Holmes Beach Passes New Regulation Addressing Beach Holes

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — Beach sweepers in Manatee County report an alarming increase in the number and size of holes that need to be filled, with some reaching depths that pose significant safety risks.

In addition to the county’s regulations on beach digging, Holmes Beach has also implemented its own ordinance that bans metal shovels and restricts hole depth to one foot, a move applauded by local beach rake operator Mark Taylor.

“We do the best we can to keep it clean and safe,” Taylor stated.

As a beach rake operator for Manatee County, he works daily to fill the numerous holes that have appeared on the beaches. Recently, he has had to fill hundreds of holes each day.

“It’s getting a little worse every year,” he noted. “More people are using the beach now than ever before. There really isn’t a slow season any longer. The holes can range in size from a small wash tub to the size of my tractor,” he said, indicating that his tractor is quite large.

Here are some images of the holes Taylor encountered last weekend:

Taylor strongly believes that the new ordinance will be beneficial.

“They’re dangerous,” he remarked, recalling a troubling incident from a few years ago when he discovered a sign in a hole that read, “My wife is in Blake Hospital with serious injuries because of this hole.”

Holmes Beach officials emphasize that the issue is not solely about human safety; these holes also present hazards for local wildlife, particularly sea turtles. Taylor expresses optimism about the ordinance, stating, “It’s a step in the right direction, I really do. I’ve been pushing for it for a long time.”

He believes this new regulation will help ensure the safety of Manatee County’s beaches, its wildlife, and all who visit.