§ 14-235. Convenience business security.

(a)

Every convenience business shall be equipped with the following security devices and standards:

(1)

A security camera system capable of recording and retrieving an image to assist in offender identification and apprehension, and which actually is operational.

(2)

A drop safe or cash management device for restricted access to cash receipts.

(3)

A lighted parking lot.

(4)

Window signage that allows a clear and unobstructed view from outside the building and, whenever possible, in a normal line of sight of the cash register and sales transaction area.

(5)

Height markers at the entrance of the convenience business which display height measures.

(6)

A cash management policy to limit the cash on hand at all times after 11:00 p.m.

(7)

Posted and enforced no loitering policy and signage prohibiting remaining on premises either after hours or during business hours without commercial activity, as such constitutes a public nuisance.

(b)

A convenience business shall not have window tinting that reduces exterior or interior view in a normal line of sight.

(c)

Every convenience business shall be equipped with a silent alarm to a private security agency, unless application for an exemption is made to and granted by the police department. An application for exemption must be in writing and must be accompanied by an administrative fee of $25.00 for each store for which an exemption would apply.

(d)

Additional security as a result of violent crime. If more than one attempted robbery, robbery, or violent crime arising from an attempted robbery or robbery as those crimes are identified and defined by South Carolina Statutes, occurs within any 24-month period, and arises out of the operation of the convenience business, that convenience business shall implement at least one of the following security measures:

(1)

Provide at least two employees on the premises at all times after 11:00 p.m. and before 5:00 a.m.;

(2)

Provide a security guard on the premises at all times after 11:00 p.m. and before 5:00 a.m.;

(3)

Lock the business premises throughout the hours of 11:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., and only transact business through an indirect pass-through trough, trapdoor, or window; or

(4)

Close the business at all times after 11:00 p.m. and before 5:00 a.m.

(e)

Additional security measures can be exempted if two years without incident. For purposes of this section, any convenience business that by law implemented any of the security measures set forth in paragraphs (d)(1)—(4) and has maintained said measures as required without any occurrence or incidence of the crimes identified by subsection (d) for a period of no less than 24 months immediately preceding the filing of a notice of exemption, may file with the police department a notice of exemption from these enhanced security measures. In no event shall this exemption be interpreted to preclude full compliance with the security measures set forth in subsection (d) should any occurrence or incidence of the crimes identified by subsection (d) cause subsection (d) to be statutorily applicable. In no event shall the City of Myrtle Beach incur any liability for the regulation and enforcement of this act.

(Ord. No. 2010-51, 7-13-10)