From what I understand, these new rules come into play in August, 2009, meaning after this date, there are no props allowed on a beach for a wedding, regardless of beach permits, etc. HOWEVER, in order to have the props before this date, special permits had to be applied for before November 30. My wedding is July 11, 2009. I already had a beach permit for the wedding but had to scrap that one to apply for a new one that allowed props, like chairs, a circle of flowers, etc. From what I understand the wedding planners are trying to take this issue to court, etc to try and reverse this decision, but I'm not sure what the result of this is just yet, or if any progress has been made. Hope this helps ladies