This California Beach Is Implementing A New Law That Could Get You Fined Up To $1,000

When you head to Del Mar Beach in California this summer, you may want to add an unexpected item to your beach bag: a tape measure. The City of Del Mar has issued an ordinance banning any holes dug deeper than 2 feet, and the rules took effect in late March 2026. And while the tape measure may not necessarily be a realistic item to add to your beach bag, the city does cite deep holes on the beach as a safety hazard. Signs erected along the sand warn beachgoers of a hefty $1,000 fine if they don't comply.

According to the announcement on the City of Del Mar's website, the biggest concern with guests digging deep holes is the trip hazards they create. And while the beaches of Del Mar may not be in one of California's top-tier surf towns, the new rules are part of safety measures to protect the estimated 3 million people who visit the city each year. The large holes, the city said, can also make emergency response difficult, especially for vehicles rushing to someone's aid.

Del Mar, situated about 20 miles north of San Diego International Airport, isn't the only city taking sand safety seriously these days — beaches in and near Los Angeles County have also implemented similar rules. An hour north of Del Mar, Laguna Beach has even gone one step further in the name of safety with its new umbrella rule. The Del Mar ordinance took effect March 25, and the city said that the signs along with "verbal contacts" will remind visitors about the new guidelines. Visitors will also notice other sand-safety rules included in the new postings that go beyond just simply digging a hole.

Fortunately, digging in the sand is not prohibited altogether in Del Mar, California. Kids can still build their dream sandcastles, as long as the holes nearby are at acceptable depths. Parents and guardians are responsible for monitoring the excavation, the ordinance said. It's also required that those who create holes (even shallow ones) on the beach backfill them before they leave. This prevents future visitors from stumbling into a previous guest's construction project.

Another pastime now prohibited on the beach is the act of burying someone (or yourself) in the sand below the sand grade. The city cites the dangers of suffocation as a reason behind the rule. Again, it all comes down to safety, Del Mar says, and the ordinance's language was modeled after those nearby communities with similar rules, according to officials (via the Desert Sun).

California beaches aren't the only ones implementing stricter rules and harsher fines in the name of safety. Across the country, Panama City Beach, Florida, issued a red flag swimming rule that could cost violators $500 for non-compliance. According to the Desert Sun, Del Mar's Deputy Mayor John W. Spelich was thrilled with the city council's unanimous decision to pass the new ordinance. "I just want to say: I'm glad we're doing this," the paper quoted him as saying.