Panama City Beach Local Laws
Seat belts must be worn at all times in a moving vehicle Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is illegal. Vehicle Headlights must be on if you are operating your windshield wipers due to rain or poor road conditions.
All children under the age of six years old must be restrained at all times in a moving vehicle by means appropriate for the child and seating location according to the National Highway Traffic Administration. Right turns can be made on a red light throughout the state, except where a sign says "No Right on Red." Remember, you must signal before turning and give way to traffic already in the intersection.
Dolphin Encounters:
Panama City Beach is one of the few places on earth were you can find and interact with wild dolphins on a continuous basis. Mostly bottlenose dolphins (yep, just like Flipper!), these sea mammals captivate everyone who comes into contact with them.
Unfortunately, this has led to the dolphins being harrassed in the past, which led to laws designed to protect the dolphins. While there is much debate over these laws, and whether they go to far in restricting access to the dolphins, the essential part to remember is this-
"Harassing or attempting to harass wild dolphins by feeding or attempting to feed the animals" is illegal.
Alcohol Consumption:
- It is unlawful for any person under the age of 21 to buy, possess or consume alcoholic beverages.
- If person is 21, this person must have his/her I.D. in their possession.
- Alcohol can be consumed in four places on Panama City Beach:
- In a Bar or Lounge
-In a Motel Room
-On the White Sand Portion of the Beach
-At the Motel, by the Pool area - No alcohol is permitted inside cars, walking down the sides of the road, in parking lots, or along Front Beach Road. Motels use this right of way area as a parking area. Refrain from consumption in these areas.
Littering:
- Littering is illegal. All glass containers are prohibited on the beach.
Sea Oats:
- It is illegal to cut, break or otherwise destroy sea oat plants.
Driving on the Beach:
- Vehicles are strictly prohibited along Panama City Beach.
