This California Beach City's New 'Umbrellas Only' Rule Could Land You A $500 Fine

If you find yourself looking for shade along California's coast this summer, make sure you're protected under the right kind of covering. Laguna Beach, specifically, has deemed that beach umbrellas are the only acceptable shade accommodations on parts of its beaches. Failure to follow the new law, which took effect at the end of May 2026, could result in fines up to $500.

According to the new ordinance issued by the city of Laguna Beach, it's illegal to erect anything but single-pole umbrellas on certain parts of the beach. A tent, canopy, or awning will attract the attention of law enforcement, who will ask you to remove it. If the shade structure isn't removed after a warning, the fine could be issued soon after.

The new law is a way to ensure lifeguards have better views of the ocean, according to a statement Laguna Beach Mayor Mark Orgill gave to CBS News. He told the network that "when people put up these rows of these tent structures, the lifeguards cannot see down to the waterline and it creates a safety issue." Shaw's Cove, considered one of the best hidden beaches in California for a coastal escape, is one spot where you'll likely encounter the new rule. Beachgoers who prefer larger canopies and coverings can still use those structures, but only in designated areas.

Laguna Beach has created what it calls "canopy zones" at its Main Beach and Aliso Beach. In these areas, canopies, tents, and other coverings can be erected on the beaches, as long as they do not extend more than 8 feet in either direction or stand more than 6 feet high, according to a post on the city's official Instagram. They must also be situated either "in line with or behind lifeguard towers."

There are other considerations as well when it comes to shade structures that aren't umbrellas. Each structure must be at least 5 feet from other shade coverings and at least 20 feet from public and emergency access paths. If any authorized city personnel, police officer, or lifeguard asks for the covering to be relocated, its owner must comply.

If in doubt, beachgoers could opt for the appropriate umbrellas instead and consider saving the tent for California's top five beaches for winter camping adventures. While the rules may seem strict to some, it's important to remember the reason behind them: safety for visitors and clear surveillance for lifeguards on duty.

Rules concerning umbrellas and shade coverings may seem excessive to some tourists. However, Laguna Beach has a long list of rules it asks residents and visitors to follow when enjoying its beaches. Some are simple to follow, such as the no-alcohol rule on its beaches, regardless of age. The city also has a very clear ban on smoking of any kind on its beaches and in public spaces.

Other rules regarding beach behavior are a bit more nuanced. For example, dogs are allowed on most of the beaches within Laguna Beach's jurisdiction. However, the times in which dogs are allowed vary by the time of year. In the summer, leashed dogs are allowed only before 9 a.m. and after 6 p.m. The rest of the year, dogs are allowed on the beach at any time of the day.

While Laguna Beach isn't among the top-tier surf towns in California, there are surfers there, and they must also follow certain rules. Surfing is only allowed on four beaches near Laguna Beach: Agate, Brooks, Rockpile, and Thalia Street beaches. And if you're planning a bonfire, forget it: Fires are also prohibited on all of Laguna Beach's waterfronts. Rules are made for safety, and if you are unsure as to what is and isn't allowed in Laguna Beach, consider visiting the city's website for a full list of beach rules and regulations.