ISLE OF PALMS, S.C. --- Beachgoers who build sand castles on the Isle of Palms would have to knock them down before they leave under a proposal being considered by the City Council.

The proposal is part of a broader ordinance requiring people on the beach to pick up tents, coolers and surfboards in addition to filling in any holes dug in the sand.

Violators could get a ticket ranging from $128 to $500.

City Councilman Ryan Buckhannon told The (Charleston) Post and Courier that the goal of the proposal is to keep the beach safe by keeping tourists from leaving items and large holes behind.

A police officer recently fell into a hole and twisted an ankle, officials said.

But enforcement of the sand castle rule might be impossible. Police said they would have to see the castle from the moment someone starts to build it, then catch the person as he left the beach.

Vacationers aren't too keen on the idea either.

"I'd laugh at them," said Todd Brower, who sculpted a mound of sand with a spade.

Steve Lussier's children were rolling in a hole as he enjoyed the sand.

"Someone has too much time on their hands," he said. "Police have got better things to do than sand castle enforcement."