City of Charleston moves forward with ban on driving through floodwaters

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD)- A plan intended to deter people from traveling through flooded roadways is moving forward in the City of Charleston.

The city council unanimously approved an ordinance Tuesday that makes it unlawful to drive or boat through flooded areas faster than 5 mph or in a manner that causes waves, wakes, or damage.

The rule would apply to motor vehicles, boats, and watercraft on any street, road, highway, bridge, or alley that is flooded or inundated with more than six inches of water.

It would not apply to emergency vehicles that are engaged in emergency operations.

“What we’ve brought forward is an ordinance to basically tell people if a road is impassible, if a road is flooded, don’t drive down it because not only are you endangering yourself, you’re creating problems for people who live in that area, who work in that area,” Councilman Mike Seekings told News 2 in July. “Every time you drive down a flooded street, you create a new mini storm. You create a wake, a wave. Those are unacceptable things during times of storms.”

Violators could face up to a $100 fine, up to 30 days in jail, or both.

The language was added to the city’s existing ordinance that makes it unlawful to drive through or around barricades placed to block access from flooded areas.

According to the Charleston Police Department (CPD), officers issued 10 citations for people disregarding barricades during Tropical Storm Debby last month, which brought up to 16 inches of rainfall and closed dozens of city streets.

It remains to be seen how the new ordinance will be enforced as it gives broad discretion to officers who may encounter a violation.

A CPD spokesperson said officers will assess each situation based on factors such as the depth of floodwaters, potential hazards, and risk to public safety when determining penalties.

“Our focus will be on areas where floodwaters pose the greatest risk to motorists, boaters, and first responders,” Sgt. Chris Stinson said. “The intent of this enforcement is not to burden residents but to prevent dangerous behaviors that could lead to injuries, property damage, or the need for emergency rescues.”

“Officers will exercise discretion, considering the specific circumstances, but the priority will always be public safety.”

The ordinance is set to go into effect immediately.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WCBD News 2.