This year, city officials passed an ordinance where the police chief can shut down any business without a court order if there are public safety issues. Visitors said the only alerts about the rule have come from signs on the roads leading into Panama City Beach and at a few local restaurants. Loud music which disturbs the peace is prohibited. Sean Brady was in Panama City Beach for a family vacation on Tuesday. Panama City Beach, an epicenter for Spring Break unruliness up until emergency restrictions were authorized in 2015, will continue with its alcohol ban on its beaches during the month of. Their curvaceous and spacious pool is the perfect place to cool off midday, and busy spring breakers will appreciate their fitness gym and mini market, which are open 24/7. For 55 years, Anderson's has been serving up mouthwateringly succulent seafood in their esteemed waterfront location. Get your drink on at Tootsies Orchid Lounge. Between the swaying palm trees, the intoxicating rum drinks, and the tropical Gulf of Mexico views, there truly is no better place to spring break in 2023 than Panama City Beach. Your email address will not be published. You can have fun here without being involved in illegal activities. Going by the stage name Diesel, he is scheduled to perform live during Spring Break in Panama City Beach on March 16 at Harpoon Harry's. At 7'1 and 325 pounds, Shaq's larger-than-life personality and powerful That particular rule is posted. We have to be tough, said Brudnicki. Sales of alcohol will also end at 2 a.m. during the month, according to PCB Police. JuddManuel, owner of Mosey's in downtown Panama City, said his pizza joint doesnt cater to spring breakers and this would affect the late-night locals. From their own staff they sold 700 pre-tickets at $150 a ticket, they sold tickets at the door for $200 a ticket, and they sold VIP for $1,000.. No metal shovels are allowed on the sandy beach, and digging holes deeper than two feet is prohibited. Nevin Zimmerman, city attorney for Panama City, said the proposed ordinance would adjust the current 4 a.m. cutoff for on-premise alcohol sales to 2 a.m. during March and April, while staying at 4 a.m. the rest of the year. Panama City Beach unveils list of major events happening in 2022 In a social media post, the city listed the ordinances: No possession or consumption of alcohol on the sandy beaches No. 4 min read. Even better, April boasts some of the areas lowest rainfall. One of them quote, prohibits the possession or consumption of alcohol on the sandy gulf beach.. So just to curve behavior and try to avoid a serious situation, weve closed that beach from 10 p.m. to 5 a.m., Talamantez said. While half of those arrested during spring break 2022 were Alabama residents, Panama City Beach Mayor Mark Sheldon suggested much of the lawbreaking came from people other than visiting college students. That particular rule is posted on large flashing traffic signs along Highway 98 and at least some of the beach accesses. The event, which leaders say was dubbed by organizers as "Panamaniac," resulted in . The nightly cutoff is normally 4 a.m. for 20 years. Sample their tender Texas-style brisket, spare ribs, or delectable pulled pork sandwich served with pickles and slaw. Panama City officials shared that police will be patrolling all beach areas. Try ordering the opulent Big Kahuna Platter, an ocean-inspired extravaganza containing fried Grouper, shrimp, scallops, and steamed Snow Crab, all served with Hushpuppies and cole slaw. Smith said this past weekend could have been much worse, luckily resulting in no deaths. Welcome to the biggest party of your spring break career, aka Beach Bash Music Fest. At a press conference on Monday, law. Panama City and Panama City Beach are separate municipalities. Panama City Beach may be known as the 'Seafood Capital of the South,' but that doesn't mean their Southern-inspired BBQ doesn't slay. Join us at Harpoon Harrys Day Club This Spring Break. 30, 2022, 3:18 p.m. | Published: Mar. $150, $200, $1,000 for a ticket? Not their problem, because theyre making a bunch of money. Among the spring break laws now in effect include a prohibition on the sale of alcohol from 2 a.m. to 7 a.m. Chief Mark Smith of the Panama City Police Department, Chief J.R. Talamantez of the Panama City Beach Police Department, and Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford walk the scene near a shooting in Panama . Several residents appeared at a special meeting of Panama Citys city commission to say they thought it was overly broad, would hurt local businesses or was otherwise misguided. I did know about it, one resident said. This timeless tradition of partying and beach bumming has brought spring breakers to the crown jewel of the panhandle for decades. Local officials said the city was targeted by a group of . Talamantez said their main priority is to ensure the safety of residents, businesses and visitors while enforcing the laws within the community. PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - We're just 11 days into March, and already the Panama City Beach Police have had to crack down on spring breakers . Our goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our residents and visitors, said Panama City Beach police chief J.R. Talamantez in a statement. We were able to do that without arresting anyone from the crowd, without taking any type of use of force against anyone in the crowd, and without the use of any type of chemical agent on the crowd., Panama City Police Chief Mark Smith showed this photo to county