In the wake of what officials termed a “lawless” spring break in 2022, Panama City Beach adopted a series of so-called “spring break laws.”

Now they’ll get to see if they work.

“Our goal is to provide a safe and enjoyable environment for our residents and visitors,” said Panama City Beach police chief J.R. Talamantez in a statement.

“You can have fun here without being involved in illegal activities. Be responsible and act within the boundaries of the law. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation and understanding.”

Talamantez and other PCB officials are determined to avoid a repeat of last year’s spring break, when more than 160 people were arrested and some 75 weapons were confiscated. In one reported incident, an Alabama man was shot in the foot.

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While half of those arrested during spring break 2022 were Alabama residents, Panama City Beach Mayor Mark Sheldon suggested much of the lawbreaking came from people other than visiting college students.

“These are criminals who came to our town to be lawless and create havoc,” Sheldon said at the time, adding that “we saw a lot of folks from Montgomery and Birmingham who came down to just create trouble.”

Among those arrested in 2022 were 15 people involved with a riot at a PCB Walmart officials said was instigated by social media influencers.

Among the “spring break” laws now in effect include a prohibition on the sale of alcohol from 2 a.m. to 7 a.m. The nightly cutoff is normally 4 a.m. In addition, the consumption of alcohol on the sand beach is prohibited at any time for the duration of March.

Other City ordinances which will be strictly enforced, according to the City, include:

• Loitering in parking lots or on the shoulder of the roadway is strictly prohibited.
• The consumption of alcohol in parking lots and in vehicles is not allowed.
• Riding on the exterior of vehicles, including sitting on the edge of window sills and standing up through the sun roof, is strictly prohibited.
• Loud music which disturbs the peace is prohibited. Music heard more than 25 feet away is illegal.
• Climbing, jumping from, or throwing things from balconies is not allowed.
• No metal shovels are allowed on the sandy beach, and digging holes deeper than two feet is prohibited. Any holes dug should be properly filled in for the safety of all.

Talamantez said Panama City Beach police are patrolling all beach areas, assisted by PCB Code Enforcement and Beach Safety personnel. Those arrested for violating any of the above City ordinances will serve a minimum of one night in jail, with the potential to serve up to 60 days and pay a fine of up to $500.