Are you planning on taking a drive on the beach at the Cape Hatteras National Seashore on your next visit to the Outer Banks? Well be aware that privilege is no longer free.
The National Park Service announced yesterday that it will cost $50 for a seven-day permit and a $120 for a year to drive along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore.The fees were announced as the National Park Service prepares to put rules for access into effect Feb. 15.
There are of course rules which restricts driving to designated areas to protect shorebirds and vegetation on
the island. Beach drivers will also be required to watch a seven-minute instructional video before being issued their permit. Permits will be available beginning on Feb. 15 at three permit offices — Coquina Beach just south of Nags Head, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Visitor Center in Buxton and the Ocracoke Visitor Center. The offices will be open year-round, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The offices will even be open with hours on weekends and holidays during the summer.
the island. Beach drivers will also be required to watch a seven-minute instructional video before being issued their permit. Permits will be available beginning on Feb. 15 at three permit offices — Coquina Beach just south of Nags Head, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse Visitor Center in Buxton and the Ocracoke Visitor Center. The offices will be open year-round, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The offices will even be open with hours on weekends and holidays during the summer. An annual permit is valid for the calendar year and the seven-day permit is valid from the date issued."There will be a transition period between February 15 and March 15 before the rule is fully implemented and enforced," the park service said in a statement.
Answers to frequently asked questions can be found at www.nps.gov/caha.