commissioners during discussion of a proposed ordinance limiting late-night alcohol sales. Florida law enforcement officials say they arrested 78 people from Alabama in Panama City Beach, Fla., over the weekend and confiscated 75 guns as spring break revelry devolved into chaos. As long as they behave, theyre welcome, said Panama City Mayor, Greg Brudnicki. Drone Aerial Beach View of Panama City Beach, Florida, USA during Spring Break. The sounds of gunshots sent crowds of spring breakers running . With 27 miles of sugar white beaches, this destination gem boasts some of the very best in nightlife, events, and hotel accommodations that will fit within any budget. If you come here with the intent to cause harm to anyone in this community, you will leave with an arrest on your record, Mayor Sheldon said. We, as the Panama City police department, were left with the dispersal of this crowd, said Smith. 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For seven weeks a year Panama City Beach turns into the worlds largest strip with it's own free shuttle service from beachside hotels to all of the major bars and nightclubs like Club La Vela, Hammerhead Fred's, Sharkys, Calypsos Caribbean Bar & Grill and Hooters. Various officials have said that part of the problem was out-of-town promoters using social media to build crowds for Panamaniac or takeover events. Youre inviting that problem here, and it came, and thank God nobody got killed.. March in Panama City Beach is typically filled with sunshine and spring breakers. The sudden change was in response to Panama City Beach's chaotic Spring Break weekend of March 25-27, which resulted in multiple fights, one shooting, more than 160 arrests and the seizure of 75 . Sample over 50 beers on tap and chow down on seafood specialties with a Cajun kick as you wait for the evening's festivities to begin. We just want to make sure nobody gets hurt from some buffoons that come from out of town that dont even know how to hold a gun, Brudnicki said. This spring, Le Creuset has introduced an exciting new shade thats already selling fast: shallot, a soft lavender with pink and slight gray undertones. I don't want people inviting people here that they know are going to be a problem, not their problem because they're making a bunch of money, Brudnicki said. The change is something that we had to discuss because as the board realizes, I have little to no teeth as the police chief or as a law enforcement agency to clearly be able to address beyond public safety, Smith said. If you purchase a product or register for an account through one of the links on our site, we may receive compensation. photo credit: Beach Bash Music Fest via Facebook. If youre thinking of altering your workout routine, youre probably looking for new exercises and equipment to help you reach your fitness goals. Whether your top priority is proximity to the party, waterfront views, or walking distance to the beach, we have got you covered. So take a break from the crustaceans and fill up on slow, smoked goodness when you stop by, Sand in your toes, some delicious rum drinks, and N'awlins style Po'boys make, Lap up every second of Florida sunshine when you choose to eat, drink, and be merry at, Welcome to the biggest party of your spring break career, aka, Surf that party wave when you get down and dirty with all the discounts offered on the, Incredible discounts on concerts and special live events including the Neon Glow Party. That needs to be tweaked.. The Panama City Council has passed the rules for Spring Break 2022. Loitering in parking lots or on the shoulder of the roadway is strictly prohibited. 2023 Advance Local Media LLC. In the wake of what officials termed a "lawless" spring break in 2022, Panama City Beach adopted a series of so-called "spring break laws." Now they'll get to see if they work. City officialsproposed a change to Ordinance 3059, which would annually prohibit the sale of alcohol within city limits between 2 and 7 a.m. from March 1 to April 30. "What . The fire marshal had them exit the club so that he could count people back in. But there are some newer additions, such as a portion of the sandy beaches will be closed at night. There are some things that they're looking at to add to ours that will help establish the partnership between those late-night establishments that want to stay open between 2 (a.m.) and 4 (a.m.) with the police department.. Shaquille O'Neal is one of the most dominant basketball players in NBA history and is now also a larger-than-life entertainer! Smith also said a gas station next to the club was overrun by roughly 100 people who couldnt get into the club. Officials want all visitors to enjoy the beaches and have a safe memorable trip but with that comes following the rules. Panama City Beach is a popular destination for students to travel for their Spring Break, but according to police chief J.R Talamantez the behavior of spring breakers has changed over the years and that will not be tolerated. A list of ordinances was put into place by the city back in 2016. As of 12:30 p.m. Tuesday, officers have already given out two citations for drinking on the beach. Panama City leaders would be looking at their neighbors proposed rule, he said. Related traffic issues included general congestion and people parking on private property, Smith said, but it got worse as traffic on Highway 98 came to a stop with people trying to dance and twerk in the roadway. About Press Copyright Contact us Creators Advertise Developers Terms Privacy Policy & Safety How YouTube works Test new