Beach zones classifications are used in the determination of state beach jurisdictional lines.

Standard Zones

Within a standard erosion zone (a segment of shoreline which is subject to essentially the same set of coastal processes, has a fairly constant range of profiles and sediment characteristics and is not directly influenced by tidal inlets or associated inlet shoals) the baseline is established at the location of the crest of the primary oceanfront sand dune in that zone. In a standard erosion zone in which the shoreline has been altered naturally or artificially by the construction of erosion control devices, groins, or other man-made alterations, the baselines must be established by DHEC using the best scientific and historical data, as where the crest of the primary ocean front sand dune for that zone would be located if the shoreline had not been altered.

Unstabilized Inlet Zones

Within an unstabilized inlet zone (inlets that have not been stabilized by jetties, terminal groins, or other structures) the baseline must be determined by DHEC as the most landward point of erosion at anytime during the past forty years, unless the best available scientific and historical data of the inlet and adjacent beaches indicate that the shoreline is unlikely to return to its former position. In collecting and utilizing the best scientific and historical data available for the implementation of the retreat policy, DHEC as part of the State Comprehensive Beach Management, among other factors, must consider: historical inlet migration, inlet stability, channel and ebb tidal delta changes, the effects of sediment bypassing on shorelines adjacent to the inlets, and the effects of nearby beach restoration project on inlet sediment budgets.

Stabilized Inlet Zones

Within a stabilized inlet zone (inlets which are stabilized by jetties, terminal groins, or other

Structures) the baseline location must be determined in the same manner as provided for in a standard erosion zone. However the actual location of the crest of the primary oceanfront sand dune of that erosion zone is the baseline of that zone, not the location if the inlet had remained unstabilized.