FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions

Yes. It shall be unlawful within the sea turtle sanctuary for any person to willingly take, disturb or destroy any sea turtle, including green, hawksbill, loggerhead and leatherback turtles, or their nest or eggs. Furthermore, between May 1 and November 1 of each year, there shall not be allowed after dark any use of the sea turtle sanctuary other than pedestrian traffic, except that commercial fishing activities as specifically allowed by law shall be allowed. (§92.16)

Yes.

IMPORTANT NOTICE:  All sea turtle species found in the US are protected by state and federal laws. As such, it is unlawful for anyone to conduct work with sea turtles in North Carolina without authorization from the North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission (NCWRC) at (252) 241-7367.

All areas within the town limits above the mean low water mark of the Atlantic Ocean and extending therefrom in the direction of the primary dune a distance of 150 feet, are hereby declared to be a sea turtle sanctuary. (§92.15)

If you see any of the following, please contact the Emergency Hotline at 910-368-6323 immediately.

• Mama sea turtles – anywhere on or near the beach
• Emerging or wandering hatchling
• Stranded or injured sea turtles or terrapin
• Anyone handling a sea turtle or anyone being within nest protection zones