features Press Copyright Contact us Creators . For example, no alcohol at the beaches, commercial parking lots or inside vehicles. Resident Tho Bishop said while he thanked law enforcement for their work,local government needs to be held more accountable for itsfailure to provide safety for residents and visitors. Prime yourself for plenty of pirate adventure, gorgeous sunsets, and refreshing poolside dips when you stay at the Days Inn. The Runaway Island Beachfront Restaurant and Grill features two levels of live indoor dining space. Whether you choose to get down and dirty in a foam pit, stuff yourself silly with seafood at Schooners. Looking for something special to get your mom for Mothers Day? Panama City Beach's 'Alabama invasion': Alcohol rules targeted to prevent another 'spring break takeover' Updated: Mar. Denim cut-offs, six packs of Coors Light, and foam parties oh my! Their police forces and the Bay County Sheriffs Office worked together over the weekend, along with other agencies, to stem an influx of visitors that Panama City Beach Mayor Mark Sheldon has described as criminals who came to our town to be lawless and create havoc.. Depending on your budget and the size of your spring break crew, choose to stay anywhere from a 1 to 3 bedroom bunk room. Yes, yes, and yes! Fortunately, sun-starved youths will be in luck when they head to Panama City FL for their springtime celebration. I didnt hear about the drinking law and I dont drink alcohol in the first place, Visitor Mark Ohmanm said. Wash it all down with a specialty drink, such as their potent Rum Runner, and don't forget to keep the commemorative souvenir glass it's served in. Borrowing from the beach, it would prohibit the congregation and consumption of alcohol in parking lots and commercial establishments. According to the city, these rules have been in place since 2016 in hopes to decrease criminal activity in the area. You get a lot of people out there fielded with alcohol, fueled with energy drinks in one big location. Published: Feb. 9, 2022 at 4:51 PM PST PANAMA CITY BEACH, Fla. (WJHG/WECP) - Spring break is fast approaching and that means so are the spring break ordinances. The best time to visit Panama City Beach is from May through October. Savor that ocean breeze as you sip your mai tai poolside before heading out to Harpoon Harry's on foot. We dont advertise or cater to spring breakers, he said, but Moseys does serve people who want a place to unwind after late shifts -- including service industry workers and police officers. During the month of March, law enforcement officials are reminding beachgoers about rules and regulations. Looking for something special to get your mom for Mothers Day? Spencer Gremillon said he and his family are not here to party, but they are glad they learned about the rule before they could get in trouble for having alcohol on the sand. Ring in your Spring Break with exceptional flair and finesse when you purchase Panama City Beach's most talked-about VIP Card. Copyright 2022 WJHG. Small signs are posted up near beach entrances. This Friday a new ordinance will go into place until April 10th. Theyd have to meet requirements related to parking, additional security staff and criminal background checks for owners and managers, among other points. So grab yourself a Harry-cane or vibrant Bahama-Mama and prime yourself for some first-rate raging this March. Easy beach access, dazzling Gulf of Mexico views, and walking distance to Harpoon Harrys? But there are also digital signs on Front Beach Road and State Road 79 for those coming to the beach from the airport. Acraze to Perform Live Show in Panama City Beach! So Im kind of okay with it, Hickey said. Let your toes touch the golden Gulf coast sand as you debate what to dig into next. Brand new to the Panama City Beach landscape is Runaway Island. Cookie Settings/Do Not Sell My Personal Information. In March of 2021, Panama City Beach police said they made more than 360 arrests, including 16 juveniles. I don't want my officers to have to run toward gunfire, running toward gunfire like they're in a war.. Ord. Having booze on the beach is allowed 11 months of the year with the exception of March. Panama City Police Chief Mark Smith told city commissioners that event advertisements with terminology such as "takeover" or "invasion" were a source of concern.Panama City. News 13 this Morning: Spring Break laws go into effect March 1. - light up the night like never before when you immerse yourself in a world of neon paint, amazing special effects, and exhilarating electronic beats. And when we're looking at what's going on,it forces us to become more reactive, where we need to be proactive.. The beach imbibing, blacklight parties, and coconut oil-scented fun will last till the 2nd week of April. In a social media post, the city listed the ordinances: The city also reminds visitors that the Gulf of Mexico is closed to the public when double red flags are flying, not just in March, but year-round. No booze on the beach for the month of March in PCB, Three injured, one dead in Franklin County boating accident, Police: Man shipped $3 million worth of fentanyl to restaurant, Troopers make interesting find while cleaning highway. PANAMA CITY City commissionersheld an emergency meeting Wednesday to propose a change in their alcohol sales policy in response to last weekend's Spring Break chaos in Panama City Beach. PANAMA CITY BEACH Local law enforcement officials say while they knew weeks in advance that a potentially dangerous event was planned for this past weekend in Panama City Beach, they cannot control who visits the area. Celebrity DJ Pauly D is Coming to Panama City Beach! Riding on the exterior of vehicles, including sitting on the edge of window sills and standing up through the sun roof, is strictly prohibited. If you break the rule, you could land yourself in jail with an up to $500 fine. