WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, N.C. — The town of Wrightsville Beach announced it will be reopening its beaches as well as the sound side access Monday at noon, but it comes with a list of limitations.
>> Have questions about the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on the Carolinas? We have an entire section dedicated to coverage of the outbreak -- CLICK HERE FOR MORE.
According to our sister station WWAY, officials said strict social distancing guidelines must be followed while on the beach.
If the restrictions are not followed, it could lead to fines or another beach closure.
Guidelines:
- There will be no groups of more than 10 people
- No lifeguards on duty
- Sunbathing, sitting, fishing, games and all other activities will not be permitted on the beaches at this time
- All beach equipment such as towels, chairs, coolers and umbrellas are not allowed on the beaches at this time
- Dogs are not permitted on the beach
- Public restrooms will remain closed
- All parks will remain closed
- All Town-owned parking lots will remain closed to the general public
- All public, on-street parking spaces are now closed to the public for any use except where allowed as part of the State of Emergency Declaration.
This browser does not support the video element.
>> We’ll bring you LIVE updates on Channel 9 Eyewitness News. Get extended coverage on the free WSOC Now app on Roku, Amazon Fire and Apple TV.
The city said those who violate the beach restrictions could be charged with a misdemeanor, a $500 fine for each violation and they could have their car towed if they do not follow parking rules.
In addition, restriction violations could lead to another beach closure.
Other coastal cities in North Carolina started to lift restrictions over the weekend as well, according to our sister station WCTI. On Friday, Surf City began removing barriers to all public beach accesses.
[ ALSO READ: Crystal Coast beaches reopening to property owners, residents only ]
Atlantic Beach officials lifted the temporary restriction on recreational water Friday and Emerald Isle did as well on Saturday.
In Carteret County, the beaches are open only to residents and property owners, but are still restricted to tourists.
Governor Roy Cooper’s stay-at-home order is set to end on April 29.