Frequently Asked Questions
Dewey Beach Bonfires:
What You Need to Know
Answers to our Frequently Asked Questions can be found below
Why do you require a signed liability waiver? ✍🏼
We require a signed liability waiver to ensure that all participants understand and acknowledge the inherent risks involved in attending a beach bonfire, such as fire hazards, changing weather conditions, and interactions with the public. This waiver also confirms compliance with local laws and safety regulations, including restrictions on alcohol consumption and noise levels. By signing, participants accept personal responsibility for their safety and agree to follow all guidelines, allowing us to provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Is there a cap on attendance for Bonfires?
Yes! If your Bonfire will exceed 24 people in attendance, the Town of Dewey Beach requires an Events Permit in addition to your Bonfire Permit. This will add $50 onto your Bonfire cost!
How long is my bonfire?
We can start your bonfire as early as 5:30pm and cleanup is around 10:30pm! This is because the town requires everything to be cleaned up and off the beach by 11pm.
Can I bring food/party decorations to my Bonfire? 🎉
Absolutely! So long as you are aware that you are responsible for set up and clean up of the items you bring, you are more than welcome to bring additional items to your Bonfire.
Can my dog come to my Bonfire? 🐾
Yes! So long as you clean up after them, dogs are allowed on the beach after 5pm but must have a Dewey Beach town license. 3 day, 8 day and lifetime licenses are available at Dewey Beach Town Hall. Dewey Beach Surf Shop is not responsible for any fines incurred should you disregard this policy.
Can I drink alcohol on the beach? 🍻
Alcohol and glass containers are strictly prohibited on the beach between May 15 and September 15. Dewey Beach Surf Shop is not responsible for any fines incurred should you disregard this policy.
Can I have a band perform at my Bonfire? 🎤
Unfortunately live bands and performances are not permitted on the beach in Dewey Beach, year round.
I’m hosting a Bonfire and I need to buy firewood. Can I purchase firewood from you? 🪵
Wood is included in your Bonfire booking, but we do not sell wood otherwise.
I’m not in Dewey. Do you travel?
No, we only offer our services within the town limits of Dewey Beach.
Why do you need my email and my phone number?
All correspondence leading up to your bonfire is done via email. Because we get a high volume of bonfire requests, email correspondence helps us stay organized. Although we ask you to provide a phone number when you book with us, this is just for the day of your bonfire if we have trouble finding you on the beach.
I submitted a deposit, paid in full, or confirmed a booking online, what do I do next?
You MUST show up at your requested start time (established via email at time of booking) because we cannot leave bonfires unattended on the beach. We often have more than one bonfire per night and need to be sure we get to everyone on time.
Please feel free to bring what you need to make your time on the beach more comfortable without bothering other beach goers. Dewey Beach Surf Shop is responsible for cleaning up the bonfire and the add-ons we provide. We are NOT responsible for cleaning up any mess made on the beach regarding trash, decorations, food, etc. If you leave a mess on the beach, we may reach out about additional fees!
What if I need to cancel? ❌
We require being notified at least 36 hours before your bonfire date/time to cancel the request and provide a refund. Same day cancellations and/or no-shows do not receive a refund or a reschedule.
What if I need to reschedule?
We can accommodate rescheduling, however we can not always guarantee the street/time you originally booked. We work off the scheduling from the Town of Dewey Beach, so if that requested date/location/time are already scheduled, we will work with you to find the best solution.
What if there is bad weather? ⛈️
In the event of rain or bad weather, we are happy to offer a refund or a reschedule should you contact us within the aforementioned time frame
If you decide to proceed with your Bonfire despite an "iffy" forecast and it ends up raining, we will not be able to offer you a refund or a reschedule. This is because we would have already provided our services to you.
Larger group? No problem!
Here are some photos from a few of the larger bonfire experiences we have provided





Just a few of you?
Here are some photos from a few of the more intimate bonfire experiences we have provided






We want your photos!
Be sure to share your photos with us via Instagram, Facebook or email!