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement (updated 4/4/2023), Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (updated 1/26/2023). Prohibit the sale of alcohol within city limits between 2 and 7 a.m. from March 1 to April 30 annually. The other major tip is Panama City Beach police officers out on patrol. #springbreak2023 Pulsating beats, the biggest names in music, and throngs of sweaty and sunkissed college coeds come together to create a festival experience that Rolling Stone deemed the 'biggest daytime beach party in the USA.'. There are three parts of the proposed ordinance: Panama City Police Chief Mark Smith summarized what his department experienced during the weekend. Panama City being a popular spot for spring breakers, officials are prepared for the crowd of students coming to the beaches with new ordinances designed to keep the peace. Copyright 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. All rights reserved. If youre making enough money to do that, to keep it open, then keep it open. Get the Android Weather app from Google Play, 7 bodies found during search for missing Oklahoma, Tornadoes in Virginia and Florida, flooding in other, Met Gala: Tennis star, supermodel reveal pregnancies, Oklahoma governor signs gender-affirming care ban, Calhoun County residents to vote on changing liquor, Arnold mercy rules Godby in district quarter-final, Rutherford building foundation under new coach, Arnold announced new boys basketball coach, Scholar Athlete of the Week Sister Arnold, NWF clinches conference, eliminates Gulf Coast, Temples family legacy grows within Marianna softball, Panama City Beach unveils list of major events happening in 2022, Le Creuset just launched a dreamy new color for spring, Our fitness expert weighs in on this years top spring, New bride dead after alleged DUI driver hits golf, DeSantis board sues Disney in latest tug-of-war in, VIDEO: Black bear surprises principal at school dumpster, Double red flags keeping swimmers out of open waters, Local attorney receives professionalism award, Bay District Schools preparing for state tests, Opera singer struck by lightning is recovering, Appreciating the tourism industry in Bay County, UPDATE: Missing mariners found safe by U.S. Coast, BestReviews.com - Top gifts to make everyone happy this spring, Surprise your mom with one of these Mothers Day, Mothers Day inspo: This foot massager has 20,000, Drew Barrymores Walmart collection is perfect for, Best Mothers Day gifts for the budding plant mom, Expert: Lori Vallows hair found on tape stuck to, Expert Q&A: Where Bryan Kohberger, Lori Vallow cases, Tuesday Morning going out of business, set to close, Some US states could see northern lights again Sunday:, US tracking balloon spotted off coast of Hawaii, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information, No possession or consumption of alcohol on the sandy beaches, No possession or consumption of alcohol in commercial parking lots, No parking in closed business parking lots, unless parking lot is actively being managed, Overnight scooter rental is not permitted, It is illegal to climb, jump from or throw things from balconies, No metal shovels are allowed on beach, and no holes may be dug deeper than two feet. The new rules and enforcement are an attempt to crack down on what officials called a 'lawless' spring break in 2022, where some 160 people were arrested, including nearly 80 from Alabama.. The image shows a gas station flooded by an overflow of patrons from a nearby club.Panama City. photo credit: Casa Loma Panama City Beach, Florida via Facebook. For more information on a recent press conference, click here. Following a weekend of disorder in the Panama City Beach area, officials held a special meeting Wednesday to open discussion of an ordinance to clamp down on late-night alcohol sales during spring break. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Create an account to get access to exclusive pricing and rewards. We had this situation this weekend and its hard for me to understand or believe that the people that set up this concert at this particular venue, didnt know exactly what was going on. Sand in your toes, some delicious rum drinks, and N'awlins style Po'boys make Pineapple Willy's a premier Panama City Beach bar destination. Manuel added the ordinance would require him to voluntarily give Bay County law enforcement access to live security cameras on the exterior of my building. Their property is a mere 5 minutes from Pier Park and just steps away from the beckoning beach. Check out these great suggestions. The city council passed several ordinances that go into effect every year in March. Metal shovels are not permitted . In a social media post, the city listed the ordinances: No possession or consumption of alcohol on the sandy beaches No possession or consumption of alcohol in commercial parking lots All alcohol sales to end at 2 a.m. No open house parties are allowed Smith showed a photo of guns, drugs and money confiscated outside one of the nightclubs that night. Tell us, have you ever had spring break at Panama City Beach? The citys current ordinance, which ends the sale of alcohol at 4 a.m., would remain in place during the rest of the year.