Laguna Beach has some new rules on shade coverings that beach visitors should heed – or they might face a hefty fine.
A new ordinance from the city, going into effect this summer, bans any covering “larger than standard beach umbrellas” at beaches across the city, except for designated areas at Main Beach and Aliso Beach. This effectively bans tents, canopies, and easy-ups beginning May 26, 2026.
Beachgoers with shade coverings that aren’t umbrella-style can be fined up to $500.
If you want to bring a bigger shade covering than an umbrella to Laguna Beaches, you’ll have to submit an official request that has to be approved by the city manager or designee.
The ban comes after safety concerns surrounding lifeguard visibility of the beach and water. The ordinance also notes that any authorized shade covering shall be relocated at the request of the Marine Safety Department staff, Police Department staff, or other authorized City personnel.
According to the ordinance, Main Beach and Aliso Beach allow shade coverings, but they are limited in size to 8x8x6 feet tall and are only allowed in certain zones that do not impede lifeguards’ view of the water. They also must be located more than 20 feet away from emergency access paths, and five feet apart from each other.
Shade coverings are allowed at beach adjacent parks, but can’t exceed 8x8x6 feet. For non-beach-adjacent parks, shade coverings can’t be more than 10x10x10 feet.
What else is banned?
Tables larger than six feet in length by three feet in width are also banned at all city beaches and parks, according to the ordinance, unless approved by the city manager or designee. Beachgoers are also banned from installing or erecting volleyball nets or courts on any beach or park citywide, unless approved by the city manager or designee.