - bringing large tents and canopies on the beaches - during the summer season, according to an report on app.com.

Mayor Matthew Doherty voted for the ban, which will be in effect from Memorial Day through Labor Day.

“I’m not in favor of more government regulation but it got to the point where people weren’t using common sense and decency,” he said.

Small tents or canopies to shade babies and toddlers no higher than 36 inches will still be allowed, along with umbrellas with one central shaft that supports the canopy in an upright or adjustable tilted position up to 90 degrees, the report states.

Township officials have received complaints from the public works department, police, badge checkers, lifeguards and visitors about the size of the tents and canopies.

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Photo: Patricia A. Miller