Surf and Paddleboard Camp Franchises Application

The city is accepting bids for surf and paddleboard camp franchises for the term beginning 1/9/24 and ending 1/1/29. A maximum of four (4) surf camp and two (2) paddleboard camp franchises will be awarded. Franchises will be awarded based on demonstration of the ability to meet all safety and operational requirements as well as proposed bid amounts. Interested providers may apply here.


Franchise Requirements

Location:

Surf and Paddleboard camps may not be located between 3rd Street East and 3rd Street West. Current approved locations are 4th, 5th, 6th, 8th, and 10th Streets East and 3rd Street West. Vendors may propose to use any of these locations or alternate locations (except the Washout). Any application for an alternate location must include an analysis of the site for suitability including parking, access, and beach conditions. Note that approval of a camp location does not permit exclusive use of the beach and beach accesses. Camps may not stop the general public from using the beach.

 

Operating Requirements:

  • Surf and paddleboard camps must not exceed 40 students and can only operate between the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
  • Camps must comply with the following safety standards and certifications:
  • Lessons and camps must have one instructor for every five students.
  • At least one instructor per ten students must be lifeguard, CPR, and first aid certified, with current certifications on file with the city.
  • There must be a first aid kit on site.
  • Each provider must carry liability insurance of at least $1,000,000 that names the City of Folly Beach as an additional insured.
  • Camp providers may not advertise on the beach, but franchise holders may have a tent no larger than ten feet by ten feet that includes the provider's name, logo, and contact information.
  • Approved operators must remain in designated areas and may not offer any additional goods or services without specific approval from City Council.
  • Bidders may submit bids for multiple locations; however each location shall be submitted as a separate bid.
  • Approved operators shall be responsible for clearing trash, debris, and any equipment from assigned areas. Storage of equipment is permitted in unobtrusive containers approved by the city. In the event of a tropical storm or hurricane, all storage boxes, equipment, or any other items used in the transaction of business must be removed 24 hours prior to forecasted landfall within 100 miles of Folly Beach.
  • Once awarded, franchises may not be transferred to a new operator without Council approval.
  • Any violation of the above or violation of terms and conditions of the franchise agreement may result in the revocation of the franchise agreement and vendor's business license.

 

Bid Amounts:

  • Each vendor must propose an annual payment (minimum of $5,000).
  • Vendors must obtain a City of Folly Beach business license annually.
  • In addition to the annual payment, vendors shall pay a fee equal to 4% of the gross revenues reported for business license purposes.