The S. C. Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Law Enforcement Marine Patrol Division (District 4) is responsible for enforcing coastal recreational and commercial boating / fishing regulations.

The S.C. Department of Natural Resources developed a program in 2000 to better help citizens report violations of saltwater recreational and commercial fishing laws, as well as marine environmental laws. Coast Watch is an extension of the highly successful Operation Game Thief program.

The hotline number (1-800-922-5431) is toll-free and available 24 hours a day. The caller will be assigned a code number and is NOT required to reveal their identity. If an apprehension is made based upon the information given, a reward of up to $500 in cash may be offered to the caller.

Anyone with specific questions regarding Law Enforcement may contact:

• DNR Law Enforcement Office in Charleston (843) 953-9307
• DNR Licensing Office in Charleston (843) 953-9301
• DNR Law Enforcement Office in Columbia (803) 955-4000

Related Links

• Rules and Regulations
• Boating Safety and Regulations - (Adobe PDF)
• Boating / Hunter Education Courses

Some of the files listed above have the Adobe Icon by them which indicates they are in the Adobe® Acrobat® (PDF) format. Adobe® Reader® is required to open the files and is available as a free download from the Adobe® Web site.