Cape beaches are putting in new restrictions after reports of fights, “massive drinking parties,” and “out-of-control crowds” in recent years.

Dennis town officials announced the measures at Mayflower Beach, Chapin Memorial Beach and Bayview Beach for the Fourth of July following chaos and arrests during past summers.

Over the last three years, police have reported a dramatic spike in unsafe and dangerous conduct, fighting, assaults, vandalism, binge drinking, drug use, loud music, and other concerning behavior. Partying beachgoers at Mayflower trashed the beach last Fourth of July, as police made a number of arrests and seized large amounts of alcohol.

“Dennis is home to some of the best beaches on Cape Cod, including Mayflower Beach,” said Police Chief John Brady.

“Our goal with these measures is to make sure that beachgoers can enjoy Dennis beaches this July 4th holiday safely without worrying about out-of-control crowds, violence, and other dangerous behavior,” the police chief added.

Since 2019, there has been a 100% increase in beach-related calls for emergency services at the three beaches.

Department data shows that Dennis Police responded to more than 1,200 calls for service at town beaches over the past three July 4th holidays, including 459 calls last year.

As a result, the town is implementing the following restrictions on the Fourth of July:

No Daily Parking Passes will be sold or accepted on July 4 at Mayflower Beach, Chapin Beach, or Bayview Beach. Only those who have a residential, seasonal, or weekly parking sticker will be allowed entrance to the beach parking lots.
A parking ban will be in full effect in the neighborhoods and businesses adjacent to the beaches, and vehicles found in violation will be subject to being ticketed and/or towed.
There will be zero tolerance for alcohol consumption, drug use, overly loud music and unsafe behavior at the beaches on July 4. Officers will be out in full numbers, and Dennis Police will be bringing in additional resources to help in this effort.

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“Local and seasonal Dennis residents and visitors should be able to go to their local beach without encountering massive drinking parties organized by visitors who come to the beach for the day and leave utter chaos in their wake,” said Dennis Select Board Chair Christopher Lambton.

“We believe these actions will help to make the beaches safer for everyone and help ensure that we all have a happy Fourth of July,” Lambton added.

Anyone found to be drinking alcohol on a Dennis beach will be issued a written citation, receive a fine of $50 and have their alcohol confiscated, officials said. Those who do not comply after receiving a citation may be subject to arrest.