Kershaw County will be educating citizens during the month of September on the County’s “tarp your load” litter ordinance. Kershaw County Code Enforcement Officers will patrol the County’s Landfill and Convenience Centers over the coming weeks to make citizens aware of the ordinance and distribute a free tarp (while supplies last) provided by Palmetto Pride, South Carolina’s anti-litter organization.
The ordinance (102.2024 Section 5 E) states in part, “It shall be unlawful for any person, firm, corporation, institution, or organization to transport any loose litter, solid waste, or other materials by truck or other motor vehicle within the unincorporated limits of the County unless the load is secured by means of a covering which is fastened securely so as to prevent any of the litter, solid waste, or other materials from dropping, spilling or leaking or otherwise escaping from the vehicle. Lack of adequate covering and securing of material while the loaded truck or other motor vehicle is in motion shall constitute a violation of this section.”
Beginning October 1, Officers will begin enforcement of the ordinance. Penalties and fines for first offense are $250.00 and 8 hours of community service. A second offense carries fines not less than $500.00 and 16 hours of litter-gathering labor or other community service and a third conviction will result in a fine of not less than $750.00 and 24 hours of litter-gathering labor or community service.