Expected to go into effect before the 2025 summer season kicks off, New Jersey has proposed a new bill that will change beach and ocean access fees.
What Does This Mean?
According to the New Jersey Tourism, Gaming and the Arts Committee, the Jersey Shore universal beach access bill “would prohibit a municipality from requiring a municipal beach tag or similar admission pass for access to the wet sandy beach below the mean high tide line, for an individual for the exclusive purpose of using the ocean for a recreational activity.”
At the bill’s second reading on February 13, 2025, the committee made two amendments:
- The bill will apply to all individuals going to the ocean below the average high tide line for recreational purposes.
- Update the bill’s synopsis to reflect the change to it.
What About Local Beachgoers?
The bill would get rid of beach admission passes at all Jersey Shore beaches. Anyone looking to go into the ocean to surf, fish, or swim would get free access.
Why?
New Jersey Assemblywoman Margie Donlon said to News 12 New Jersey that a September 2024 incident actually sparked the idea for the bill: Belmar police charged a surfer with disorderly conduct for not abiding by the city police’s orders. Residents began to question the need to pay for ocean access.
As for the bill’s purpose, “It’s not eliminate beach badge fees. The goal is to ensure clarity about the public trust doctrine from ocean access and possibly tidal water access moving forward,” Donlon said.
Make the move to the Jersey Shore or rent a home here for the summer! This new bill may be all the more reason to finally take that step. If you are considering purchasing or renting, feel free to reach out to The Connolly Agency at 732-361-0800 or stop by our Avon-by-the-Sea office anytime.
*Information courtesy of The Jersey Shore Girl*