The Bay County Sheriff’s Office is aware of online chatter regarding Spring Break activities and wants to be clear:
There will be no “takeovers” in Bay County — not on our beaches, not on our roads, and not in our community.
The Bay County Sheriff’s Office is fully staffed, fully prepared, and has ample jail capacity. Anyone arriving with the intent to cause disruption or test the limits should understand enforcement will be swift and decisive.
Visitors planning to enjoy Spring Break responsibly are welcome. Those planning chaos are urged to familiarize themselves with new county ordinances that will be enforced during High Impact Periods (HIP).
🚫 NEW COUNTY ORDINANCES – HIGH IMPACT PERIODS (HIP)
Alcohol Establishments & Minors
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No one under 18 is allowed inside establishments selling alcohol for on-premises consumption between 10:00 PM and 6:00 AM in HIP areas.
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Businesses may not permit minors to remain on site during those hours.
Beach & Public Area Restrictions
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Beaches, access points, parks, parking areas, and rights-of-way may be closed or restricted to prevent dangerous overcrowding.
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Areas may be immediately cordoned off when public safety is at risk.
Nighttime Curfew for Minors
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A temporary curfew for unaccompanied minors may be imposed during HIP.
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Curfew hours: 8:00 PM – 5:00 AM
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Violations may result in a second-degree misdemeanor.
Curfew exceptions include:
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Being accompanied by a parent/guardian or approved adult (21+, max two minors)
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Traveling to or from work
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Attending school, religious, civic, or permitted events
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Medical emergencies
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Being immediately outside the minor’s residence or an adjacent neighbor’s residence with consent
Parental Responsibility
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Parents or guardians may be held accountable for knowingly allowing curfew violations.
Vacation Rentals
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Vacation rentals may not be rented or leased to anyone under 21 years of age.
📢 BOTTOM LINE
Enjoy the beach. Follow the rules. Respect the community.
If your Spring Break plans include disorder, disruption, or defiance, save yourself the trip. Bay County is ready, and enforcement will be firm.
Additional information regarding High Impact Periods and designated special event areas will be released as Spring Break approaches.
— Bay County Sheriff’s Office
